Development, expert validation, and pilot testing of digital mental health literacy program for Filipino college...

The growing number of mental health problems globally and in the Philippines, particularly among young adults, demands not just low-cost but effective and science-based interventions. This was especially needed in places where traditional mental health interventions were not easily accessible. This study reported the conceptualization, expert validation, and piloting feasibility and usability of a digital mental health literacy program for Filipino college students.

The development of the program was composed of three distinct but connected phases using the methodological framework of the Theory of Change model. Phase 1involved the development of program through the collaboration of university-based mental health professionals. The program was grounded in a causal model of the relationship between mental health literacy, help-seeking behavior, and psychological well-being among Filipino college students, and the mental health literacy framework of Anthony Jorm [1]. In phase 2, experts in the field validated the program's content using a researcher-made survey questionnaire. Phase 3 is pilot testing of the program to 10 participants; a focus group discussion was conducted to document user experiences, feasibility and usability of the program.

The program was a 12-module program with a 6-week duration and integrated three key digital components: psychoeducational videos, online group forums, and self-help modules. Thematic analysis was used in focus group discussions with 10 participants of the pilot study. Expert validation indicated high levels of content relevance and clarity, suggesting strong alignment with the objectives of the program. Three themes emerged in the thematic analysis of the focus group discussion: enhanced self-awareness, perceived program efficacy, usability, and barriers to engagement. Participants reported improved awareness and vocabulary regarding mental and emotional health due to its structured design. Participants also described the platform of the program as user-friendly, particularly appreciating its web-based and mobile app availability. On the other hand, recommendations for improvements were also identified, such as increasing the duration of the program, adding more personalized and interactive features, and ensuring the availability of peer support.

The findings provided preliminary evidence on the feasibility and usability of the digital mental health literacy program for Filipino college students. The pilot results indicated strong potential for implementation and further testing. Future studies with larger samples and more rigorous research designs were needed to examine the effectiveness of the program on mental health outcomes such as help-seeking behavior and psychological well-being.