A quantitative study exploring the acceptance of the eHealth model for mental wellness among digital workers

Abstract

eHealth makes use of information and communication technologies (ICT) to improve health. In the digital age, the use of eHealth applications and other health-related applications has gained popularity,particularlyduring theCOVID-19 pandemic. As a result of the pandemic, many uncertainties havearisen, causing stress andaffecting the mental health of many skilled workers in the digital industry, particularly in the ICT, computing, and creative media industries.eHealthapplicationshavethe potential to benefit people's health. As a prerequisite for effective implementation of eHealth for mental wellness (EHMW), this paper examines the acceptance of EHMW amongdigital workersin Malaysia. The objectives of this research are two-fold:1) To explore the acceptance of EHMW amongdigital workersin a localPremier Digital Tech Institution(PDTI), and 2)To explore how these talents' demographic profiles, mental health literacy and workplace wellness influence their acceptance of EHMW. Methods:This research surveyed41digital workerswho played vital roles in providing digital skills at a tertiary education level. Results:Mostrespondentsagreed that eHealthwas appropriate for managing mental wellness. Among the three eHealth domainsfor managing mental wellness, the acceptance level is the highest for the application domain of "interacting for health",with malerespondentsmore likely to accept the use ofEHMW. Conclusions:This small-scale survey could not fully examine theacceptance ofeHealth anditsusage patterns for mental wellness amongdigital workersin Malaysia. Future research will target moredigital workersin Malaysia.This research addresses the research gap ontheeHealth perspectives ofdigital workerson their acceptance,and the potential influence of demographic profiles, mental health literacy, and workplace wellness on EHMW's acceptance of digital health tools/platforms to promote their mental wellness.