Borghouts J, Eikey E, Mark G, De Leon C, Schueller SM, Schneider M, Stadnick N, Zheng K, Mukamel D, Sorkin DH. Barriers to and Facilitators of User Engagement With Digital Mental Health Interventions: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2021;23(3):e24387
The purpose of this systematic review was to identify common barriers and facilitators that influence user engagement with digital mental health interventions. All empirical studies that report qualitative and/or quantitative data on a digital mental health intervention among adults were included (N=208 articles). Studies evaluated user engagement through surveys, interviews, focus groups, randomized controlled trials, field studies, analysis of app data, and user reviews. The researchers extracted data related to the user, the program or content offered by the intervention, and the technology and implementation environment. Identified barriers included: severe mental health illnesses that hampered engagement, technical issues, and a lack of personalization. Facilitators included: social connectedness, increased insight into health, and a feeling of being in control of one’s health. These factors should be considered as guidance when evaluating interventions to improve engagement. In addition, this review can help develop targeted strategies to overcome barriers and successfully implement digital mental health interventions.