Assessing the uses, benefits and limitations of digital technologies that are used by health professionals in supporting obesity and mental health communication: a scoping review. (Preprint)

Abstract

Obesity and mental health present interconnected public health challenges that impair physical, social, and mental well-being. Digital technologies offer potential for enhancing healthcare communication between health professionals (HPs) and individuals living with obesity and mental health issues, but their effectiveness is not fully understood.

This scoping review aims to identify and understand the different types of technologies that are used by health professionals in supporting obesity and mental health communication.

A comprehensive scoping review, guided by Arksey & O’Malley’s (2005) methodology, analysed literature from 2013-2023 across eight databases. Data extraction focused on HPs' use of communication technologies, intervention types, biopsychosocial considerations, and perceptions of technology use. The review question was: “What are the uses, benefits, and limitations of digital technology in supporting communication between HPs and persons living with obesity and mental health issues?”.

In total, eight studies met the inclusion criteria, featuring web-based platforms, social media, synchronous videos, telephone, automated SMS, and email. Technologies such as Virtual Learning Collaborative (VLC) dashboards and video conferencing, supported by automated SMS and social media Facebook and WhatsApp groups were commonly used. Psychologists, dietitians, social workers, and health coaches used digital tools to facilitate virtual appointments, diet and mental health monitoring, and motivational and educational support through group therapy, one-to-one sessions, and hybrid models. Benefits included enhanced access to care and engagement, personalised digital CBT, perceived stigma reduction, privacy, and improved physical health outcomes in weight reduction. However, mental health improvements were not significantly achieved. Limitations included engagement difficulties due to conflicting personal family and work commitments, variable communication mode preferences with some preferring in-person sessions, and misunderstandings of SMS prompts. Conflicts arose from cultural and individual differences, weight stigma, and confusion over HP roles in obesity and mental health care.

Digital technologies have diversified the approaches HPs can take in delivering education, counselling, and motivation to individuals with obesity and mental health issues, facilitating private, stigma-reduced environments for personalised care. While effective in obesity management, the review reveals a shortfall in addressing mental health needs. This highlights an urgent need for digital tools to act as mediums for a deeper engagement with individuals’ complex biopsychosocial needs. The integration of data science and technological advancements offers promising avenues for tailored digital solutions. The findings advocate the importance of continued innovation and adaptation in digital healthcare communication strategies, with clearer HP roles and an interdisciplinary, empathetic approach focused on individual needs.