JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Co-production with users of new digital technology such as passive mood monitoring is likely to improve its utility, safety and successful implementation by improved design and consideration of how such technology fits with their daily lives. Mood monitoring interventions are commonly used by people with bipolar disorder (BD) and are a promising potential for digitization using novel technological methods.

Objective:

This study aims to explore how a passive behavioural monitoring platform RADAR – would meet the needs of people with BD by specifically considering purpose and function, diversity of need, personal preference, essential components and potential risks, harms and mitigation strategies through an iterative co-production process.

Methods:

17 people with BD were recruited via national charities and we conducted 3 online focus groups to take part in an iterative co-production process in line with responsible research and innovation principles and consideration of clinical challenges associated with BD. Data was analysed thematically.

Results:

Focus groups were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. 6 themes were identified: 1: purpose of using the app, 2: desired features, 3: when to use the app, 4: risks of using the app, 5: sharing with family and friends, 6: sharing with health care professionals.

Conclusions:

People with BD who are interested in utilising passive technology to mood monitor wish to do so for a wide variety of purposes, identifying a number of preferences and potential risks. Principally people with BD wished to use this novel technology to aid them to self-manage their BD with greater insight and better understanding of potential triggers. We discuss key features which may aid this functionality and purpose including crisis plans and sharing with others.