Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with web-based mental health interventions in young people: a systematic review

Ho, Thi Quynh Anh; Le, Long Khanh-Dao; Engel, Lidia; Le, Ngoc; Melvin, Glenn; Le, Ha N. D.; Mihalopoulos, Cathrine

doi:10.1007/s00787-024-02386-x

Cited by 38Digital Mental Health InterventionsMental Health Treatment and AccessMobile Health and mHealth Applications

Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with web-based mental health interventions in young people: a systematic review

Open access

Ho, Thi Quynh Anh, Le, Long Khanh-Dao, Engel, Lidia, Le, Ngoc, Melvin, Glenn, Le, Ha N. D., Mihalopoulos, Cathrine·2025·European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry

DOI 10.1007/s00787-024-02386-xPMC PMC11805866

Open this paper in CoChat — free account Open PDF

Abstract

Many young people (YP) are diagnosed with mental illnesses and require support. Web-based mental health interventions (W-MHIs) have been increasingly utilized by YP, healthcare providers, and parents due to reasons including convenience and anonymity. W-MHIs are effective in improving mental health in YP. However, real-world engagement with W-MHIs remains low. Therefore, understanding barriers/facilitators of user engagement with W-MHIs is necessary to promote W-MHIs and help users gain optimal benefits through higher engagement. This review aims to identify barriers/facilitators of user engagement with W-MHIs in YP aged 10–24 years. A systematic search of five databases for English language, peer-reviewed publications was conducted between January 2010 and February 2023. Studies examining factors influencing user engagement with W-MHIs, described as barriers or facilitators, were included. Study quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A narrative synthesis was performed. Of 4088 articles identified, 69 studies were included. Barriers/facilitators were reported by young people (63 studies), providers (17 studies), and parents/caregivers (8 studies). YP perceived that usefulness and connectedness were the most common facilitators, whereas low-perceived need was the most reported barrier. Both providers and parents reported that perceived usefulness for YP was the most common facilitator, whereas concerns about program effectiveness and privacy were noted as barriers. This review found that program- and individual-related factors were important determinants of engagement with W-MHIs. This review provides guidance on the future design and development of new interventions, narrowing the gap between existing W-MHIs and unmet needs of users.

The claims and statistics of this paper haven’t been checked yet.

Run the check — free, no account needed. It reads the open-access text and checks the sources it cites.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1007/s00787-024-02386-x

Cites

124 of 124 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Claims the paper makes

The claims and statistics of this paper haven’t been checked yet.

Run the check — free, no account needed. It reads the open-access text and checks the sources it cites.

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

Previous research has largely focused on user experience with specific interventions or broader perceptions of digital mental health care, capturing factors influencing initial uptake but potentially overlooking those influencing continued use of digital mental health interventions, particularly for W-MHIs.
“Previous research has largely focused on user experience with specific interventions or broader perceptions of digital mental health care, capturing factors influencing initial uptake but potentially overlooking those influencing continued use of digital mental health interventions, particularly for W-MHIs [15–18].”
From Young People’s Barriers and Facilitators of Engagement with Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Qualitative Study (2024) · cites this paper as [17]
Split into 2 atoms — 0 confirmed, 2 partially supported, 0 disputed, 0 misattributed, 0 unverifiable. Expand the claim to see per-atom verdicts.
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Barriers/facilitators can be related to individuals (e.g., perceptions of mental health help-seeking) and interventions (e.g., non-appealing interfaces).
“Barriers/facilitators can be related to individuals (e.g., perceptions of mental health help-seeking) and interventions (e.g., non-appealing interfaces) [15–18].”
From Young People’s Barriers and Facilitators of Engagement with Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Qualitative Study (2024) · cites this paper as [17]

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

The self-check needs the paper’s full text.

