What is this research about?
A large number of Canadians are experiencing mental health challenges that may be linked to the COVID-19 pandemic. The use of digital interventions has become one way to support the mental health needs of Canadians, and these digital tools can help with managing access and capacity challenges for the mental health care system, given the continued need for social distancing.
The number of available digital mental health tools has grown to be quite large. However, many of the tools are not well known or are under-utilized in the delivery of mental health care. There is also no clear vetting and evaluation process to help people sort through the large amount of emerging online information in order to find tools to suit their needs and context.
The purpose of this research was to identify, synthesize, and mobilize knowledge related to digital interventions that the general population could use to support mental health during and after COVID-19.
What you need to know
Researchers conducted a rapid review of academic and grey literature as well as a stakeholder environmental scan to identify and synthesize knowledge on available digital mental health tools and interventions. The general population can use this research to support mental health during and after the pandemic. The researchers also aimed to uncover strengths, weaknesses and gaps in the interventions. The study uncovered a total of 31 mobile health apps and 114 web-based resources, which they have made available via web portal and shared widely.
Read this Research Snapshot to get a plain-language summary of this research, or download the pdf here.