Optimising Engagement with a Family Digital Mental Health Intervention
Presented by Ellen Welsh
Contributors: Prof. Jenn McIntosh, Prof. James Boyd, Dr. Zoe Cloud
Abstract
Systemic family therapy aims to improve mental health and well-being in the face of challenge, by optimising relational health between family members or people in close relationships. The potential of digital interventions for family mental health is under-explored. This study aims to understand the core principles that facilitate end-user acceptability and engagement with such a resource.
A modified Delphi study was conducted to identify key factors, barriers, and risks influencing family engagement with a digital mental health intervention. The eighteen participants comprised consumers (n = 5), family therapists (n = 8), and digital mental health professionals (n = 5). Participants completed online questionnaires over two rounds.
This presentation will share the findings of this Delphi study and highlight their implications for design of a family digital mental health intervention. Recommendations for future research include co-design with families to test ways in which the identified design principles can be addressed and implemented in practice.
Presenter
Ellen Welsh
Digital Operations Coordinator
Ellen holds a Master’s in Engineering, has a background in Software Development, and is currently the Digital and Clinical Operations Coordinator at the Bouverie Centre. Ellen has extensive experience in identifying a need for, developing and implementing digital systems in healthcare and research organisations. Ellen is currently undertaking a PhD in Digital Mental Health, designing a family-based platform. Ellen is passionate about improving access to mental health services through considered implementation and evaluation of contemporary and fit-for-purpose digital technology.
Useful links
Essential Design Principles for a Family Digital Mental Health Intervention: A Delphi Study
Design of Digital Mental Health Platforms for Family Member Cocompletion: Scoping Review
For more information
Contact: Ellen Welsh
Email: e.welsh@latrobe.edu.au