Understanding the role of beliefs on intentions and actual usage of a tool for self-management of mental health among college students

Mental health issues are prevalent among college students, with digital interventions lacking in attempts to reduce participant attrition and address low engagement with technology. This study assessed changes in college students' beliefs regarding mental health after exposure to a digital mental health self-management coaching and education app, the Mental Health Evaluation and Lookout Program (mHELP). Participants' beliefs, measured using constructs from the Health Belief Model and Technology Acceptance Model, were compared to user engagement and changes in scores on validated scales for stress, depression, and anxiety. Participant beliefs including self-efficacy, perceived ease of use, and cues to action became more positive post-intervention. Higher participant self-efficacy indicated lower stress, anxiety, and depression ratings. Participants who believed stress to be a serious health threat and perceived the app as useful and easy to use were more likely to engage with the app. Providing digital mental health coaching showed significant relationships between students’ beliefs regarding mental health self-management, their engagement with the app, and the reduction in stress and anxiety.