ABSTRACT
Introduction
There is increasing interest in the use of mobile mental health applications (apps) to manage mental health conditions. Understanding user perceptions is key to maximise app engagement and inform how apps can be used to support mental health nursing care.
Aim
This integrative review explores consumers’ perceptions of mobile mental health apps to gain insight into user preferences and acceptability.
Methods
This integrative review was based on searching four databases: CINAHL, EMBASE, Medline, PsychInfo. Inclusion criteria were: (i) articles published after 2000; (ii) focused on apps for mental health disorders; (iii) explored consumers’ perception of using a mental health app. Abstracts were screened and eligible papers reviewed. Data on user perceptions were extracted and analysed thematically.
Results
Seventeen articles were identified. Overall, consumers did not feel that app use replaced traditional healthcare. Six themes were identified: ‘Helpfulness’, ‘Improvements/enhancements’, ‘Technical issues’, ‘Easy to use’, ‘Satisfaction with the app’ and ‘Perceived issues’. Consumers indicated a preference for personalisation for the app to meet individual needs.
Discussion and Implications for Practice
Mental health apps are generally viewed positively by consumers, however factors such as ease of use, usefulness of content and privacy need to be considered to maximise and sustain app engagement.