Provider Perspectives on the Use of Mental Health Apps, and the BritePath App in Particular, With Adolescents at Risk for Suicidal Behavior: Qualitative Study.

Background: Many youth with significant mental health concerns face limited access to mental health services. Digital programs, such as mobile apps designed to address mental health issues, have the potential to expand access to strategies for managing these conditions. However, few mental health apps are specifically designed for youth experiencing severe concerns, such as suicidal ideation. BritePath is a new app developed to enhance communication and interaction between providers and youth at risk for suicidal behavior.

Objective: This study aims to explore health care providers' opinions and concerns regarding the use of mental health apps for youth at significant risk of suicidal behavior.

Methods: We conducted individual semistructured interviews with 17 providers across 7 states. Interviews were conducted via video, recorded, and transcribed. Codes were developed using a team-based approach, with discrepancies resolved through team discussions.

Results: Most providers were aware of mental health apps in general and expressed interest in trying the BritePath app with patients experiencing depression, suicidality, or both. Analyses identified 4 key themes related to mental health apps: (1) almost all providers viewed mental health apps as an adjunct to, rather than a replacement for, psychotherapy visits; (2) most providers were concerned about the cost of apps and youth access to them; (3) providers noted the challenge of maintaining patient engagement with apps over time; and (4) providers were concerned about patient privacy, in terms of both data shared with app developers and data privacy within families. Analyses of providers' opinions specifically about the BritePath app identified 4 additional themes: (1) providers believed that access to safety plans within BritePath could be beneficial for youth at risk for suicidal behavior; (2) providers reported that BritePath's interactive features could enhance communication between providers and youth; (3) providers appreciated BritePath's flexibility and the ability for both youth and providers to tailor its content to individual needs; and (4) providers expressed concerns about integrating BritePath into clinical workflows within health systems.

Conclusions: The use of mental health apps is expanding, yet there is limited understanding of how to effectively integrate these tools into mental health treatment. Providers are increasingly referring patients to mental health apps, and most expressed interest in trying the BritePath app for patients with depression, suicidality, or both. However, providers also identified several concerns, particularly regarding privacy and safety.