Soderlund PD, Martinez Hollingsworth AS, Heilemann MV. Participant Engagement in a Transmedia Storytelling Web-Based App Intervention for Mental Health of Latina Women: Qualitative Analysis. JMIR Ment Health. 2021;8(1):e22575. Published 2021 Jan 13. doi:10.2196/22575
In a previous study, researchers created an evidence-based, storytelling web-based app for mental health called “Catalina: Confronting My Emotions” to connect Latina women to mental health resources. The current study aimed to gain an understanding of participants’ experiences of the app with an addition to the story line of a Latina nurse-therapist character. The app included short videos about a Latina character (Catalina) and her difficulties in life, as she begins therapy with the nurse-therapist (Veronica). The storyline was intended to promote active participation involving reflection, dispelling old beliefs, and preparing an action plan. At the end of the program, participants received a curated list of mental health resources. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a sample of 28 English-speaking Latina women (21-50 years) with elevated anxiety and depression symptoms. Overall, participants reported the app was a culturally acceptable digital bridge that facilitated access to mental health care. The sample also was actively engaged in the videos and found the nurse-therapist character welcoming and trustworthy. Overall, the app was reported to be useful and acceptable for Latina women with depressive and anxiety symptoms.