Using thematic analysis in psychology
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006) · Qualitative Research in Psychology · doi:10.1191/1478088706qp063oa · Cited by 194,414 · see citing works
The PRISMA 2020 statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews
Page, M. J., McKenzie, J. E., Bossuyt, P. M., Boutron, I., Hoffmann, T. C., Mulrow, C. D., Shamseer, L., Tetzlaff, J. M., Akl, E. A., Brennan, S. E., et al. (2021) · BMJ · doi:10.1136/bmj.n71 · Cited by 108,283 · see citing works
Lifetime Prevalence and Age-of-Onset Distributions of DSM-IV Disorders in the National Comorbidity Survey Replication
Kessler, R. C., Berglund, P., Demler, O., Jin, R., Merikangas, K. R., & Walters, E. E. (2005) · Archives of General Psychiatry · doi:10.1001/archpsyc.62.6.593 · Cited by 20,391 · see citing works
Interrater reliability: The kappa statistic
McHugh, M. L. (2012) · Biochemia Medica · doi:10.11613/bm.2012.031 · Cited by 19,877 · see citing works
Methods for the thematic synthesis of qualitative research in systematic reviews
Thomas, J., & Harden, A. (2008) · BMC Medical Research Methodology · doi:10.1186/1471-2288-8-45 · Cited by 9,312 · see citing works
New Environmental Theories: Toward a Coherent Theory of Environmentally Significant Behavior
Stern, P. C. (2000) · Journal of Social Issues · doi:10.1111/0022-4537.00175 · Cited by 8,682 · see citing works
The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) version 2018 for information professionals and researchers
Hong, Q. N., Fàbregues, S., Bartlett, G., Boardman, F., Cargo, M., Dagenais, P., Gagnon, M.-P., Griffiths, F., Nicolau, B., O’Cathain, A., et al. (2018) · Education for Information · doi:10.3233/efi-180221 · Cited by 4,737 · cited 3× · see citing works
“As this review included empirical studies only, we decided not to use the two screening questions [34].”
Computer-based psychological treatments for depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Richards, D., & Richardson, T. (2012) · Clinical Psychology Review · doi:10.1016/j.cpr.2012.02.004 · Cited by 1,442 · see citing works
Testing the reliability and efficiency of the pilot Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for systematic mixed studies review
Pace, R., Pluye, P., Bartlett, G., Macaulay, A. C., Salsberg, J., Jagosh, J., & Seller, R. (2012) · International Journal of Nursing Studies · doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2011.07.002 · Cited by 1,331 · see citing works
Conceptualising engagement with digital behaviour change interventions: A systematic review using principles from critical interpretive synthesis
Perski, O., Blandford, A., West, R., & Michie, S. (2017) · Translational Behavioral Medicine · doi:10.1007/s13142-016-0453-1 · Cited by 1,193 · see citing works
Why do children and adolescents (not) seek and access professional help for their mental health problems? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies
Radez, J., Reardon, T., Creswell, C., Lawrence, P. J., Evdoka-Burton, G., & Waite, P. (2021) · European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry · doi:10.1007/s00787-019-01469-4 · Cited by 1,119 · cited 2× · see citing works
“This aligns with previous studies, that identified therapist support as one of the leading facilitators of seeking mental health help [6] and thus, enhancing engagement with online mental health programs [125].”
Understanding and Promoting Effective Engagement With Digital Behavior Change Interventions
Yardley, L., Spring, B. J., Riper, H., Morrison, L. G., Crane, D. H., Curtis, K., Merchant, G. C., Naughton, F., & Blandford, A. (2016) · American Journal of Preventive Medicine · doi:10.1016/j.amepre.2016.06.015 · Cited by 1,118 · see citing works
Improving the usefulness of a tool for appraising the quality of qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods studies, the <scp>Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool</scp> ( <scp>MMAT</scp> )
Hong, Q. N., Gonzalez‐Reyes, A., & Pluye, P. (2018) · Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice · doi:10.1111/jep.12884 · Cited by 1,107 · see citing works
Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with digital mental health interventions: Systematic review
Borghouts, J., Eikey, E., Mark, G., De Leon, C., Schueller, S. M., Schneider, M., Stadnick, N., Zheng, K., Mukamel, D., & Sorkin, D. H. (2021) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/24387 · Cited by 1,069 · cited 4× · see citing works
“User engagement with W-MHIs has been more commonly examined than mental health apps [12, 13].”
Influential
Computer therapy for the anxiety and depression disorders is effective, acceptable and practical health care: An updated meta-analysis
Andrews, G., Basu, A., Cuijpers, P., Craske, M. G., McEvoy, P., English, C. L., & Newby, J. M. (2018) · Journal of Anxiety Disorders · doi:10.1016/j.janxdis.2018.01.001 · Cited by 922 · see citing works
The COVID-19 pandemic: the ‘black swan’for mental health care and a turning point for e-health
Wind, T. R., Rijkeboer, M., Andersson, G., & Riper, H. (2020) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2020.100317 · Cited by 782 · see citing works
What are the barriers, facilitators and interventions targeting help-seeking behaviours for common mental health problems in adolescents? A systematic review
Aguirre Velasco, A., Cruz, I. S. S., Billings, J., Jimenez, M., & Rowe, S. (2020) · BMC Psychiatry · doi:10.1186/s12888-020-02659-0 · Cited by 736 · cited 1× · see citing works
“However, several barriers impede YP in accessing professional mental health support, including financial costs, social stigma, negative beliefs about mental health services, and low mental health literacy [6, 7].”
Adult mental health disorders and their age at onset
Jones, P. B. (2013) · British Journal of Psychiatry · doi:10.1192/bjp.bp.112.119164 · Cited by 701 · see citing works
Understanding factors affecting patient and public engagement and recruitment to digital health interventions: a systematic review of qualitative studies
O’Connor, S., Hanlon, P., O’Donnell, C. A., Garcia, S., Glanville, J., & Mair, F. S. (2016) · BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making · doi:10.1186/s12911-016-0359-3 · Cited by 636 · see citing works
Internet-based psychological treatments for depression
Johansson, R., & Andersson, G. (2012) · Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics · doi:10.1586/ern.12.63 · Cited by 509 · see citing works
Evidence on Digital Mental Health Interventions for Adolescents and Young People: Systematic Overview
Lehtimaki, S., Martic, J., Wahl, B., Foster, K. T., & Schwalbe, N. (2021) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/25847 · Cited by 488 · see citing works
Engaging children and young people in digital mental health interventions: systematic review of modes of delivery, facilitators, and barriers
Liverpool, S., Mota, C. P., Sales, C. M. D., Čuš, A., Carletto, S., Hancheva, C., Sousa, S., Cerón, S. C., Moreno-Peral, P., Pietrabissa, G., et al. (2020) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/16317 · Cited by 408 · see citing works
What Works and What Doesn’t Work? A Systematic Review of Digital Mental Health Interventions for Depression and Anxiety in Young People
Garrido, S., Millington, C., Cheers, D., Boydell, K., Schubert, E., Meade, T., & Nguyen, Q. V. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00759 · Cited by 400 · cited 3× · see citing works
“Moreover, our findings about intervention-related factors largely mirrors Garrido et al.’s review, that identified the features liked and disliked by YP in online mental health interventions [21].”
Systematic mixed studies reviews: Updating results on the reliability and efficiency of the mixed methods appraisal tool
Souto, R. Q., Khanassov, V., Hong, Q. N., Bush, P. L., Vedel, I., & Pluye, P. (2015) · International Journal of Nursing Studies · doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2014.08.010 · Cited by 375 · see citing works
Challenges in Participant Engagement and Retention Using Mobile Health Apps: Literature Review
Amagai, S., Pila, S., Kaat, A. J., Nowinski, C. J., & Gershon, R. C. (2022) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/35120 · Cited by 343 · cited 1× · see citing works
“[16].”
