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Research Trends on Mobile Mental Health Application for General Population: A Scoping Review

Author

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  • Won Ju Hwang

    (College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea)

  • Ji Sun Ha

    (College of Nursing Science, Kyung Hee University, 26 Kyungheedae-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02447, Korea)

  • Mi Jeong Kim

    (School of Architecture, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Korea)

Abstract

Background: Scoping reviews of the literature on the development and application of mental health apps based on theoretical suggestions are lacking. This study systematically examines studies on the effects and results of mental health mobile apps for the general adult population. Methods: Following PICOs (population, intervention, comparison, outcome, study design), a general form of scoping review was adopted. From January 2010 to December 2019, we selected the effects of mental health-related apps and intervention programs provided by mobile to the general adult population over the age of 18. Additionally, evaluation of methodological quality was assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) checklist. Results: Fourteen studies were analyzed of 1205 that were identified; duplicate and matching studies were excluded. One was a descriptive study and 13 were experimental, of which randomized control trials (RCTs) accounted for 71.4%. Four of the mobile apps were developed based on cognitive behavior theory, one based on stress theory, and one on ecological instant intervention theory. These apps included breathing training, meditation, and music therapy. Stress, depression, and anxiety decreased using these apps, and some were effective for well-being. Conclusion: With the rapid development of technology related to mental health, many mobile apps are developed, but apps based on theoretical knowledge and well-designed research are lacking. Further research and practices should be conducted to develop, test, and disseminate evidence-based mHealth for mental health promotion. RCT studies are needed to expand the application to mental health services to various populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Won Ju Hwang & Ji Sun Ha & Mi Jeong Kim, 2021. "Research Trends on Mobile Mental Health Application for General Population: A Scoping Review," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-18, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:18:y:2021:i:5:p:2459-:d:509165
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Elizabeth Stratton & Amit Lampit & Isabella Choi & Rafael A Calvo & Samuel B Harvey & Nicholas Glozier, 2017. "Effectiveness of eHealth interventions for reducing mental health conditions in employees: A systematic review and meta-analysis," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 12(12), pages 1-23, December.
    2. Won Ju Hwang & Hyun Hee Jo, 2019. "Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Mobile App-Based Stress-Management Program: A Randomized Controlled Trial," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(21), pages 1-13, November.
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    Cited by:

    1. Won Ju Hwang & Hyun Hee Jo, 2021. "Development and Effects of Cognitive Behavior-Based Healing Programs Using Mobile Apps," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(7), pages 1-12, March.
    2. Won Ju Hwang & Mi Jeong Kim, 2022. "Toward Public Health Wellness: Psychosocial & Physical Health in the Community," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(9), pages 1-4, April.

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