A web-based adolescent depression support system: feedback and implications for the future. (2nd April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Anttila, Katriina; Anttila, Minna; Välimäki, Maritta
• Is Part Of: Informatics for health & social care. Volume 45:Number 2(2020)
• Page Start: 111
• Page End: 129
• Publication Date: 2020-04-02
• Subjects: Adolescent -- depression -- feedback -- web -- mental disorders -- support system; Medicine -- Information services -- Periodicals; Medical informatics -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 025.0661
• DOI: 10.1080/17538157.2019.1656206
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1753-8157

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The aim is to describe feedback from the adolescents on their use of a web-based depression support system. Web-based support systems can serve as an alternative to conventional treatment or to complement the current services. Mixed methods were used to approach the topic from multiple perspectives. Feedback was collected from adolescents with symptoms of depression or anxiety. Adolescents (n = 46) responded to a questionnaire after participating on the support system, and 24 adolescents did not provide feedback. The data were analyzed with quantitative descriptive statistics and qualitative thematic analysis. Out of 45 adolescents, 93% agreed that the web-based support system was targeted at them, and 89% felt it was reliable and safe. It was perceived as a good channel for reflecting thoughts. However, some adolescents felt it was difficult to use or that using it did not help them. Ideas for development were also offered. Depis.Net provided the adolescents with a reliable way to ease their condition at home. Using feedback from the adolescents on the support system makes it possible to identify those who are able to use this kind of system in daily practice.