Effectiveness of digital psychological interventions for mental health problems in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Fu, Z., Burger, H., Arjadi, R., & Bockting, C. L. H. (2020) · The Lancet Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30256-x · Cited by 336 · see citing works
Identifying barriers to mental health help-seeking among young adults in the UK: a cross-sectional survey
Salaheddin, K., & Mason, B. (2016) · British Journal of General Practice · doi:10.3399/bjgp16x687313 · Cited by 329 · see citing works
Effect of Engagement With Digital Interventions on Mental Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Gan, D. Z. Q., McGillivray, L., Han, J., Christensen, H., & Torok, M. (2021) · Frontiers in Digital Health · doi:10.3389/fdgth.2021.764079 · Cited by 305 · see citing works
Young students' use of the Internet for mental health information and support
HORGAN, Á., & SWEENEY, J. (2010) · Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing · doi:10.1111/j.1365-2850.2009.01497.x · Cited by 303 · cited 1× · see citing works
“For instance, Horgan et al. reported that a lack of trust in websites was a barrier to young students accessing online services [124].”
Prevalence and stability of mental disorders among young adults: findings from a longitudinal study
Gustavson, K., Knudsen, A. K., Nesvåg, R., Knudsen, G. P., Vollset, S. E., & Reichborn-Kjennerud, T. (2018) · BMC Psychiatry · doi:10.1186/s12888-018-1647-5 · Cited by 282 · see citing works
Young men’s attitudes and behaviour in relation to mental health and technology: implications for the development of online mental health services
Ellis, L. A., Collin, P., Hurley, P. J., Davenport, T. A., Burns, J. M., & Hickie, I. B. (2013) · BMC Psychiatry · doi:10.1186/1471-244x-13-119 · Cited by 222 · see citing works
Digital Mental Health Challenges and the Horizon Ahead for Solutions
Balcombe, L., & Leo, D. D. (2021) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/26811 · Cited by 197 · see citing works
In the digital age: a systematic literature review of the e-health literacy and influencing factors among Chinese older adults
Shi, Y., Ma, D., Zhang, J., & Chen, B. (2021) · Journal of Public Health · doi:10.1007/s10389-021-01604-z · Cited by 171 · see citing works
Digital health technology for use in patients with serious mental illness: a systematic review of the literature
Batra, S., Baker, R., Wang, T., Forma, F., DiBiasi, F., & Peters-Strickland, T. (2017) · Medical Devices: Evidence and Research · doi:10.2147/mder.s144158 · Cited by 169 · see citing works
Help seeking for mental health problems in an adolescent population: the effect of gender
Haavik, L., Joa, I., Hatloy, K., Stain, H. J., & Langeveld, J. (2019) · Journal of Mental Health · doi:10.1080/09638237.2017.1340630 · Cited by 163 · see citing works
Effectiveness of a Web-Based Cognitive-Behavioral Tool to Improve Mental Well-Being in the General Population: Randomized Controlled Trial
Powell, J., Hamborg, T., Stallard, N., Burls, A., McSorley, J., Bennett, K., Griffiths, K. M., & Christensen, H. (2012) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/jmir.2240 · Cited by 156 · see citing works
Acceptability and Utility of an Open-Access, Online Single-Session Intervention Platform for Adolescent Mental Health
Schleider, J. L., Dobias, M., Sung, J. Y., Mumper, E. E., & Mullarkey, M. C. (2020) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/20513 · Cited by 156 · see citing works
The emergence of digital mental health in low-income and middle-income countries: A review of recent advances and implications for the treatment and prevention of mental disorders
Carter, H., Araya, R., Anjur, K. I., Deng, D., & Naslund, J. A. (2020) · Journal of Psychiatric Research · doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.12.016 · Cited by 155 · see citing works
Uptake and adherence of a self-directed internet-based mental health intervention with tailored e-mail reminders in senior high schools in Norway
Lillevoll, K. R., Vangberg, H. C. B., Griffiths, K. M., Waterloo, K., & Eisemann, M. R. (2014) · BMC Psychiatry · doi:10.1186/1471-244x-14-14 · Cited by 150 · cited 5× · see citing works
“[45, 46, 48, 51, 53, 54, 56, 57, 62, 64–73], endorsed by 42–76% of participants [56, 65, 67, 69].”
Influential
Is there a trial bias impacting user engagement with unguided e-mental health interventions? A systematic comparison of published reports and real-world usage of the same programs
Baumel, A., Edan, S., & Kane, J. M. (2019) · Translational Behavioral Medicine · doi:10.1093/tbm/ibz147 · Cited by 143 · see citing works
Feasibility and effectiveness of a web-based positive psychology program for youth mental health: Randomized controlled trial
Manicavasagar, V., Horswood, D., Burckhardt, R., Lum, A., Hadzi-Pavlovic, D., & Parker, G. (2014) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/jmir.3176 · Cited by 131 · cited 9× · see citing works
“The lack of age-appro-priateness [46, 53, 55, 62, 68, 78, 79] and irrelevance (e.g., cultural difference [45], difficult tasks [46, 54, 56–58, 87 ], lengthy modules [ 58 , 60, 62 , 72,”
Influential
Feasibility of a Brief Online Mindfulness and Compassion-Based Intervention to Promote Mental Health Among University Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic
González-García, M., Álvarez, J. C., Pérez, E. Z., Fernandez-Carriba, S., & López, J. G. (2021) · Mindfulness · doi:10.1007/s12671-021-01632-6 · Cited by 117 · cited 2× · see citing works
“…of stigma Feeling safe (e.g., feeling secure [46, 50, 79] and not being judged [42, 53, 58, 77, 90, 98]) could enhance YP’s engagement with W-MHIs, whereas feelings of insecurity during the online mediation sessions [87] and anxiety stemming from past experience could impede user engagement [94].”
Logging into therapy: Adolescent perceptions of online therapies for mental health problems
Sweeney, G., Donovan, C., March, S., & Forbes, Y. (2016) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2016.12.001 · Cited by 116 · see citing works
An evaluation of 'Reach Out Central': an online gaming program for supporting the mental health of young people
Shandley, K., Austin, D., Klein, B., & Kyrios, M. (2010) · Health Education Research · doi:10.1093/her/cyq002 · Cited by 108 · see citing works
Are online mental health interventions for youth effective? A systematic review.
Zhou, X., Edirippulige, S., Bai, X., & Bambling, M. (2021) · Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare · doi:10.1177/1357633x211047285 · Cited by 107 · cited 3× · see citing works
“Higher level of engagement were generally observed in web-based applications compared to web-based self-help platforms [9].”
The Digital Psychiatrist: In Search of Evidence-Based Apps for Anxiety and Depression
Marshall, J. M., Dunstan, D. A., & Bartik, W. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00831 · Cited by 107 · see citing works
Adherence to the MoodGYM program: outcomes and predictors for an adolescent school-based population
Calear, A. L., Christensen, H., Mackinnon, A., & Griffiths, K. M. (2013) · Journal of Affective Disorders · doi:10.1016/j.jad.2012.11.036 · Cited by 105 · see citing works
University Students’ Views on the Perceived Benefits and Drawbacks of Seeking Help for Mental Health Problems on the Internet: A Qualitative Study
Chan, J. K., Farrer, L. M., Gulliver, A., Bennett, K., & Griffiths, K. M. (2016) · JMIR Human Factors · doi:10.2196/humanfactors.4765 · Cited by 103 · see citing works
The Effects of Nonclinician Guidance on Effectiveness and Process Outcomes in Digital Mental Health Interventions: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Leung, C., Pei, J., Hudec, K., Shams, F., Munthali, R., & Vigo, D. (2022) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/36004 · Cited by 94 · see citing works
Internet-Based Interventions for the Prevention and Treatment of Mental Disorders in Latin America: A Scoping Review
Jiménez-Molina, Á., Franco, P., Martínez, V., Martínez, P., Rojas, G., & Araya, R. (2019) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00664 · Cited by 85 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Less advanced technology development, limited resources [114], and paucity of research on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of these interventions in LMICs make it challenging to disseminate W-MHIs in these countries [74, 115–117].”
