Work

Texting Support for Mental Health Care: A Scoping Review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Mobile phone text messaging (Short Message Service; SMS) interventions are digital health strategies that may support mental health care. This scoping review examined related study designs, outcomes, and gaps across the literature. Methods: Systematic searches identified 38 eligible studies from 1542 abstracts. Data were extracted and thematically analyzed to identify trends and outcomes. Texting interventions were categorized as cognitive, motivational, instrumental/practical, or combined approaches. Results: Study design included randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-experimental pilots and systematic reviews, with RCTs providing the strongest evidence for improvements in adherence and relapse prevention. Outcomes included behavioral measures (e.g., medication adherence, therapy homework completion, and reduced non-attendance) alongside clinical measures (e.g., symptom reduction and relapse prevention). Cognitive reminders that were most common reduced non-attendance and improved adherence, particularly for medication and appointments, although they were less effective in severe depression. Motivational and combined interventions demonstrated higher acceptability and engagement, particularly in adolescents and high-risk individuals. Success was influenced by diagnosis, age, gender, and social status, including adherence at baseline. Conclusions: Overall, text-based interventions were generally acceptable, accessible, and cost-effective for improving mental health engagement. Limitations included lack of long-term evaluations, technological barriers, and lack of personalization. Future research should address these gaps and include underrepresented populations.

Source: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph23091190

Authors: Fatima Tuz Zehra, Amjad Junaid Bin Faidh, Dougal Nolan, Abraham Rudnick

Institutions: Mount Saint Vincent University, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Hospital, National Guard Health Affairs, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Dalhousie University

Language: English

Topic: Mobile Health and mHealth Applications

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,016