Exploring the Barriers to and Motivators for Using Digital Mental Health Interventions Among Construction Personnel in Nigeria: Qualitative Study (Preprint)

Abstract

Work-related stress in the construction industry increases the prevalence of depression and anxiety among personnel. In low-resource settings such as Nigeria, construction personnel face high demands and severe working conditions but only have a few services to address their mental health needs. With emerging research showing that digital interventions can be used to self-manage mental health across diverse settings, there may be new opportunities to support construction personnel in the construction industry.

This study aims to determine the use of digital interventions for mental health management among construction personnel in Nigeria and to explore the factors that facilitate or impede the use of these interventions.

This qualitative study explored the perspectives of a convenience sample of 62 construction personnel. The data were subjected to inductive content analysis.

A total of 6 barrier and 3 motivator themes were identified and categorized into 2 groups. The barrier themes were subcategorized into barriers to adoption and barriers to persistent use, whereas the motivator themes were subcategorized into intrinsic and extrinsic motivators. Lack of awareness and knowledge about the interventions may constitute a barrier to adoption and use. Participants frequently reported concerns regarding their effectiveness and usability.

This study provides an understanding of the design needs required to facilitate sustained self-management of mental health based on the experiences and expectations of construction personnel with digital interventions.