Web-based Interventions for Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health: Preliminary findings from a Scoping Review.

Quintana, Y., Joseph, A. L., & Srivastava, G. (2024). Web-based Interventions for Substance Use Disorders and Mental Health: Preliminary findings from a Scoping Review.. AMIA . Annual Symposium Proceedings. AMIA Symposium, 2024, 940-949.

Abstract

This scoping review evaluated the efficacy and potential of web-based interventions for substance use disorders and mental health conditions. The studies comprise randomized controlled trials, pilot trials, and effectiveness trials. Web-based interventions consistently demonstrated significant reductions in substance use, improvements in mental health outcomes (e.g., PTSD, depression, anxiety), and enhancements in emotion regulation, help-seeking, and quality of life. Several studies found web-based interventions to be non-inferior or superior to traditional face-to-face treatments. Despite limitations in the current evidence base, such as methodological issues and lack of long-term follow-up, the findings highlight the promise of web-based interventions in expanding access to evidence-based care, particularly for underserved populations. Future research should focus on refining interventions, exploring novel technologies, and evaluating long-term effectiveness and cost-effectiveness. The integration of web-based interventions into healthcare systems has the potential to significantly impact public health by increasing treatment accessibility and improving outcomes for individuals with substance use disorders and mental health conditions.

Last updated on 04/01/2026
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