Large-scale dissemination of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for youth anxiety: Feasibility and acceptability study
March, S., Spence, S. H., Donovan, C. L., & Kenardy, J. A. (2018) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/jmir.9211 · Cited by 84 · cited 1× · see citing works
“Nevertheless, engagement remained low, with only 30% of YP completing at least three of 10 sessions in a web-based CBT program for anxiety [18].”
Closing the Mental Health Gap in Low-income Settings by Building Research Capacity: Perspectives from Mozambique
Sweetland, A. C., Oquendo, M. A., Sidat, M., dos Santos, P. F., Vermund, S. H., Duarte, C. S., Arbuckle, M. R., & Wainberg, M. L. (2014) · Annals of Global Health · doi:10.1016/j.aogh.2014.04.014 · Cited by 84 · see citing works
eMental Health Experiences and Expectations: A Survey of Youths' Web-Based Resource Preferences in Canada
Wetterlin, F. M., Mar, M. Y., Neilson, E. K., Werker, G. R., & Krausz, M. R. (2014) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/jmir.3526 · Cited by 81 · see citing works
Mental Health and Transitions from Adolescence to Emerging Adulthood: Developmental and Diversity Considerations
MacLeod, K. B., & Brownlie, E. B. (2014) · Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health · doi:10.7870/cjcmh-2014-007 · Cited by 79 · see citing works
Economic evaluation of a guided and unguided internet-based CBT intervention for major depression: Results from a multi-center, three-armed randomized controlled trial conducted in primary care
Romero-Sanchiz, P., Nogueira-Arjona, R., García-Ruiz, A., Luciano, J. V., García Campayo, J., Gili, M., Botella, C., Baños, R., Castro, A., López-Del-Hoyo, Y., et al. (2017) · PLOS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0172741 · Cited by 78 · see citing works
Children's and young people's experience of the National Health Service in England: a review of national surveys 2001–2011
Hargreaves, D. S., & Viner, R. (2011) · Archives of Disease in Childhood · doi:10.1136/archdischild-2011-300603 · Cited by 76 · see citing works
The digital mental health revolution: Opportunities and risks.
Tal, A., & Torous, J. (2017) · Psychiatric Rehabilitation Journal · doi:10.1037/prj0000285 · Cited by 71 · see citing works
Determinants of access to health care for depression in 49 countries: A multilevel analysis
Araya, R., Pedro Zitko, M., Markkula, N., Rai, D., & Jones, K. (2018) · Journal of Affective Disorders · doi:10.1016/j.jad.2018.02.092 · Cited by 68 · see citing works
Common themes and emerging trends for the use of technology to support mental health and psychosocial well-being in limited resource settings: A review of the literature
Kaonga, N., & Morgan, J. (2019) · Psychiatry Research · doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112594 · Cited by 67 · see citing works
Feasibility, acceptability, and safety of the Recapture Life videoconferencing intervention for adolescent and young adult cancer survivors
Sansom‐Daly, U. M., Wakefield, C. E., Bryant, R. A., Patterson, P., Anazodo, A. C., Butow, P. N., Sawyer, S. M., McGill, B. C., Evans, H. E., Cohn, R. J., et al. (2018) · Psycho-Oncology · doi:10.1002/pon.4938 · Cited by 62 · see citing works
Strengths and weaknesses of the Young Black Men, Masculinities, and Mental Health (YBMen) Facebook project.
Watkins, D. C., Allen, J. O., Goodwill, J. R., & Noel, B. (2016) · American Journal of Orthopsychiatry · doi:10.1037/ort0000229 · Cited by 61 · see citing works
Guided internet-based transdiagnostic individually tailored Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for symptoms of depression and/or anxiety in college students: A randomized controlled trial
Karyotaki, E., Klein, A. M., Ciharova, M., Bolinski, F., Krijnen, L., de Koning, L., de Wit, L., van der Heijde, C. M., Ebert, D. D., Riper, H., et al. (2022) · Behaviour Research and Therapy · doi:10.1016/j.brat.2021.104028 · Cited by 60 · cited 4× · see citing works
“[45, 46, 48, 51, 53, 54, 56, 57, 62, 64–73], endorsed by 42–76% of participants [56, 65, 67, 69].”
Influential
Examining the initial usability, acceptability and feasibility of a digital mental health intervention for college students in India
Kanuri, N., Arora, P. G., Talluru, S. M., Colaco, B., Dutta, R., Rawat, A., Taylor, C. B., Manjula, M., & Newman, M. G. (2019) · International Journal of Psychology · doi:10.1002/ijop.12640 · Cited by 57 · see citing works
Including non‐English language articles in systematic reviews: A reflection on processes for identifying low‐cost sources of translation support
Rockliffe, L. (2021) · Research Synthesis Methods · doi:10.1002/jrsm.1508 · Cited by 57 · see citing works
A qualitative study of university students' experience of Internet‐based CBT for depression
Gericke, F., Ebert, D. D., Breet, E., Auerbach, R. P., & Bantjes, J. (2021) · Counselling and Psychotherapy Research · doi:10.1002/capr.12465 · Cited by 57 · cited 8× · see citing works
“[45, 46, 48, 51, 53, 54, 56, 57, 62, 64–73], endorsed by 42–76% of participants [56, 65, 67, 69].”
Influential
Single-session interventions embedded within Tumblr: acceptability, feasibility, and utility study
Dobias, M. L., Morris, R. R., & Schleider, J. L. (2022) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/39004 · Cited by 56 · see citing works
Technology acceptance and trust: Overlooked considerations in young people's use of digital mental health interventions
Sawrikar, V., & Mote, K. (2022) · Health Policy and Technology · doi:10.1016/j.hlpt.2022.100686 · Cited by 53 · see citing works
Online therapy: an added value for inpatient routine care? Perspectives from mental health care professionals
Sander, J., Bolinski, F., Diekmann, S., Gäebel, W., Günther, K., Hauth, I., Heinz, A., Kleiboer, A. M., Riper, H. M., Trost, N., et al. (2021) · European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience · doi:10.1007/s00406-021-01251-1 · Cited by 52 · see citing works
A Digital Intervention for Adolescent Depression (MoodHwb): Mixed Methods Feasibility Evaluation
Jones, R. B., Thapar, A., Rice, F. J., Mars, B., Agha, S. S., Smıth, D. J., Merry, S., Stallard, P. N., Thapar, A. K., Jones, I. R., et al. (2020) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/14536 · Cited by 51 · see citing works
Adolescent and parent experiences with a primary care/Internet-based depression prevention intervention (CATCH-IT)
Iloabachie, C., Wells, C., Goodwin, B., Baldwin, M., Vanderplough-Booth, K., Gladstone, T., Murray, M., Fogel, J., & Van Voorhees, B. W. (2011) · General Hospital Psychiatry · doi:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2011.08.004 · Cited by 48 · cited 5× · see citing works
“Other barriers included required internet access [65, 78] and a lack of fit (e.g., irrelevance [65], a lack of interactivity [93]).”
Influential
Prevention of Depression and Anxiety in Subclinical Adolescents: Effects of a Transdiagnostic Internet-Delivered CBT Program
Schmitt, J. C., Valiente, R. M., García-Escalera, J., Arnáez, S., Espinosa, V., Sandín, B., & Chorot, P. (2022) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph19095365 · Cited by 45 · see citing works
Mindfulness-based online intervention on mental health among undergraduate nursing students during coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Beijing, China: A randomized controlled trial
Dai, Z., Jing, S., Wang, H., Xiao, W., Huang, Y., Chen, X., Fu, J., Pan, C., Tang, Q., Wang, H., et al. (2022) · Frontiers in Psychiatry · doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2022.949477 · Cited by 44 · see citing works
Associations of LGBTQ+ identities with acceptability and efficacy of online single-session youth mental health interventions
McDanal, R., Rubin, A., Fox, K. R., & Schleider, J. L. (2022) · Behavior Therapy · doi:10.1016/j.beth.2021.10.004 · Cited by 43 · see citing works
Adolescent help-seeking for psychological distress, depression, and anxiety using an Internet program
Bradley, K. L., Robinson, L. M., & Brannen, C. L. (2012) · International Journal of Mental Health Promotion · doi:10.1080/14623730.2012.665337 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
Impact of a Web Program to Support the Mental Wellbeing of High School Students: A Quasi Experimental Feasibility Study
