A Survey of Preferences for Sensing Technologies in People with Severe Mental Illness Admitted to an Acute Psychiatric Unit

Purpose

This study presents the views of patients admitted to an adult acute mental health unit due to an acute episode of severe mental illness, mainly of a psychotic nature, regarding sensing technology.

Methods

One hundred and twenty five adult inpatients were approached; 31 patients declined to participate whilst eleven patients were missed due to having been discharged from hospital or transferred to a different unit. Eighty three patients consented to participate and were administered a survey, previously validated in people with arthritis and other physical health conditions, about their preferences regarding sensing technology. The participants’ clinical presentation was characterised using standard clinical instruments.

Results

Ninety percent of participants were on antipsychotic medication and 78% were detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act 1983 of England and Wales. 67.9% exhibited elevated levels of ideas of reference and 61.7% presented a clinical level of persecutory delusions. Patients’ views about wearable digital technology were broadly positive and similar to those previously provided by people with arthritis and physical health conditions, with some specific differences. For example, they agreed to wear a device that is visible to others but less so to wearing one that is concealed in their clothing or implanted or for 24 h monitoring with the data being sent away, analysed or stored.

Conclusion

This study shows that those who are in the middle of an acute and severe episode of mental ill health are open to using sensing technology, with some specific requirements that would increase the uptake within this patient population. This research shows that this currently underserved patient population has a positive view with regards to sensing technology for healthcare purposes. These findings can inform the design of new wearable systems, which can address the unmet needs in this clinical domain.