Perceived acceptability of wearable devices for the treatment of mental health problems

Objective: This study examined the potential acceptability of wearable devices (e.g., smart headbands, wristbands, and watches) aimed at treating mental health disorders, relative to conventional approaches. Methods: A questionnaire assessed perceptions of wearable and nonwearable treatments, along with demographic and psychological information. Respondents (N = 427) were adults from a community sample (M_age = 44.6, SD_age = 15.3) which included current (30.2%) and former (53.9%) mental health help-seekers. Results: Perceived effectiveness of wearables was a strong predictor of interest in using them as adjuncts to talk therapies, or as an alternative to self-help options (e.g., smartphone applications). Devices were more appealing to those with negative evaluations of psychological therapy and less experience in help-seeking. Conclusions: Interest in using wearable devices was strong, particularly when devices were seen as effective. Clients with negative attitudes to conventional therapies may be more responsive to using wearable devices as a less directive treatment approach.