Anttila, M., Sittichai, R., Katajisto, J., & Valimaki, M. A. (2019) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph16142473 · Cited by 41 · see citing works
An Online Health Prevention Intervention for Youth with Addicted or Mentally Ill Parents: Experiences and Perspectives of Participants and Providers from a Randomized Controlled Trial
Woolderink, M., Bindels, J. A., Evers, S. M., Paulus, A. T., van Asselt, A. D., & van Schayck, O. C. (2015) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/jmir.4817 · Cited by 38 · see citing works
Feasibility and potential efficacy of a guided internet- and mobile-based CBT for adolescents and young adults with chronic medical conditions and comorbid depression or anxiety symptoms (youthCOACHCD): a randomized controlled pilot trial
Geirhos, A., Domhardt, M., Lunkenheimer, F., Temming, S., Holl, R. W., Minden, K., Warschburger, P., Meissner, T., Mueller-Stierlin, A. S., & Baumeister, H. (2022) · BMC Pediatrics · doi:10.1186/s12887-022-03134-3 · Cited by 37 · see citing works
“On my own, but not alone”—adolescents’ experiences of internet-delivered cognitive behavior therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder
Lenhard, F., Vigerland, S., Engberg, H., Hallberg, A., Thermaenius, H., & Serlachius, E. (2016) · PLOS ONE · doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0164311 · Cited by 37 · see citing works
Can We Foster a Culture of Peer Support and Promote Mental Health in Adolescence Using a Web-Based App? A Control Group Study
Wade-Bohleber, L., Crameri, A., Eich-Stierli, B., Telesko, R., & von Wyl, A. (2016) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/mental.5597 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
A next-generation social media-based relapse prevention intervention for youth depression: qualitative data on user experience outcomes for social networking, safety, and clinical benefit
Santesteban-Echarri, O., Rice, S., Wadley, G., Lederman, R., D'Alfonso, S., Russon, P., Chambers, R., Miles, C. J., Gilbertson, T., Gleeson, J. F., et al. (2017) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2017.06.002 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
Young People’s Satisfaction With the Online Mental Health Service eheadspace: Development and Implementation of a Service Satisfaction Measure
Rickwood, D., Wallace, A. M. R., Kennedy, V., O’Sullivan, S., Telford, N. R., & Leicester, S. (2018) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/12169 · Cited by 36 · see citing works
Transitioning from face-to-face treatment to iCBT for youths in primary care – therapists' attitudes and experiences
Weineland, S., Ribbegårdh, R., Kivi, M., Bygdell, A., Larsson, A., Vernmark, K., & Lilja, J. L. (2020) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2020.100356 · Cited by 34 · cited 4× · see citing works
“Yet, providers’ engagement can be impacted by a lack of established training and guidance [26].”
Influential
An age of uncertainty: mental health in young people
Lancet, T. (2022) · The Lancet · doi:10.1016/s0140-6736(22)01572-0 · Cited by 34 · see citing works
Exploring e-Mental Health Preferences of Generation Y
Mar, M. Y., Neilson, E. K., Torchalla, I., Werker, G. R., Laing, A., & Krausz, M. R. (2014) · Journal of Technology in Human Services · doi:10.1080/15228835.2014.943457 · Cited by 32 · see citing works
Understanding Users’ Continuance Usage Behavior Towards Digital Health Information System Driven by the Digital Revolution Under COVID-19 Context: An Extended UTAUT Model
Bai, B., & Guo, Z. (2022) · Psychology Research and Behavior Management · doi:10.2147/prbm.s364275 · Cited by 32 · see citing works
Teens engaged in collaborative health: The feasibility and acceptability of an online skill-building intervention for adolescents at risk for depression
Lattie, E. G., Ho, J., Sargent, E., Tomasino, K. N., Smith, J. D., Brown, C. H., & Mohr, D. C. (2017) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2017.02.003 · Cited by 31 · see citing works
Evaluation of ReachOut.com, an Unstructured Digital Youth Mental Health Intervention: Prospective Cohort Study
Kahl, B. L., Miller, H. M., Cairns, K., Giniunas, H., & Nicholas, M. (2020) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/21280 · Cited by 31 · see citing works
Investigating the potential of a novel internet-based cognitive behavioural intervention for Dari and Farsi speaking refugee youth: A feasibility study
Lindegaard, T., Wasteson, E., Demetry, Y., Andersson, G., Richards, D., & Shahnavaz, S. (2022) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2022.100533 · Cited by 30 · cited 10× · see citing works
“Mental illness symptoms (e.g., hopelessness, low energy) [45, 46, 91], insufficient understanding of mental health and available services [23, 43, 46, 47, 54, 58, 59, 64, 76–78, Trust or concern about the program and privacy Eighteen studies (29”
Influential
Feasibility and acceptability of “cuida tu Ánimo” (Take care of your mood): An internet-based program for prevention and early intervention of adolescent depression in chile and colombia
Martínez, V., Espinosa-Duque, D., Jiménez-Molina, Á., Rojas, G., Vöhringer, P. A., Fernández-Arcila, M., Luttges, C., Irarrázaval, M., Bauer, S., & Moessner, M. (2021) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph18189628 · Cited by 27 · see citing works
Young people's perceptions of and reasons for accessing a web‐based cognitive behavioural intervention for bulimia nervosa
Pretorius, N., Rowlands, L., Ringwood, S., & Schmidt, U. H. (2010) · European Eating Disorders Review · doi:10.1002/erv.985 · Cited by 26 · see citing works
Usage activity, perceived usefulness, and satisfaction in a web-based acceptance and commitment therapy program among Finnish ninth-grade adolescents
Hämäläinen, T., Kaipainen, K., Lappalainen, P., Puolakanaho, A., Keinonen, K., Lappalainen, R. I., & Kiuru, N. H. (2021) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2021.100421 · Cited by 26 · see citing works
Acceptability of internet interventions for youth mental health in Vietnam
Sobowale, K., Nguyen, M., Weiss, B., Van, T. T., & Trung, L. T. (2016) · Cambridge Prisms Global Mental Health · doi:10.1017/gmh.2016.18 · Cited by 25 · see citing works
Generational Perspectives on Technology's Role in Mental Health Care: A Survey of Adults With Lived Mental Health Experience
Woerner, M., Sams, N., Nales, C. J. R., Gorstein, T., Johnson, M., Mosser, B. A., & Areán, P. A. (2022) · Frontiers in Digital Health · doi:10.3389/fdgth.2022.840169 · Cited by 24 · see citing works
Access and completion of a web-based treatment in a population-based sample of tornado-affected adolescents.
Price, M., Yuen, E. K., Davidson, T. M., Hubel, G. S., & Ruggiero, K. J. (2015) · Psychological Services · doi:10.1037/ser0000017 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Rural and Urban/Suburban Families' Use of a Web-Based Mental Health Intervention
Bunnell, B. E., Davidson, T. M., Dewey, D., Price, M., & Ruggiero, K. J. (2016) · Telemedicine Journal and e-Health · doi:10.1089/tmj.2016.0153 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Untitled work
(2010) · PubMed · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Moderated Online Social Therapy for Young People With Active Suicidal Ideation: Qualitative Study
Bailey, E., Robinson, J., Álvarez‐Jiménez, M., Nedeljkovic, M., Valentine, L., Bendall, S., D’Alfonso, S., Gilbertson, T., McKechnie, B., & Rice, S. (2021) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/24260 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Feasibility and clinical utility of a transdiagnostic Internet-delivered rational emotive and behavioral intervention for adolescents with anxiety and depressive disorders
Păsărelu, C.-R., Dobrean, A., Andersson, G., & Zaharie, G. C. (2021) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2021.100479 · Cited by 23 · see citing works
Virtually caring: a qualitative study of internet-based mental health services for LGBT young adults in rural Australia
Bowman, S. J., Easpaig, B. N. G., & Fox, R. (2020) · Rural and Remote Health · doi:10.22605/rrh5448 · Cited by 22 · see citing works
Role of Moderators on Engagement of Adolescents With Depression or Anxiety in a Social Media Intervention: Content Analysis of Web-Based Interactions
