What is the potential of digital aggregators to support the mental health of children and young people? Findings from a community survey in the UK

Background: Mental illness is a major global public health concern. With the doubling of referrals for mental health support in the UK, increased wait times for accessing care, and a rising number of individuals who are unable to secure timely support, online tools offer potential solutions. These tools can empower individuals to understand their symptoms better and offer people on waiting lists access to safe and appropriate support while awaiting professional assistance. Objective Investigate the attitudes and perceptions of young adults within the community regarding the necessity and potential efficacy of online resources in supporting mental health and overall wellbeing Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted to assess community members' attitudes and perceptions regarding using online resources for mental health and wellbeing support. The survey aimed to understand obstacles and motivations influencing the integration of these resources. CYP 16 to 34 in the UK were eligible to participate in the survey that was disseminated via social media and personal contacts. Results The study received 614 respondents. After exclusions, data was analysed from 547 participants. The majority of respondents (69.5%) valued mental health support, yet 85.6% experienced poor mental health, with 46.0% seeking professional help and facing waiting lists. While 65.6% were inclined to use online resources, satisfaction varied, and awareness of digital mental aggregators like "Health Place" was low at 3.3%. Conclusion The study reveals valuable insights into the attitudes of young adults towards online mental health resources, suggesting that online resources can complement traditional support systems, but improvements in accessibility and the quality of offered resources are needed. Overall, these findings can guide the development of more effective mental health support strategies, particularly for young adults, within the community.