Background:

COVID-19 has rapidly increased the proliferation of and reliance on digital mental health (DMH) services, necessitating patient electronic literacy (e-literacy) to access evidence-based treatments. E-literacy groups are predictive of DMH use in outpatient clinics; however, we are unaware of e-literacy groups conducted in inpatient settings. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of a novel DMH adult inpatient e-literacy group.

Methods:

Inpatients were invited to attend optional 1-hour weekly DMH group over 4-weeks. After each group, an anonymous voluntary survey was developed to assess the (a) perceived benefit of a DMH e-literacy inpatient group, and (b) interest, access, and use of mobile and web-based applications. Data collection is currently ongoing

Results:

The total sample (n = 19) was predominantly male (64.3%), White (42.0%), and middle to older age adults (51-69 years-old; 51%). Results indicated perceived benefit was higher in young to middle compared to older age adults. Reported interest, access, and use of DMH services was high, with no significant differences by age, race, or gender.

Conclusion:

The development of adult inpatient e-literacy programming should consider a patient-centered approach that accounts for developmental differences. Future research should account for variability across diagnoses, socioeconomic, and education level.