A New Consistent Concept Between the I-change Model and the Transtheoretical Outcome to Imply the Leading Guideline of Depression Behavior Health Change Using Social Media

Abstract

Introduction The number of patients suffering from depression is growing. It has become a serious global public health issue affecting individuals of all ages, contributing to the primary causes of disabilities and suicides. Therefore, proper care and treatment for patients with depression have become unprecedentedly important. Objective The main objective of this study was to present a new, consistent conceptual model for changing the health behavior of patients with depression using social media by combining factors from the I-change model theory with the transtheoretical outcome of behavioral health change and to present guidelines that have implications for practice. Methods The research design is quantitative, in which data are collected from a questionnaire according to the proposed conceptual model. One hundred and eighty patients with mild and moderate depression who were aged 18 years and over were recruited using simple random sampling, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modelling. Results The results of the study from the perspective of patients with depression found that all elements of the I-change model information, awareness, motivation, intention, and action can explain the consistent relationship between the I-change model factors and the transtheoretical outcome, which represents a related relationship in terms of theory. Conclusion Based on the transtheoretical model, the results can be translated into practice for changing health behavior in patients with depression, which may lead to guidelines for designing and implementing treatments targeting behavior modifications in such patients, their caregivers, and other parties involved. Guidelines based on the findings of this study can help reduce the risks of the use of social media in such patients and provide psychiatric knowledge to those involved in the treatment processes. Such guidelines may improve the effectiveness of treatment programs targeting behavior change in patient care.