How do stakeholders perceive their involvement in mental health model development: focus group study

Abstract Introduction Improving population mental health is a global public health priority. Computational models are increasingly used by policy-makers to estimate the potential health and economic effects of preventive interventions, with stakeholder involvement recognised as an approach to improve model relevance. Properly managing stakeholder involvement in model development is challenging. This focus group study explored the strengths and challenges encountered by stakeholders during their involvement in developing a mental health model for young adults. Methods Focus groups were conducted with four stakeholder groups: experts by experience who have experienced mental health problems, young adults, professionals working in mental health services, and mental health researchers. 14 focus groups were conducted across three distinct rounds, in which a total of 43 stakeholders participated. Results Participants experienced strengths related to the process of participatory modelling, including the ability to compare ideas with other stakeholders and the opportunity to share relevant personal experiences. Additionally, challenges experienced were study unclarities and doubts about the validity of other participants’ perspectives. Complexities associated with participatory computational modelling were the need for simplification and the challenge to make future projections. Finally, complexities related to mental health included dynamic interactions between mental health factors and variability within and between individuals. Conclusions The involvement of stakeholders in computational model development is an emerging practice that can enhance the understanding of the model context and improve its relevance for supporting decision-making processes. This study provides valuable insights that offer practical guidance for optimising stakeholder contributions in computational model development, ultimately contributing to improved model quality and support for policy-making. Key messages • Stakeholder involvement in computational modelling is a promising approach to improve the contextual relevance and quality of models, thereby supporting better-informed decision-making processes. • This study provides insights into the strengths and challenges experienced by stakeholders, offering practical guidance for optimising stakeholder contributions in computational model development.