Dr Himanshu Gupta is a qualified physiotherapist and has a PhD in public health. Most of his work has been multidisciplinary, multistakeholder, multijurisdictional, and cross-national (India, UK, USA, Australia, and Sweden). Dr Gupta has been awarded about $5 million in research income by government, non-government, and Philanthropic organisations. Dr Gupta has contributed to evidence-based contemporary knowledge to support the health and wellbeing of Australians, primarily in the areas of addiction and mental health.
Psychotherapeutic digital interventions are increasingly important for addressing mental health disorders in the evolving landscape of mental health treatment. In a recent study, we provided insights into the role of digital mental health interventions on mental health outcomes in men. Below is an overview of our findings, organised as a Q&A.
Based on your study’s findings, what are the implications of psychotherapeutic e-mental health interventions with respect to the long-term outcomes of men’s mental health?
Digital mental health interventions may have multifaceted impacts mental health outcomes in men. In our systematic review and meta-analysis, we identified the following:
Short-term effectiveness: Internet-based interventions, in particular, those that are guided, have similar efficacy to face-to-face therapy for treating anxiety and depression in men. These interventions may lead to clinically significant improvements in mental health symptoms in the short term.
Long-term effectiveness: The research on long-term effectiveness of digital mental health interventions is in infancy. Some studies have indicated lasting effects particularly, when combined with ongoing support or follow-ups. However, effectiveness also varies with age, ethnicity, and cultural backgrounds, as well as the severity of initial symptoms. For instance, younger men who are more comfortable with technology might experience better long-term outcomes compared to older men.
Comparison with traditional therapy:
Traditional face-to-face therapy offers certain advantages, such as personalised interaction and the therapeutic relationship, which are considered crucial for long-term success in many cases.
On the other hand, digital interventions offer greater accessibility, flexibility, and can reduce the stigma associated with seeking help, which is particularly relevant for men who may be reluctant to engage in traditional therapy.
Gender-specific considerations:
Men may experience different barriers to accessing and engaging with both traditional and internet-based interventions. For instance, traditional therapy might be perceived as less accessible due to time constraints or social stigma, while internet-based interventions might be more appealing due to their privacy and convenience.
However, the effectiveness of these interventions may also depend on how well they address issues specific to men, such as masculinity norms, which can impact help-seeking behaviour.
As a mental health researcher, what role do you think cultural background and masculinity norms play in the effectiveness of psychotherapeutic e-mental health interventions on men’s mental health outcomes?
Cultural background and masculinity norms play a significant role in the effectiveness of digital mental health interventions in men. These factors can shape how men perceive, engage with, and benefit from these interventions.
Role of cultural background
Perception of mental health: Cultural attitudes toward mental health can affect men’s willingness to seek help. For example, in cultures where mental illness may be stigmatised or viewed as a sign of weakness, may lead to lower engagement with digital mental health interventions.
The cultural relevance of the content in digital interventions is crucial.
In some communities, limited access to technology or lower digital literacy may hinder the effectiveness of these interventions. Programs that incorporate culturally tailored content and are delivered in the user’s native language are more likely to be effective.
Trust and credibility:
Cultural mistrust of digital or mental health interventions can be a barrier. For example, men from minority or marginalised groups may be sceptical of mainstream mental health tools that do not reflect their lived experiences.
Successful interventions often involve community engagement and culturally sensitive design, ensuring that the tools are seen as trustworthy and relevant.
Role of masculinity
Masculinity norms and help-seeking: Traditional masculinity norms, such as the emphasis on self-reliance, emotional control, and toughness, can discourage men from seeking help, including through digital means. Men who adhere strongly to these norms may be less likely to engage with digital mental health tools. Digital tools that are designed with an understanding of these norms, by framing mental health care in a way that aligns with values like strength and resilience, may be more effective.
Anonymity and privacy:
Digital interventions offer the advantage of anonymity, which can be particularly appealing to men who fear stigma or judgment. This anonymity can make men more comfortable with seeking help without feeling that their masculinity is being questioned. Subsequently, it may improve the uptake of digital interventions. Tools that emphasise privacy and allow men to engage with digital mental health resources on their own terms can help overcome barriers imposed by traditional masculinity norms.
Engagement strategies:
Engaging men with digital mental health interventions often requires addressing masculinity directly. For example, interventions that use sports metaphors, gamification, or competitive elements can align with traditional masculine interests and thus may increase engagement. Programs that promote mental health as a way to enhance performance, whether in work, sports, or other areas, may resonate more with men who value traditional masculine ideals.
Overall, digital mental health interventions need to be designed with an awareness of both cultural and gender-specific factors to maximise their uptake and effectiveness for men’s mental health.
Pull Quote:
“Cultural attitudes toward mental health can affect men’s willingness to seek help. For example, in cultures where mental illness may be stigmatised or viewed as a sign of weakness, may lead to lower engagement with digital mental health interventions.”