Windler, C., Clair, M., Long, C. E., Boyle, L., & Radović, A. (2019) · JMIR Mental Health · doi:10.2196/13467 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
Implementation of internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for pediatric obsessive-compulsive disorder: Lessons from clinics in Sweden, United Kingdom and Australia
Aspvall, K., Lenhard, F., Melin, K., Krebs, G., Norlin, L., Näsström, K., Jassi, A. D., Turner, C. M., Knoetze, E., Serlachius, E., et al. (2020) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2020.100308 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
Treatment delivery preferences associated with type of mental disorder and perceived treatment barriers among Mexican university students
Benjet, C., Wittenborn, A., Gutierrez-García, R. A., Albor, Y. C., Contreras, E. V., Hernández, S. C., Valdés-García, K. P., Monroy, I. R., Peláez Cedrés, A. J., Hernández Uribe, P. C., et al. (2020) · Journal of Adolescent Health · doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2020.01.025 · Cited by 21 · see citing works
Factors That Help and Hinder the Implementation of Digital Depression Prevention Programs: School-Based Cross-sectional Study
Beames, J. R., Johnston, L., O’Dea, B., Torok, M. H., Christensen, H. M., Boydell, K., & Werner‐Seidler, A. (2021) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/26223 · Cited by 20 · see citing works
Nurses’ experiences of the use of an Internet-based support system for adolescents with depressive disorders
Kurki, M., Anttila, M., Koivunen, M. H., MARTTUNEN, M. J., & Valimaki, M. A. (2017) · Informatics for Health and Social Care · doi:10.1080/17538157.2016.1269110 · Cited by 19 · see citing works
Capturing the Attitudes of Adolescent Males’ Towards Computerised Mental Health Help‐Seeking
Clark, L. H., Hudson, J. L., Dunstan, D. A., & Clark, G. I. (2018) · Australian Psychologist · doi:10.1111/ap.12341 · Cited by 18 · see citing works
Acceptability and feasibility of enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy (eCBT) for children and adolescents with obsessive–compulsive disorder
Babiano-Espinosa, L., Wolters, L. H., Weidle, B., Compton, S. N., Lydersen, S., & Skokauskas, N. (2021) · Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health · doi:10.1186/s13034-021-00400-7 · Cited by 18 · see citing works
Egyptian Students Open to Digital Mental Health Care: Cross-Sectional Survey
Mamdouh, M., Tai, A. M. Y., Westenberg, J. N., Shams, F., Jang, K. L., Badawy, A. A. E.-K., Elsawi, H., & Krausz, M. R. (2021) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/31727 · Cited by 18 · see citing works
Using the Behaviour Change Wheel to identify barriers and enablers to the delivery of webchat counselling for young people
Richiello, M. G., Mawdsley, G., & Gutman, L. M. (2021) · Counselling and Psychotherapy Research · doi:10.1002/capr.12410 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Peer coach support in internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy for college students with social anxiety disorder: efficacy and acceptability
Bautista, C. L., Ralston, A. L., Brock, R. L., & Hope, D. A. (2022) · Cogent Psychology · doi:10.1080/23311908.2022.2040160 · Cited by 17 · see citing works
Use and Appreciation of a Web-Based, Tailored Intervention (E-health4Uth) Combined With Counseling to Promote Adolescents’ Health in Preventive Youth Health Care: Survey and Log-File Analysis
Bannink, R., Broeren, S., Zwanenburg, E. J.-V., van As, E., van de Looij-Jansen, P., & Raat, H. (2014) · JMIR Research Protocols · doi:10.2196/resprot.2855 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
Online interventions to prevent mental health problems implemented in school settings: the perspectives from key stakeholders in Austria and Spain
Zeiler, M. D., Kuso, S., Nitsch, M., Simek, M., Adamcik, T., Herrero, R., Etchemendy, E., Mira, A., Oliver, E., Jones, M., et al. (2021) · European Journal of Public Health · doi:10.1093/eurpub/ckab039 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
Acceptability and feasibility of an online psychosocial intervention for Dutch adolescents with a visible difference: A mixed-methods study
van Dalen, M., Pasmans, S. G. M. A., Aendekerk, E. W. C., Mathijssen, I. M. J., Koudstaal, M. J., Williamson, H., Hillegers, M. H. J., Utens, E. M. W. J., & Okkerse, J. M. E. (2022) · Body Image · doi:10.1016/j.bodyim.2022.03.003 · Cited by 14 · see citing works
eMental health service use among Australian youth: a cross-sectional survey framed by Andersen’s model
Leech, T., Dorstyn, D., & Li, W. (2019) · Australian Health Review · doi:10.1071/ah19095 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
The acceptability of a therapist-assisted internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy program for the treatment of anxiety disorders in adolescents: a qualitative study
Smart, K., Smith, L., Harvey, K., & Waite, P. (2021) · European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry · doi:10.1007/s00787-021-01903-6 · Cited by 13 · see citing works
Rapid Evidence Review of Digital Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Adolescents With Depression
Ivlev, I., Beil, T. L., Haynes, J. S., & Patnode, C. D. (2022) · Journal of Adolescent Health · doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2022.01.220 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
Acceptability and feasibility of a gamified digital eating disorder early-intervention program (AcceptME) based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Nicolaou, P., Merwin, R. M., & Karekla, M. (2022) · Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science · doi:10.1016/j.jcbs.2022.06.001 · Cited by 11 · see citing works
SafeSpot: an innovative app and mental health support package for Scottish schools – a qualitative analysis as part of a mixed methods study
Punukollu, M., Leighton, E. L., Brooks, A., Heron, S., Mitchell, F., Regener, P., Karagiorgou, O., Bell, C., Gilmour, M., Moya, N., et al. (2020) · Child and Adolescent Mental Health · doi:10.1111/camh.12375 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Youths’ and Parents’ Experiences and Perceived Effects of Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Anxiety Disorders in Primary Care: Mixed Methods Study
Lilja, J. L., Ljustina, M. R., Nissling, L., Larsson, A. C., & Weineland, S. (2021) · JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting · doi:10.2196/26842 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
Barriers and facilitators of young people’s engagement with webchat counselling: A qualitative analysis informed by the Behaviour Change Wheel
Mawdsley, G., Richiello, M. G., & Gutman, L. M. (2022) · Counselling and Psychotherapy Research · doi:10.1002/capr.12528 · Cited by 9 · see citing works
A web-based adolescent depression support system: feedback and implications for the future
Anttila, K., Anttila, M., & Valimaki, M. A. (2019) · Informatics for Health and Social Care · doi:10.1080/17538157.2019.1656206 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
The Helpfulness of Web-Based Mental Health and Well-being Forums for Providing Peer Support for Young People: Cross-sectional Exploration
Banwell, E., Hanley, T., García, S. D. O., Mindel, C., Kayll, T., & Sefi, A. (2022) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/36432 · Cited by 8 · see citing works
Perceived Helpfulness of a Moderated Online Social Therapy Network for Young People Experiencing Social Anxiety
O’Bree, B., Walton, C. C., Bendall, S., Wilson, M., Valentine, L., McEnery, C., D’Alfonso, S., Álvarez‐Jiménez, M., & Rice, S. (2021) · International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health · doi:10.3390/ijerph18062796 · Cited by 7 · see citing works
Experience of Peer Bloggers Using a Social Media Website for Adolescents With Depression or Anxiety: Proof-of-Concept Study
Karim, S., Hsiung, K. S., Symonds, M., & Radović, A. (2021) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/26183 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
Acceptability and Feasibility of Stepped-Care for Anxious Adolescents in Community Mental Health Services: A Secondary Analysis
Wuthrich, V. M., Rapee, R. M., McLellan, L. F., Wignall, A., Jagiello, T., Norberg, M. M., & Belcher, J. (2021) · Child Psychiatry & Human Development · doi:10.1007/s10578-021-01291-7 · Cited by 3 · see citing works

