JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

There is increasing need for peer workers (people with lived experience of mental health problems who support others) to work alongside consumers to improve recovery and outcomes. In addition, new forms of technology (tablet/ mobile apps), can deliver services in an engaging and innovative way. However, there is a need to evaluate interventions in real world settings.

Objective:

This exploratory proof-of-concept study aimed to determine if a peer worker led e-mental health recovery program is a feasible, acceptable and effective adjunct to usual care for people with moderate to severe mental illness.

Methods:

Six consumers, and five health service staff participated in the evaluation of a peer-led recovery application (app) delivered at a community-based public mental health service. Consumer evaluation measures at post-intervention included recovery, and views on the acceptability of the program and its delivery. Interviews with staff focused on the acceptability and feasibility of the app itself and integrating a peer worker into the health care service.

Results:

Both staff and consumers were highly satisfied with the peer worker and somewhat satisfied with the app. Health care staff overall believed that the addition of the peer worker was highly beneficial to both the consumers and to the staff.

Conclusions:

A peer-led technology-based program may be a feasible and acceptable method of working on recovery in this population. However, it is important to ensure familiarity of technology in the target population.