Ethical and legal aspects of cybersecurity in health

Mental health monitoring and management applications

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56394/aris2.v4i1.45

Keywords:

ethics, cybersecuity, mental health applications, legal aspects

Abstract

Background: With the emergence of eHealth and mHealth, the use of mental health apps has increased significantly as an accessible and convenient approach as an adjunct to promoting well-being and mental health. There are several apps available that can assist with mental health monitoring and management, each with specific features to meet different needs. The intersection of mental health and cyber technology presents a number of critical legal and ethical issues. As mental health monitoring apps and devices become more integrated into clinical practice, cybersecurity takes on paramount importance. Objective: To address the ethical and legal aspects of health cybersecurity related to applications in mental health monitoring and management. Methods: We carried out a thematic synthesis of the best scientific evidence. Results: These tools have the potential to significantly improve access to and quality of care for users with mental health conditions, but they also raise substantial concerns about privacy and informed consent.  Cybersecurity in mental health is not only a matter of technology, but also of human rights. The protection of sensitive mental health information is critical, and legal and ethical measures to safeguard this information must be implemented in a robust and transparent manner. Conclusion: the use of information technologies and mobile devices is now part of the clinical reality and its future perspectives. It is important to mention that while these apps can be helpful for self-care and mental well-being management, they are not a substitute for the advice and support of a qualified mental health professional (psychologist or psychiatrist). As we move into the digital age, it is imperative that mental health monitoring and management apps are developed and used responsibly, ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of users.

References

Ordem dos Psicólogos Portugueses, Análise Crítica OPP - Utilização de Apps de Saúde Mental. Lisboa, 2022.

H. Arksey and L. O’Malley, “Scoping studies: Towards a methodological framework,” International Journal of Social Research Methodology: Theory and Practice, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 19–32, 2005, doi: 10.1080/1364557032000119616. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1364557032000119616

M. J. Page et al., “The PRISMA 2020 statement: An updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews,” The BMJ, vol. 372, no. 71, pp. 1–9, 2021, doi: 10.1136/bmj.n71. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n71

H. Noble and J. Smith, “Reviewing the literature: Choosing a review design,” Evid Based Nurs, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 39–41, 2018, doi: 10.1136/eb-2018-102895. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/eb-2018-102895

Downloads

Published

2024-04-15

How to Cite

[1]
A. Galvão, C. Vaz, M. Pinheiro, and C. Pais, “Ethical and legal aspects of cybersecurity in health: Mental health monitoring and management applications”, ARIS2-Journal, vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 04–19, Apr. 2024.