Patients' and clinicians' perspectives on a transdiagnostic experience sampling and ecological momentary intervention protocol.

Background

Experience Sampling Method (ESM) and Ecological Momentary Interventions (EMI) are promising tools for person-centered mental health care, yet evidence on prolonged transdiagnostic monitoring remains limited.

Aims

This study explored service users' and clinicians' perspectives on the usability and clinical utility of a prolonged transdiagnostic ESM protocol with on-demand EMI content.

Methods

Within the DISCONNECT project, 89 service users initiated a 30-day ESM monitoring period, of whom 84 completed the debriefing questionnaire to assess their experience of self-monitoring protocol. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 service users and 10 outpatient clinicians. Data were analyzed using content analysis and thematic content analysis.

Results

Both stakeholder groups perceived ESM as acceptable and clinically valuable. Participants reported increased self-awareness, improved understanding of symptom patterns, and enhanced opportunities for psychoeducation, treatment planning, and patient-clinician communication. EMI was viewed positively but used infrequently. Participants emphasized the need for personalized assessments, flexible schedules, individualized feedback, and context-sensitive interventions. Key barriers included monitoring burden, clinician time constraints, and organizational challenges.

Conclusions

Prolonged transdiagnostic ESM monitoring appears feasible, acceptable, and clinically meaningful, although successful implementation will require greater personalization and integration into routine care.