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 1

[111]Pine R (2020) Teachers’ and health professionals’ attitudes towards adolescent mental health and digital mental health interventions. Adv Ment Health. 10.1080/18387357.2020.181416010.1080/18387357.2020.1814160 · DOI

Sorted by citations

The evolving field of digital mental health: current evidence and implementation issues for smartphone apps, generative artificial intelligence, and virtual reality
Torous, J., Linardon, J., Goldberg, S. B., Sun, S., Bell, I., Nicholas, J., Hassan, L., Hua, Y., Milton, A., & Firth, J. (2025) · World Psychiatry · doi:10.1002/wps.21299 · Cited by 323 · see citing works
Young People’s Barriers and Facilitators of Engagement with Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Qualitative Study
Ho, T. Q. A., Engel, L., Melvin, G., Le, L. K.-D., Le, H. N. D., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2024) · The Patient - Patient-Centered Outcomes Research · doi:10.1007/s40271-024-00707-5 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
“Labels of codes were named based on barrier/facilitator subthemes identified in a previous systematic review [15, 17] and the interview guide.”
BackgroundMethodSelf-citation
Co-designing a new digital mental health platform, ‘Momentum’, with caregivers of young people aged 7–17
Ludlow, K., March, S., Russell, J. K., Ryan, B., Brown, R. L., Hides, L., Donovan, C., Spence, S. H., Saxby, J., & Cobham, V. E. (2024) · DIGITAL HEALTH · doi:10.1177/20552076241263693 · Cited by 7 · see citing works
Discrete Choice Experiment Versus Best–Worst Scaling: An Empirical Comparison in Eliciting Young People’s Preferences for Web-Based Mental Health Interventions
Ho, T. Q. A., Engel, L., Le, L. K., Melvin, G. A., Ride, J., Le, H., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2025) · Patient · doi:10.1007/s40271-025-00739-5 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
Self-citation
A systematic literature review of digital mental health interventions in providing support for children and their families
Chew, J., Frings, D., Reavey, P., & Allabyrne, C. (2026) · Digital Health · doi:10.1177/20552076251406323 · Cited by 4 · see citing works
Young People’s Preferences for Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Managing Anxiety and Depression: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Ho, T. Q. A., Engel, L., Ride, J., Le, L. K., Melvin, G. A., Le, H., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2025) · Applied Health Economics and Health Policy · doi:10.1007/s40258-025-00958-9 · Cited by 6 · see citing works
Self-citation
Payors, Caregivers, and Teens: Aligning Priorities for Effective Digital Mental Health Tools
Huberty, J., Yourell, J., Baez, L. M., & Salhi, L. (2025) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/72587 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Needs and Preferences of Swedish Young Adults for a Digital App Promoting Mental Health Literacy, Occupational Balance, and Peer Support: Qualitative Interview Study
Bäckström, M. K., Girdler, S. J., Milbourn, B. T., & Lexén, A. (2025) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/71563 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Brief digital mental health interventions for adults with emerging symptoms: part II. User experience outcomes based on a systematic review
Opie, J. E., Vuong, A. T., McIntosh, J., & Kuntsche, S. (2025) · Mental Health and Digital Technologies · doi:10.1108/mhdt-07-2025-0050 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Acceptance of online therapy for children and adolescents with digital media use disorders: perspectives from child and adolescent psychiatrists and psychotherapists in Germany
Büsch, K., ten Hoor, G. A., Paschke, K., Thomasius, R., & Arnaud, N. (2025) · European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry · doi:10.1007/s00787-025-02640-w · Cited by 2 · see citing works
User Personas for eHealth Regarding the Self-Management of Depressive Symptoms in People Living With HIV: Mixed Methods Study
Zhao, T., Tang, C., Ma, J., Yan, H., Su, X., Zhong, X., & Wang, H. (2025) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/56289 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Understanding Engagement With Digital Mental Health Technology in Mental Health Services: Multicenter Observational Study
Borgnolo, L. J., McKenna, S., Hickie, I. B., Varidel, M., Turner, A., Gorban, C., LaMonica, H. M., Chong, M. K., Capon, W., Dimitropoulos, G., et al. (2025) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/67597 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Feasibility of internet-based multimodal emotion recognition training in adolescents with and without autism: A pilot study
Olsson, N. C., Björkman, J. N., Lackell, R., Bergens, O., Fischer, H., Döllinger, L., Bergström, J., Carlbring, P., & Laukka, P. (2025) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2025.100861 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Digital Interventions for Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms in Adolescence: Systematic Review
Kuberka, P., Johnston, M., Shafran, R., Pike, K. C., & Yardley, L. (2025) · Journal of Adolescent Health · doi:10.1016/j.jadohealth.2025.05.021 · Cited by 5 · see citing works
Attitudes and expectations towards mental health interventions in the general population: Comparing face-to-face counseling, blended counseling, and digital or on-paper self-help
Witte, N. A. J. D., Buelens, F., Apolinário-Hagen, J., & Daele, T. V. (2025) · Clinical Psychology in Europe · doi:10.32872/cpe.16235 · Cited by 2 · see citing works
Evaluating ChatGPT-generated psychoeducation for mood disorders: comparative insights from patients and mental health professionals
Attanasio, F., Fazio, V., Antonini, C., Lanzano, N., Obumselu, G., Prato, M., Flutti, E., Pacchioni, F., Fregna, L., Franchini, L. A. M., et al. (2025) · Journal of Psychiatric Research · doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2025.11.039 · Cited by 3 · see citing works
Dealing with Diversity in Digital Psychological Interventions for Young People: A Structured Review
Jahedi, F., Henman, P. W. F., & Ryan, J. C. (2024) · ACI Open · doi:10.1055/s-0044-1788563 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Preventing eating disorders in the digital age: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial of the digitalized body project in university women
Melisse, B., Simeunovic-Ostojic, M., Bijsterbosch, J. M., Kiekens, G., Elburg, A. A. V., & Maas, J. (2026) · Mental Health & Prevention · doi:10.1016/j.mhp.2026.200494 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Digital Mental Health Promotion Services for Youth: A Qualitative Study of Help-Seeking Through Mindhelper.dk
Kusier, A. O., Dalsgaard, C., Hoffmann, S. H., Thygesen, L. C., & Folker, A. P. (2026) · JMIR Human Factors · doi:10.2196/91017 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Social media-delivered interventions to improve mental health in children and adolescents: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Zhang, Q., Sui, Y., & Cai, F. (2026) · Computers in Human Behavior Reports · doi:10.1016/j.chbr.2026.101336 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
Acceptability Study of a Blended Version of the Unified Protocol for Transdiagnostic Treatment of Emotional Disorders in Children: A Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Pereira, A. I., Cordeiro, D., Gomes-Pereira, B., Saraiva, M., Vicente, V. N., Paulino, B., Pereira, A. M., Perdigão, M., Oliveira, M. F., & Moreira, H. (2025) · Child & Family Behavior Therapy · doi:10.1080/07317107.2025.2515290
Adolescents’ preferences, experiences, and views of online programs for anxiety and depressive symptoms – qualitative study (Preprint)Preprint
Kuberka, P., Chilton, M., Pike, K. C., Shafran, R., & Yardley, L. (2025) · doi:10.2196/preprints.84384
Breaking mental health stigma: the impact of online reviews on the adoption of e-mental health platforms
Kerschbaumer, R. H., Danglmaier, A., Geier, S., & Wawrina, C. (2025) · International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Marketing · doi:10.1108/ijphm-04-2025-0046
Mental Health Outcomes of a Mobile App-Based Positive Psychology Intervention for Healthcare Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single-Arm Pre–Post Pilot Study (Preprint)Preprint
Ahmadi, N., Sasangohar, F., Jones-wood, S., Moskowitz, J. T., & Phillips, R. (2025) · doi:10.2196/preprints.90531
Digital Mental Health Promotion Services for Youth: A Qualitative Study of Help-Seeking Through Mindhelper.dk (Preprint)Preprint
Kusier, A. O., Dalsgaard, C., Hoffmann, S. H., Thygesen, L. C., & Folker, A. P. (2026) · doi:10.2196/preprints.91017
Bridging Barriers: Volunteer and User Perspectives on Delivery of a Multi‐Channel Digital Mental Health Helpline for Young People
Dhariwal, R., Song, M. S. H., Vukmanovic, N., Perowne, R., & Gutman, L. M. (2026) · Counselling and Psychotherapy Research · doi:10.1002/capr.70080
School and Community Stakeholder Perceptions of a Free, Confidential Digital Mental Health Platform (Soluna): Mixed Methods Study Examining Barriers and Facilitators to Real-World Implementation at Scale and Early Impact
Yourell, J., Huberty, J., Misch, R., & Salhi, L. (2026) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/82864
Social-support-aware dialogue recognition in mobile instant messaging online health communities
He, C., Liu, F., Huang, Q., & Wu, J. (2025) · Information Technology and Management · doi:10.1007/s10799-026-00485-6
A Payer Solution to Improve Access to Quality Behavioral Health Care
Sinoway, L. I., LeJeune, K., Sonntag, H., Henry, D., Singh, A. C., Chekroud, A. M., & Farah, T. G. (2026) · NEJM Catalyst · doi:10.1056/cat.25.0192
Adolescent and young adult use of Soluna, a free, confidential digital mental health and wellbeing platform: A statewide retrospective analysis in its first year (Preprint)Preprint
Yourell, J., Hedges, E. P., Misch, R., Huberty, J., Schueller, S. M., Waasdorp, T. E., & Salhi, L. (2026) · doi:10.2196/preprints.91312
‘It is just a prediction; it’s, like, not fact’: youth attitudes towards risk prediction tools and personalised preventive interventions for depression and anxiety
Higson‐Sweeney, N., Peycheva, A., & Breedvelt, J. (2026) · BMJ Mental Health · doi:10.1136/bmjment-2025-302327
Digital Solutions for Building Mental, Social, and Emotional Skills in Children: a Practice-Based Inquiry and Pilot Study
LeLeux-LaBarge, K., Klibert, J., Bennett-LeLeux, L., Rickert, N. P., & DiGregorio, N. (2026) · Journal of Technology in Behavioral Science · doi:10.1007/s41347-026-00640-4
Self-guided online ACT for women in menopausal transition: A randomized controlled trial of feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary outcomes
Kempe, L., Graziani, P., Terenzi, D., Auclair, A., & Iakimova, G. (2026) · Journal of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy · doi:10.1016/j.jbct.2026.100606
The definition and measurement of engagement and adherence for digital mental health interventions: an umbrella review
Yap, L. K., Ennis, E., Mulvenna, M. D., & Carracedo, J. M. (2026) · Behaviour and Information Technology · doi:10.1080/0144929x.2026.2696826
Adolescents’ Preferences, Experiences, and Views of 2 Online Programs for Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms: Qualitative Interview Study
Kuberka, P., Chilton, M., Pike, K. C., Shafran, R., & Yardley, L. (2026) · JMIR Pediatrics and Parenting · doi:10.2196/84384
Absence of digital intervention: exploring the motivations behind self-harm adolescents’ avoidance of psychological support techniques
Ye, H., & Minghui, Y. (2026) · BMJ Paediatrics Open · doi:10.1136/bmjpo-2026-004699
Developing a conceptual framework for digital health engagement: Insights from a hybrid review and qualitative validation
Mohapatra, A., Bhattacharya, S., & Misra, S. (2026) · Technological Forecasting and Social Change · doi:10.1016/j.techfore.2026.124849
Key Decision Points for Personalization and Customization in Self-Guided Digital Suicide Prevention: Qualitative Interview Study
Quan, Z., Chen, C., Popowski, S. A., Nguyen, T., Rushton, K., Reddy, M. C., Mohr, D. C., Orden, K. A. V., & Meyerhoff, J. (2026) · JMIR Formative Research · doi:10.2196/95930

