Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Human Factors
Date Submitted: Aug 12, 2024
Open Peer Review Period: Jul 29, 2024 - Sep 23, 2024
Date Accepted: Jan 13, 2025
(closed for review but you can still tweet)
Provider Perspectives on Use of Mental Health Apps, and the BritePath App in Particular, with Adolescents at Risk for Suicidal Behavior: A Qualitative Study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Many youths with significant mental health concerns have limited access to mental health services. Digital programs such as mobile apps aimed at addressing mental health concerns have the potential to increase access to strategies to manage mental health conditions. Few mental health apps are designed for youth with significant mental health concerns, such as suicidal ideation. BritePath is a new app aimed at enhancing communication and interaction between providers and youth who are at risk for suicidal behavior.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to understand providers’ opinions and concerns about use of mental health apps for youth with significant risk of suicidal behavior.
Methods:
We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with 17 providers in 7 states. Interviews were conducted by video, were recorded, and transcribed. Codes were developed through a team-based approach, with discrepancies resolved through team meetings.
Results:
Most providers had awareness of mental health apps in general and most would be interested in trying out the BritePath app with depressed/and or suicidal patients. Analyses identified four themes related to mental health apps in general. 1. Almost all providers reported that they saw mental health apps to be an adjunct to other mental health treatment and not a replacement for psychotherapy visits. 2. Most providers had concerns about the cost of apps and/or access to apps for youth in general. 3. Providers were concerned that many patients would become disengaged with apps over time. 4. Providers were concerned about patient privacy, both in terms of sharing data with app developers, and with data privacy within families. Analyses of providers’ opinions specifically about the BritePath app identified four additional themes. 1) Providers thought that access to safety plans in BritePath could be helpful for youth at risk for suicidal behavior. 2) Providers reported that the interactive nature of BritePath could allow increased communication between providers and youth. 3) Providers appreciated BritePath’s flexibility and the ability for youth and providers to tailor BritePath content to each youth. 4) Providers expressed concern about integrating BritePath into clinical workflows within health systems.
Conclusions:
Use of mental health apps is growing, yet little is known about how apps can best be integrated within mental health treatment. Providers are beginning to refer patients to mental health apps, and most providers were interested in trying the BritePath app for care of patients with depression and/or suicidality. However, providers report several concerns including concerns about privacy and safety. Clinical Trial: Not a trial
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