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Abstract
Background: Young people increasingly look towards the Internet for support. Online
forums have been developed to provide mental health support, but they have received
little attention in the research to date. Aims: To summarise the existing literature
examining how individuals use online forums to obtain support for mental health difficulties.
Methods: A systematic review of electronic databases was conducted to identify empirical
literature in this area. The papers that met the inclusion criteria and satisfied
quality assessment review were analysed for key themes. Results: Twenty-one papers
were found. Three common themes in the papers were associated with opportunities of
the technology: (1) Providing stand alone or complementary informal support, (2) Providing
informational, emotional and infomotional support, and (3) Making use of the specific
practical opportunities afforded by forum technology. A further three themes were
associated with challenges: (1) Managing the expectations of forum users, (2) Ensuring
service user safety, and (3) Navigating the technical challenges associated with forums.
Conclusions: The paper highlights the potential for individuals to access dynamic
and responsive support within online forums. Additionally, it reflects upon the major
areas that mental health professionals need to be aware of when entering into this
arena.