Mental health apps: what you need to know

Almost 39% of women in Switzerland felt constantly or occasionally despondent or depressed over a period of four weeks in 2021. This figure is much lower for men – at just under 27% – as recent surveys by the Swiss Health Observatory show, but the figures clearly demonstrate that mental health is an increasingly urgent issue.

If the sheer explosion in mental health apps is anything to go by, people certainly appear to be taking the matter seriously, with looking after yourself seeming to be a widespread concern today. These digital aids are supposed to be able to recognise and interpret the users’ behavioural patterns, help them take a deep breath, let off steam and listen to their emotions. At least, that’s what they promise.

When distinguishing good offerings from bad ones, a first indication can be the ranking in the download charts. However, it is even better to rely on scientific efforts that give users tangible criteria. As part of a major literature study commissioned by the Federal Office of Public Health, researchers put together three factors that indicate quality. According to the study, well-made apps that are regularly used by users and contribute to behavioural changes typically ...

• … set individual goals that take personal needs into account.
• … observe behaviour and ask questions about it interactively.
• … provide immediate motivational feedback.

Such criteria provide a useful point of reference. Depending on your individual goal, however, it’s worth delving deeper.

Ask the expert: How good are mental health apps really?

Mr Berger, how motivated do I need to be for an app to have any chance of helping me?

An app only helps if it is actually used. In our research, we’ve found that people who have reached a certain level of suffering are more motivated to actually change and be supported by an app. If the level of suffering isn’t high enough, for example because you don’t really feel depressed, you won’t use an app. There’s just no reason to do so.

The level of suffering is quite a negative motivational factor. Is there a more positive way of thinking about it that might aid prevention?

The chance that an app will work well increases if a person has a positive association with it – in other words, if they believe that it can help them. And that they themselves can contribute to achieving this goal. But the desire to change has to be there. Basically, it’s a good thing that we can also use these less intrusive digital services to reach those who would never even consider consulting room therapy.

This is also what digital app manufacturers claim – but they often promise a lot.

If the range of indications is limited – that is, if it’s clearly spelled out in which specific area the app can help – then that’s a sign of quality. And are there contra-indications that even warn against the use of the app? For example, that the app is not suitable for acute suicidal crises. If the app promises to do everything, then it’s not worth taking seriously.

Is it at all possible to define general quality criteria for mental health apps?

Many apps try to scientifically prove that they have a benefit. However, the majority listed in the app stores do not. The Federation of Swiss Psychologists has developed quality standards for online interventions that can be used as a reference. In addition to clearly stated limits on what the app is suitable for, it is above all a question of transparency: Who is behind an app? What expertise? What costs will I incur? And then, of course, confidentiality and data protection: only data that is necessary to use the app should be requested – and of course it must not be passed on.

When would you advise against using an app?

If your condition deteriorates as a result of using it and you’re not supported by a professional. This can happen, for example, in the treatment of anxiety disorders or also occasionally in psychotherapy. Then it’s important that a professional is at your side.