The report analyses evidence from 50 academic studies on remote mental health interventions carried out across 9 countries.
Key findings include:
- Remote forms of support can lead to positive outcomes amongst young people, including reductions in the severity of clinical symptoms, increased wellbeing, and lower levels of suicidality and stigma.
- Remote interventions improved accessibility for those who struggle to access face-to-face services, such as young men, young carers, young people with disabilities, those living in remote locations and LGBTQ+ young people.
- Many young people see remote support as more accessible than face-to-face services due to its flexible timing, shorter waiting times and no need to travel for appointments.
- Young people report that remote services feel safer than in-person support, and present less of a risk of stigma and judgement.
- Young people value the increased confidentiality and anonymity of remote services, and report that it helps them feel more in control of the therapeutic relationship.
- Remote interventions are not suitable for all young people, and should not replace face-to-face services – but can be effective when offered alongside in-person support.
The report has been produced to support community mental health and wellbeing services with service design and delivery.
Downloads
