Exploring Mental Health Issues through the Use of Blogs: A Scoping Review of the Research Evidence

Abstract

The aim of this scoping review of the available research evidence was to explore the experiences and perceptions of people with mental health difficulties through the use of blogs. A search of relevant electronic databases was undertaken from January 2009 to February 2019. Selected studies included people who blog about their mental health difficulties online. The PRISMA system was used to present the results of the searches. Following the application of specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final number of included studies was eleven. Following data analysis, the subordinate categories in the public category were moderation, confidentiality and boundaries. The subordinate categories in the private sphere included catharsis, enhanced coping strategies and social connectedness. The implications for mental health practice developments and research, are presented and discussed.