Users’ positive attitudes, perceived usefulness, and intentions to use digital mental health interventions: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background

Digital Mental Health Interventions (DMHIs) hold significant potential in addressing gaps in mental health treatment, enhancing mental health literacy, and mitigating associated stigma. However, DMHIs have not been systematically evaluated in terms of potential users’ attitudes, perceived usefulness, and intentions to use. Thus, this study aims to consolidate evidence to ascertain users' attitudes, perceived usefulness, and intentions to utilize DMHIs.

Methods

The meta-analysis reports adhere to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline. A comprehensive search of databases: Medline, CINHAL, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science, was conducted. As part of the screening process, Covidence database management software was used. Metaprop command was used to calculate the outcome using a random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane chi-square (χ2) and the index of heterogeneity (I² statistics) test. Sensitivity test and subgroup analysis were performed. Publication bias was examined by funnel plots and Egger's test.

Results

In total, 26 studies were analyzed, including data from 13,923 participants. The overall percentage of users' positive attitudes, perceived usefulness, and intentions to use DHMIs was 0.66 (95 % CI; 0.52, 0.79), 0.73 (95 % CI; 0.64, 0.81), and 0.67 (95 % CI; 0.6, 0.74), respectively. Significant heterogeneity was observed; nonetheless, sensitivity analyses indicated that none of the included individual studies exerted undue influence on the overall pooled prevalence. Assessment of funnel plots and Egger's test (p ≤ 0.895) showed no evidence of publication bias.

Conclusion

The results of this meta-analysis indicate that, overall, two-thirds of participants have a positive attitude toward DMHIs, around three-quarters find DMHIs useful, and around two-thirds intend to use them. The findings suggest the need to target users' positive attitudes, perceived utility, and willingness for the improved adoption and sustained use of DMHIs.