Digital Interventions for Psychological and Psychiatric Services: A Platform for Mental Health Care

Introduction: The Digital Integrated Platform for Psychological Support (DIPPS ) project seeks to improve mental health care by leveraging Information and Communication Technologies and Artificial Intelligence. Addressing the growing mental health crisis exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, DIPPS aims to enhance and support the accuracy, efficiency, and personalization of psychological and psychiatric assessments. Central to the project is the development of a comprehensive digital platform that enables remote evaluations, continuous monitoring, and self-management. By empowering patients and supporting clinicians, DIPPS promotes accessible and effective mental health care while contributing to advancements in personalized medicine. Methodology: As part of the project, a usability study evaluated the platform's user experience and functionality. Participants will test the platform by navigating its features and completing specific tasks from a predefined list. During the sessions, participants' actions and verbal feedback were screen-recorded to gather insights into usability. Particular attention was paid to participants’ verbal responses during the tasks, as this feedback is critical for understanding user experience. The study targets the refinement of a user-friendly web and mobile application with features for data collection and patient interaction. By incorporating user feedback, the project ensures the platform’s effectiveness and accessibility for diverse populations, ranging from adolescents to adults, in both clinical and community settings Conclusion: The usability study predicts that the platform will be easy to navigate, with most participants successfully completing tasks and mastering its features. Expected outcomes of the DIPPS project include enhanced patient care, improved adherence to treatment plans, and valuable data for ongoing research. By enabling timely interventions and fostering personalized care, DIPPS has the potential to transform mental health care delivery. The successful implementation of the platform will not only reduce the burden on healthcare systems but also contribute to a deeper understanding of complex psychopathologies. Ultimately, DIPPS will advance digital health solutions, setting a benchmark for future innovations in mental health care.