Abstract
BackgroundWeb-based resources can support people with bipolar disorder (BD) to improve their knowledge and self-management. However, publicly available resources are heterogeneous in terms of their quality and ease of use. Characterizing digital health literacy (the skillset that enable people to navigate and make use of health information in a web-based context) in BD will support the development of educational resources.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to develop understanding of digital health literacy and its predictors in people with BD.MethodsA web-based survey was used to explore self-reported digital health literacy (as measured by the e-Health Literacy Scale [eHEALS]) in people with BD. Multiple regression analysis was used to evaluate potential predictors, including demographic/clinical characteristics and technology use.ResultsA total of 919 respondents (77.9% female; mean age 36.9 years) completed the survey. Older age (β=0.09; P=.01), postgraduate education (β=0.11; P=.01), and current use of self-management apps related to BD (β=0.13; P<.001) were associated with higher eHEALS ratings.ConclusionsLevels of self-reported digital health literacy were comparable or higher than other studies in the general population and specific physical/mental health conditions. However, individuals with BD who are younger, have completed less education, or are less familiar with mental health apps may require extra support to safely and productively navigate web-based health resources. Relevant educational initiatives are discussed. Future studies should evaluate skill development interventions for less digitally literate groups.
Highlights
Self-management, the process of monitoring and responding to the signs, symptoms, and consequences of an illness [1,2], is central to living well with bipolar disorder (BD)
Older age (β=0.09; P=.01), postgraduate education (β=0.11; P=.01), and current use of self-management apps related to BD (β=0.13; P
It may be expected that older age is associated with lower levels of familiarity and confidence with eHealth resources [27,39], there is evidence to suggest that the influence of younger age on digital health literacy is not observed in some physical illnesses [38,44,45,46]
Summary
Self-management, the process of monitoring and responding to the signs, symptoms, and consequences of an illness [1,2], is central to living well with bipolar disorder (BD). To do this effectively, individuals require information about symptoms, quality of life impacts, treatments, and effective wellness strategies [3]. Web-based resources can support people with bipolar disorder (BD) to improve their knowledge and self-management. Characterizing digital health literacy (the skillset that enable people to navigate and make use of health information in a web-based context) in BD will support the development of educational resources
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