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A Scoping Review of Technology/Digital Support Tools for Informal Mental Health Carers: Impacts on Well being and Experience
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

A Scoping Review of Technology/Digital Support Tools for Informal Mental Health Carers: Impacts on Well being and Experience

Felicity Walker, Christina Aggar, Michelle Bissett, James R Baker and Tina Prassos
Community mental health journal, Vol.Online first, pp.1-14
20/05/2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-026-01651-4
PMID: 42159940
Appears in  Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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A Scoping Review of Technology/DigitalView
Published (Version of record) Open CC BY V4.0

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Abstract

Informal carers Mental health conditions Self-accessible digital support tools Codesign Person-centred care
Introduction: Informal carers provide essential support to individuals with mental health conditions, yet often experience poor well being and limited access to traditional supports due to stigma, time constraints, and geographic barriers. Self-accessible digital tools may offer a flexible and scalable solution. This scoping review explores the impact of self-accessible digital support tools on the well being and experience of informal carers of individuals with mental health conditions. Methods: Five databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies (2015-2025) evaluating digital tools for carers of individuals with mental health conditions, excluding neurocognitive disorders. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria and were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results: Seven unique digital tools were identified (three mobile apps, four web-based tools). Professionally developed tools appeared to be associated with greater improvements in caregiver burden, emotional regulation, and quality of life. Codesigned digital tools were positively received for their flexibility and relevance, but had mixed clinical outcomes and engagement challenges. Discussion: Findings suggest that while digital tools can benefit carers, digital literacy, usability, and sustained engagement are critical factors. Codesign alone does not guarantee improved outcomes, particularly when user involvement is limited or underreported. Future research should further investigate codesigned interventions, with clear reporting of development processes and strategies that promote sustained use. Conclusion: Digital interventions can enhance the well being and experience of informal mental health carers, particularly those that are codesigned and multifactorial to address carer needs. Strengthening these tools has the potential to support carers and reduce systemic strain on mental health services.

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