Illuminating user experience of a website for the relatives of persons with depression.
BACKGROUND
The aim of the study was to illuminate users' experiences of a website aimed at helping relatives of persons with depression.


METHODS
Data was collected through forum posts, a usability scale and focus groups, and was analyzed using content analysis.


CONCLUSIONS
The diary and forum seemed to fill different and valuable functions (i.e. think tank, exchange of stories), allowing communication with the self and others.


CONCLUSIONS
The website www.sommarregn.se has the potential to work as an empowering self-help instrument online, representing a viable medium to help relatives cope. Its usability can be enhanced through further development.
Malmö University, Sweden. sigrid.stjernsward@mah.se
Sigrid
S
Stjernswärd
Margareta
M
Ostman
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003863:Depression; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012944:Social Support; D014584:User-Computer Interface