Abstract
Objective: Inspire and partners have built an evidence base examining the role technology can play in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people at increased risk of developing mental health difficulties. This paper explores these findings collectively and considers how to best use information communication technologies (ICT) to meet the mental health needs of diverse young people aged 14–25.
Conclusions: ICT offers relevant and innovative strategies for young people at increased risk of developing mental health difficulties. Whilst many young people experience social isolation and stigma, the manifestation of these issues and the strategies required to address them vary. ICT-based programs will benefit from identifying which protective factors can be most positively influenced through the unique properties of ICT, amongst whom and how. Challenges to ICT-based health services include inadequate access and training, lower literacy levels and the need for specialized technologies for people with disabilities.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We would like to acknowledge all the young people, individuals and partner organisations who have collaborated with Inspire to produce the research projects presented in this paper.
DISCLOSURE
This research paper draws on research conducted by Inspire Foundation, the employer of all listed authors. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.