Despite growing up with technology and the internet, young people of New Zealand have expressed a strong preference for in-person help when it comes to their mental health. 

Research led by the University of Otago, Wellington explored the views of people aged 15-30 on digital mental health supports. 

FINDINGS 

A survey was conducted online in 2022 and culled complete responses from 1,471 participants. 

Findings published in Health Expectations showed that nearly half of participants (44%) looked for mental health support online, primarily through websites. 

"[T]hey expressed a strong sentiment in favour of in-person support and the need for trustworthiness, high-quality, tailored supports and messaging, whether in person or digital," the researchers said.

Others sought them by watching videos on a popular video-sharing platform, using mobile mood trackers, or having video consultations with a professional.

Another interesting finding was that participants found text counselling and chatbots the least helpful. "[A]lthough more people had talked to a chatbot or used text counselling or self-help apps, they were perceived as less helpful. Chatbots were regarded as least helpful," shared study lead Sue Garrett in a media statement.

Meanwhile, the study also noted high interest among participants in seeking mental health support by listening to podcasts. "[P]odcasts may also be a new area of support to explore for this population group," the researchers said as part of their conclusion.

WHY IT MATTERS

In the same year as the above survey, the New Zealand Health Survey reported nearly a quarter of young people aged 15-21 dealt with high or very high levels of psychological distress in the middle of a global pandemic.

Digitising support helped expand access to care at a time when social restrictions were enforced to prevent the spread of the deadly COVID-19 disease. For example, the New Zealand Ministry of Health launched an online portal for the Access and Choice programme, which provides primary mental health and addiction services. 

In delivering digital interventions, a tailored approach – particularly co-designing with target individuals – was suggested in the University of Otago, Wellington research.

"Digital supports also need to be transparently trustworthy and reliable, and security concerns need to be clearly and effectively dealt with," it added.

THE LARGER TREND

The preference for in-person mental health care also aligns with Te Tāhū Hauora's recent findings, which showed that face-to-face appointments "overwhelmingly" dominate primary care in the post-pandemic era. Telehealth options have also lost their popularity in New Zealand.

As part of recalibrating its healthcare agenda, the New Zealand government recently pulled out funding for free telehealth services, including Covid Healthline, provided by NZ Telehealth Forum. Some funding for digital health initiatives, including big ticket ones like Hira, were also recalled to pay for upgrades in payroll IT.