Howtostayfocused.org Addressing attention-related health problems in higher education with an eTool

Abstract

Abstract Background 20 to 30% of university students consistently report attention-related health problems (studenthealthcheck), such as depression, a less healthy lifestyle (e.g. alcohol/ drugs, sleep, etc.) or adhd. Students are healthcare avoiders and as such ideal candidates for eHealth. To sort out their attention problems, increase their knowledge and guide them to solutions, howtostayfocused.org/ has to be scientifically evaluated. Methods A qualitative study was conducted in 2019 at the Student Health Service of the UvA. A prototype eTool and interview guide were developed in accordance with CeHRes, contextual background and value specifications for attention-related issues. Semi-structured cognitive interviews were administered to students before, during and after completion of the Etool (i.e. think aloud method) (N = 9; 5 female; mean age 23.5) concerning its' system, content and service quality. (audio recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed). Results They were triggered to conduct the test and appreciated the personal advice that advanced the acceptance and confirmation of their complaints. the system: User-friendliness, lay out and abundance of information were appreciated. Improvements included technical errors, too much text provision, low visualizations, unclear navigation.the content: Although appreciative of the content, improvements included experience stories, study tips, information clarity.the service quality: Self-sufficiency has added value. (perceived usefulness) Soon after the launch of the eTool, it was used about 1000 times. Conclusions An eTool to address, clarify and analyze attention-related health problems among university students is considered of added value to meet their self-sufficient ways. They appreciated the personal advice from the test for the acceptance and confirmation of their attentional complaints. These results are of value for the development of other health-related web-based innovations for students. Key messages eHealth is a suitable way to address (attention-related) health problems that are common in university students, who are typically healthcare avoiding. The eTool contributes to prevention in the sense that university students may identify their attention-related health problems at an earlier stage and prevent aggravation of their complaints.