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Internet search data and mental health: promises and pitfalls
ALEXANDRE LOCH;
Miranda Wolpert;
Lynsey Bilsland;
Elena Netsi;
Matthew Brown;
Gwydion Williams;
Shuranjeet Takhar;
Christopher Christofi;
Roman Kotov
ABSTRACT
Internet is now integral to everyday life, and users' online search data could be of strategic importance in mental healthcare. As shown by previous studies, it may provide valuable insights into individuals mental state, and can be of great value in early identification and in helping pathways to care. Internet search data can potentially provide real-time identification and alert mechanisms to timely interventions, for instance. In this viewpoint paper, we discuss the various problems related to the use of this data in research and in clinical practice such as privacy, integration with clinical information, and other technical challenges. We propose solutions to address these issues, and possible directions to follow.
Citation
Please cite as:
LOCH A, Wolpert M, Bilsland L, Netsi E, Brown M, Williams G, Takhar S, Christofi C, Kotov R
Promises and Pitfalls of Internet Search Data in Mental Health: Critical Review