Exploring Content Preferences and Digital Mental Health Service Needs Among Socially Vulnerable Communities

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the widespread adoption of telehealth services, yet challenges persist in providing them to socially vulnerable communities. A comprehensive understanding of the implementation challenges of digital mental health in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is lacking, particularly in Brazil, where high rates of mental health impact and significant socioeconomic disparities are prevalent. Mental health platforms were developed during the pandemic, emphasising partnerships to deliver telehealth for vulnerable populations. These platforms included an online self-knowledge journey offering personalised feedback through videos, audios, and texts. Telephone interviews with 357 residents from these communities were conducted to gain insights into their interests regarding digital services. While most participants (61.9%) acknowledged the usefulness of digital mental health services, only a few (n = 15) had utilised them before, underscoring the untapped potential of telehealth for vulnerable communities. Participants showed a keen interest in apps and videos, data that must be considered when implementing telehealth services for this population. Younger participants (18–39 years old) showed a greater inclination towards digital mental health services (p < 0.001), while older adults (60 +) tended to prefer face-to-face interventions. Recommendations include tailoring digital mental health solutions for younger demographics and addressing health access disparities (e.g., through digital health literacy and hybrid approaches) among various population subgroups to facilitate effective telehealth implementation. Different profiles have varying needs that should be considered when implementing digital services. Overcoming the barriers to the adoption of telehealth is imperative for successfully executing these initiatives, especially in LMICs.