Table 3.

Advantages and disadvantages of dMBIs

Advantages	Disadvantages
Modality
dMBIs can be lost cost or free and represent a cost-effective approach Online interventions are usable during a global pandemic, especially in times of social distancing Online interventions can be easily and rapidly implemented in different locations and settings, with minimal training of personnel, no requirement for a therapist. Better geographical reach. Online intervention do not require a classroom or interfere with work scheduling. The online format eliminated issues of travel, space availability, and schedule coordination that are associated with participating in MBSR programs Online interventions can be done in anonymity and allow practice in privacy, individually dMBIs can be user-friendly interventions, with low complexity Technology allows for notifications and email reminders to use the interventions Online interventions can be individualized and can offer different modalities to better suit needs (e.g., written, video, and audio) dMBIs can be delivered to a greater number of participants, without a waitlist Online interventions can be self-paced, can be done anywhere at any time and can be asynchronous. Convenient/flexible/practical/Feasible Participants can reuse the intervention as much as they want	Developing an app or website can be costly In certain occupation, cellphone use was restricted during the COVID-19 pandemic Not accessible for participants without smartphone or computer, which can discriminate against low resources participants Privacy concerns can be a barrier to using online interventions. A concern was keeping usage confidential from the employer. Concern with the type of data collected Certain populations may have more difficulties than other to use an app or online interventions (ex.: police, older adults). Technical difficulties can arise (ex.: poor internet connection) Certain participants stated that the reminders were annoying Some programs can be repetitive and restraining. Some participants might dislike some aspects of the intervention (the interventionist’s voice, and/or finding the content repetitive, unhelpful, or condescending). Participants might prefer another modality (ex: CD, professional)
Intervention
dMBIs are generally brief and concise interventions, which can be convenient in a busy work and life schedule Interventions based on mood tracking, positive events, or offer distraction (puzzles and games) were rated as desirable. Cognitive elements (e.g., cognitive challenging, grounding, problem solving), behavioral elements (value-driven activity planning and goal setting), and mindfulness components were appreciated dMBIs can be increasing engagement and easily integrated in daily life. Articles presented positive feedback from users. Users found benefits to using dMBIs. These interventions are well-accepted in certain populations (ex.: medical personnel)	Short intervention can leave little time to practice, reflect. Short interventions do not necessarily solve the lack of time to practice. Work scheduling can still make it challenging to use an app. Even short practices (e.g.: 10 min) can seem too long for participants dMBIs can have low online participation and present progressive disengagement over time. Attrition was an issue in different studies as well as suboptimal use. Motivation to use these interventions can be low Risk that individuals who suffer from more serious disorders seek a dMBI rather than some more appropriate form of treatment Clinicians may feel threatened if internet delivered interventions are disseminated Cultural beliefs may have an influence on use of mobile interventions
Research
Ability to capture the completion of the intervention or the progress. Access to usage data
Work
Using a dMBI may not be a distraction at work but can help to stay focused dMBIs can have a preventive impact on work stress and burnout. More apps and programs are studied and validated. They are generally considered as effective tools and programs can be standardized	Lack of awareness regarding dMBIs lack of departmental support and incentive for skill practice Participants may not believe the healthcare facility would allow them to use a dMBI while at work