Views of German mental health professionals on the use of digital mental health interventions for eating disorders: a qualitative interview study

Digital mental health interventions are therapeutic services for people with a mental disorder that can be delivered on electronic devices. They are getting increasingly important, as many patients have to wait long for a therapy. In eating disorders these interventions are still in early stages. Twenty-four telephone interviews were held with German professionals treating adolescent and adult patients with eating disorders. The aim was to understand their experiences, perspectives, and expectations regarding digital mental health interventions and to find out what is needed to integrate them into care in the future. In general, the interview partners showed positive attitudes towards these interventions. However, only few reported experiences and many obstacles were observed. The highest potential was seen for the use in addition to care outside the hospital setting and after treatment has ended. However, in case of a severe eating disorder, such as anorexia, or self-harm and suicidality, they were against the use of digital interventions. A stable personal relationship to their patients was seen as particularly important before recommending a digital intervention. Finally, the interview partners felt not informed in a sufficient way on the scientific basis and regulations regarding digital mental health interventions.