Digital Health Information Access and Acceptance-Based Educational Interventions: Enhancing Psychological Empowerment among Patients with Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Abstract

This study explores the potential of exposure to digital mental health resources and acceptance-focused educational materials to help users with Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) alleviate anxiety and enhance overall mental well-being. Based on the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy principles, the study shifts the focus from the traditional clinical intervention to the exploration of information-seeking behaviors and health literacy practice. Using the mixed-methods research design, it evaluates the ways accessibility, understandability, and discernment of the information related to the healthcare transmitted through digital platforms and institutional systems affect mental well-being. Results derived from structured questionnaires administered among the patients visiting the primary healthcare settings indicate that user-centered and evidence-supported digital materials greatly relieve mental anxiety and enhance the strengthening of mental coping strengths. Also, the study indicates that information validity and accuracy and the way the information is delivered prove to be the critical determinants to affect the interest in the therapeutic materials. With its actionable recommendations, the study has implications for public healthcare libraries and information professionals and digital mental healthcare developers to create accessible and inclusive mental health literacy materials that can aid the management and control of chronic diseases. Such recommendations are particularly critical to the developing world where mental healthcare inequalities continue to persist.