Intention to use a mental health app for the menopause: a Health Belief Model approach (Preprint)

The menopause and menopause transition present a period of heightened vulnerability for mental health issues. Despite this, mental health screening is not consistently integrated into menopausal healthcare and access to psychological interventions is limited. Digital technologies, such as web and smartphone applications (apps) may offer a way to facilitate and improve mental healthcare provision throughout the menopause and menopause transition. However, little is known about potential users’ intention to use such technologies during this critical phase of life. To examine the factors that impact the intention of potential users to utilize a mental health app during the menopause and menopause transition. To accomplish this, we employed the Health Belief Model (HBM), a psychological framework widely used to understand and predict individuals' health-related behaviors. An online survey was generated using Qualtrics XM® and participants were recruited via social media and organic posts on relevant forums. Structural equation modelling (SEM) was conducted to explore whether the factor structure of the HBM is a good fit for predicting the intention to use a mental health app for the menopause. Data from 826 participants were analyzed. 74.09% (n=612) of respondents sought online help for mental health symptoms related to menopause. The most common topics searched for were symptom characteristics (52.66%, n=435) and treatment or therapy options (25.42%, n=210). Psychoeducation (62.23%, n=514) was the most desired mental health app feature, followed by symptom tracking (60.41%, n=499) and self-help tips (56.78%, n=469). 63.80% (n=527) of respondents stated that they would not be willing to pay for a mental health app. In terms of intention to use the app, the Satorra Bentler-scaled fit statistics indicated a good fit for the model (χ2(278)=790.44, p<0.001; CFI=0.933, RMSEA=0.047, SRMR=0.056), with cues to action emerging as the most significant predictor of intention (β=0.48, p<0.001). This was followed perceived barriers (β=-0.25, p<0.001), perceived susceptibility (β=0.15, p<0.001), and perceived benefits (β=0.13, p<0.001). Perceived severity (β=0.01, p=0.869) and self-efficacy (β=0.03, p=0.286) were not significantly associated with behavioral intention. This study reveals important factors that influence women's intention to use a mental health app during menopause. It emphasizes the need to address barriers to app usage, while highlighting the impact of credible endorsements and psychoeducation. Furthermore, the study underscores the significance of improving accessibility for users with lower digital literacy or limited resources.