Young People’s Barriers and Facilitators of Engagement with Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Qualitative Study
Ho, T. Q. A., Engel, L., Melvin, G., Le, L. K.-D., Le, H. N. D., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2024) · The Patient - Patient-Centered Outcomes Research · doi:10.1007/s40271-024-00707-5 · Cited by 15 · see citing works
Self-citation
PCR114 Young People’s Barriers and Facilitators of Engagement With Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Qualitative Study
Ho, A., Engel, L. S., Melvin, G. A., Le, L., Le, D., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2024) · Value in Health · doi:10.1016/j.jval.2024.03.1993
Self-citation
PCR103 Young People’s Preferences Towards Web-Based Mental Health Interventions for Anxiety and Depression: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Ho, T.-I., Engel, L. S., Le, L., Melvin, G. A., Le, D., & Mihalopoulos, C. (2024) · Value in Health · doi:10.1016/j.jval.2024.03.1982
Self-citation
Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with digital mental health interventions: Systematic review
Borghouts, J., Eikey, E., Mark, G., De Leon, C., Schueller, S. M., Schneider, M., Stadnick, N., Zheng, K., Mukamel, D., & Sorkin, D. H. (2021) · Journal of Medical Internet Research · doi:10.2196/24387 · Cited by 1,069 · see citing works
Adolescents' and youths' perceived barriers and facilitators to engaging with digital mental health interventions for depression and anxiety: A scoping review
Wanniarachchi, V. U., Greenhalgh, C., & Warren, J. (2025) · Internet Interventions · doi:10.1016/j.invent.2025.100884 · Cited by 10 · see citing works

Authors: Ho, T. Q. A., Le, L. K.-D., Engel, L., Le, N., Melvin, G., Le, H. N. D., & Mihalopoulos, C.
Affiliations: Deakin University (AU)
Monash University (AU)
Corresponding author: Ho, Thi Quynh Anh
ORCID: Ho, Thi Quynh Anh
Le, Long Khanh-Dao
Engel, Lidia
Le, Ngoc
Melvin, Glenn
Le, Ha N. D.
Mihalopoulos, Cathrine
Venue: European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Published: 2024-02-14
Volume: 34
Issue: 1
Pages: 83-100
ISSN: 1018-8827 (ISSN-L)
1435-165X
DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02386-x
PMC: PMC11805866
OpenAlex: W4391809139
Cited by: 38
References: 124
Citations by year: 2026: 17 · 2025: 18 · 2024: 3
FWCI: 2.32
Type: journal article
Language: en
Open access: hybrid
doi.org
Licence: cc-by
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 (tdm)
creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 (vor)
Locations: European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (publishedVersion, cc-by)
PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
PubMed (publishedVersion)
Figshare (submittedVersion, cc-by)
Funders: Deakin University
Topics: Social Sciences › Psychology › Applied Psychology › Digital Mental Health Interventions
Social Sciences › Psychology › Social Psychology › Mental Health Treatment and Access
Health Sciences › Health Professions › General Health Professions › Mobile Health and mHealth Applications
Keywords: user engagement, youth, barriers and facilitators, perceived usefulness, perceived need, privacy concerns, program effectiveness, parents and caregivers, adolescents, digital mental health
MeSH terms: Internet-Based Intervention, Adolescent, Mental Disorders, Child, Humans, Mental Health Services, Patient Participation, Young Adult

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

Are you an author, or do you see a problem with this page? Request a review

Barriers to and facilitators of user engagement with web-based mental health interventions in young people: a systematic review

Abstract

Integrity signals

Claims the paper makes

Claims other papers make about this one

Self-check

Cites

Cited by

Related

Record

About these checks