The Acceptability of E-mental Health Services for Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: A Systematic Search and Review

This paper presents the findings of a systematic search and review examining the acceptability of e-mental health services for children, adolescents, and young adults and their parents and healthcare providers. Multiple databases were searched and abstracts were screened to determine if they met study inclusion criteria. Findings from included studies were synthesized within five dimensions of acceptability: satisfaction, client expectations, uptake, adherence and patient/provider experiences. Twenty-four studies were included, and findings suggest that although clients are generally satisfied with e-mental health and report positive experiences, adherence and uptake can be challenges. In conclusion, e-mental health appears to be an acceptable intervention option for children, adolescents, and young adults and their parents and healthcare providers. Further research is needed to better understand the effectiveness and acceptability of e-mental health for this population, including adherence, patient and provider experiences and integration into existing health systems.