Barriers to and enhancement of the utilization of digital mental health interventions in low-resource settings: Perceptions of young people in Uganda.

Abstract

Introduction: Digital mental health (DMH) enhances access to healthcare, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where investment in mental healthcare is low. However, utilization among young people (YP) is low. This study aimed to explore YP's perceptions of the barriers to the using of DMH interventions in low-resource settings.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Six face-to-face focus group discussions were conducted with 50 YP from nine universities in Uganda. The median age was 24 years (range 21-25 years) and respondents were drawn from diverse academic programmes with the majority being medical students (54%). A thematic approach was used to interpret the results.

Results: Three themes were identified from the data including perceptions of using DMH services, the perceived barriers to utilization, and suggestions for enhancement of DMH for YP in low-resource settings. Most respondents had a positive attitude towards DMH. The perceived barriers to utilization of DMH included the fear of stigma, affordability, inequitable access, privacy and confidentiality concerns, and app-related challenges. Access and use of DMH can be enhanced through public engagement, creating awareness, enhanced training, and access to affordable DMH interventions.

Conclusion: DMH was deemed important in extending healthcare to YP, particularly in health systems where traditional mental health services are not readily available. However, several factors hinder equitable access to DMH in low-resource settings. There is a need for long-term investment in digital health technologies.