Mental Health Smartphone Apps: Review and Evidence-Based Recommendations for Future Developments

摘要: Background: The number of mental health apps (MHapps) developed and now available to smartphone users has increased in recent years. MHapps other technology-based solutions have the potential play an important part future care; however, there is no single guide for development evidence-based MHapps. Many currently lack features that would greatly improve their functionality, or include are not optimized. Furthermore, MHapp developers rarely conduct publish trial-based experimental validation apps. Indeed, a previous systematic review revealed complete evidence many hundreds available. Objective: To development, set clear, practical, recommendations presented create better, more rigorous Methods: A literature was conducted, scrutinizing research across diverse fields, including interventions, preventative health, mobile app design. Results: Sixteen were formulated. Evidence each recommendation discussed, guidance on how these might be integrated into overall design offered. Each rated basis strength associated evidence. It using behavioral plan interactive framework encourages user engage with app; thus, it may possible incorporate all 16 MHapp. Conclusions: Randomized controlled trials required validate principles upon which they designed, further investigate this review. Effective help prevent problems ease burden systems.