Youth can face mental health challenges in the transition from adolescence to adulthood. Web-based programs, apps, and websites for mental health are increasingly developed for youth due to their consistent use of online and mobile technologies. These resources have several benefits including easy access to information, anonymity, and low cost. This study sought to develop an understanding of youth’s experiences with web-based programs, apps, and websites for mental health. Nine participants between the ages of 15-21 with lived experience of a mental health concern from British Columbia and Ontario were recruited for this study. The photovoice method was used to aid participants in exploring their experiences with digital mental health interventions through photography. Group workshops and individual interviews allowed youth to reflect on their photographs.

Data analysis was conducted through open inductive coding applied to transcripts from workshops and interviews. Themes related to youths’ digital mental health intervention use journeys were identified as (1) Searching for support, (2) Individual needs unmet, and (3) Finding relief. Photovoice provided a suitable research method for prioritizing youth lived expertise due to its flexible and adaptable approach. Mental health researchers and service providers should readily consider the experiences of youth when designing, selecting, and assessing digital mental health interventions as part of an integrative approach to mental health care.