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The rates of mental illness among Black American women are comparable to the general population, however, they significantly underutilize mental health services compared to their White counterparts. Barriers such as stigma of mental illness, limited access to treatment, lack of or inadequate health insurance, and lack of time prevent Black women from seeking care which has contributed to their underutilization of mental health services. Previous studies revealed that mHealth interventions increase access to mental health services and resources, and are effective in reducing anxiety and depression. Approximately 80% of Black American women own smartphones. This presents a great opportunity to use mobile technology to help reduce the disparity in mental health service utilization and improve health outcomes. The purpose of the project is to examine the attitudes and perceptions of Black American women towards using mental health services, and the feasibility of using mobile technology to deliver mental health services and resources.
