User perceptions and utilisation of features of an AI-enabled workplace digital mental wellness platform 'mindline at work '

BMJ Health Care Inform. 2024 Aug 17;31(1):e101045. doi: 10.1136/bmjhci-2024-101045.

Abstract

Background: The working population encounters unique work-related stressors. Despite these challenges, accessibility to mental healthcare remains limited. Digital technology-enabled mental wellness tools can offer much-needed access to mental healthcare. However, existing literature has given limited attention to their relevance and user engagement, particularly for the working population.

Aim: This study aims to assess user perceptions and feature utilisation of mindline at work, a nationally developed AI-enabled digital platform designed to improve mental wellness in the working population.

Methods: This study adopted a mixed-methods design comprising a survey (n=399) and semistructured interviews (n=40) with office-based working adults. Participants were asked to use mindline at work for 4 weeks. We collected data about utilisation of the platform features, intention for sustained use and perceptions of specific features.

Results: Participants under 5 years of work experience reported lower utilisation of multimedia resources but higher utilisation of emotion self-assessment tools and the AI chatbot compared with their counterparts (p<0.001). The platform received a moderate level of satisfaction (57%) and positive intention for sustained use (58%). Participants regarded mindline at work as an 'essential' safeguard against workplace stress, valuing its secure and non-judgmental space and user anonymity. However, they wanted greater institutional support for office workers' mental wellness to enhance the uptake. The AI chatbot was perceived as useful for self-reflection and problem-solving, despite limited maturity.

Conclusion: Identifying the unique benefits of specific features for different segments of working adults can foster a personalised user experience and promote mental well-being. Increasing workplace awareness is essential for platform adoption.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence; Online Systems; Public Health; Public health informatics.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Mental Health
  • Mental Health Services
  • Middle Aged
  • Perception
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Workplace*