Health Sciences Review · Published 2026-05-18 · DOI 10.1016/j.hsr.2026.100272
John Adewole Alara, Oluwaseun Ruth Alara
Digital interventions are increasingly being used to support mental health promotion and care among individuals with disabilities. This narrative review examines the current evidence on digital mental health interventions, with a particular focus on mobile applications, web-based programmes, telehealth, and hybrid care models. The review explores their potential to improve emotional well-being, reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, enhance engagement, and widen access to support for people who face communication, mobility, sensory, cognitive, or structural barriers to conventional services. Across the reviewed literature, digital interventions appear promising, especially when they are accessible, tailored, and supported by carers or professionals. However, the evidence base remains uneven and is limited by small study samples, methodological heterogeneity, inadequate long-term follow-up, and inconsistent reporting of accessibility and safety features. A recurring finding is that digital-only models may be less effective for individuals with complex or high-support needs, whereas hybrid approaches that combine digital tools with human support are more acceptable and sustainable. Overall, this narrative review suggests that digital interventions can contribute meaningfully to mental health promotion among individuals with disabilities, but their effectiveness depends on inclusive design, accessibility, trust, and appropriate implementation. Future research should prioritise disability-specific trials, co-designed interventions, and clearer reporting of accessibility, usability, and long-term outcomes.
Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).
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Alara, J., Alara, O. (2026). Digital interventions for mental health promotion among individuals with disabilities. Health Sciences Review. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hsr.2026.100272