Bernaerts S, Van Daele T, Carlsen CK, Nielsen SL, Schaap J, Roke Y. User involvement in digital mental health: approaches, potential and the need for guidelines. Front Digit Health. 2024;6:1440660. doi:10.3389/fdgth.2024.1440660
This opinion paper outlines how user involvement could be a method for increasing the implementation success of digital mental health interventions. User involvement remains an underutilized area of development, implementation, and adaptation of digital mental health interventions. Three primary methods of engaging users were discussed: user-centered design, participatory or co-design, and user innovation. User-centered design is the most reported approach; however, the authors suggest that co-design might be a better option for at-risk populations. Research addressing the outcomes of uptake and efficacy for interventions engaging in a co-design process is limited at best, with inconsistent measures and results. Generally, it suggests that the co-design process can identify potential barriers and bolster facilitators to uptake and engagement. Several arguments have been made for engaging uses when adapting interventions for specific populations. While this remains one of the most promising applications of user involvement, there is insufficient empirical evidence to support its utility or provide guidance for protocol development. The current literature is inadequate in determining appropriate guidelines or developing a framework for use with the complex power dynamics seen in co-design. Evidence-based guidelines for cultural and international adaptation of digital mental health innovations are necessary for future implementation success. In general, with more empirical evidence, the successful implementation of digital mental health interventions may be improved by focusing on tailored user-engagement strategies along the design and early implementation process.