Huijun Li

Florida A&M University, USA

Mobile Mental Health Applications: New Emerging Trends and Key Challenges

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Biography

Huijun Li is a professor of the Department of Psychology at the College of Social Sciences, Arts, and Humanities, Florida A&M University. She received her Ph.D. in school psychology from University of Arizona in 2003. She has published 71 scholarly publications, two books and five book chapters, translated three academic books and autobiographies, presented 130 national and international presentations, and provided about 60 psychoeducation workshops. She is a member of the Editorial Board of Asian Journal of Psychiatry. She served as Vice Chair of the National Institute of Health Study Committee.

Abstract

Objectives and Scope

The growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) has introduced new areas of possibilities for research enhancements in the mental health field via mobile platforms, such as cell phones and tablets. AI-integrated mobile health (mHealth) applications have the potential to provide individuals with scalable, accessible, and personalized mental health support. This qualitative literature review aimed to explore how AI and LLMs are utilized in mHealth applications to address mental health conditions.

Methods 

We selected articles published between since 2020 to capture the most updated mHealth application development from peer-reviewed journals and online databases. Additional criteria for selection included that articles were full text, their PDFs were downloadable from the web or accessible through interlibrary loan, and they were originally published in English or that an English translation was available. Search terms included: a) mobile health, digital health; b) mental health.

Results

The reviewed applications targeted various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, stress, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Commonly supported by LLMs included virtual conversations, emotion tracking, and individualized self-help suggestions. While the findings demonstrate promising use cases, the studies also noted key challenges, particularly in areas of user privacy, ethical use of AI technologies, and the need for better user adaptation.

Conclusion

The review concludes that further investigation is necessary to establish the effectiveness, safety, and equity of AI-based mental health tools to help people in need and healthcare environments. Directions for future research will be presented.

Keywords: Mobile health applications; Mental health; Artificial Intelligence, Review; Promises