Attitudes of the general population and mental health practitioners towards blended therapy in Austria.

Introduction: Mental health problems are steadily increasing worldwide. In Austria, the overall supply of mental health services is low, especially in rural areas. Mobile technology and a blended care approach have the potential to overcome problems with service provision. The aim of this study was to map the attitudes of practitioners and people living in Austria towards blended therapy.

Method: Two individual online questionnaires (including the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology, advantages and disadvantages, useful features) were distributed to practitioners and the general population in Austria.

Results: The questionnaires were answered by 152 members of the general public and 129 practitioners. The general population and practitioners seem to be cautious, but slightly positive about blended therapy. Previous experience of practitioners with blended therapy was low. Practitioners are most worried about the therapeutic process and their work-life balance, while the general population is worried about being overwhelmed by the concept, mainly due to the time investment. Tracking, recording and reminding functions (e.g., for mood, homework) were seen as especially valuable features and accessibility was deemed the biggest advantage by both samples.

Conclusion: Practitioners' attitudes are important for implementation of blended therapy. More awareness might help against the cautiousness as well as implementing digital health applications in Austrian health policies.