Mental Health and Digital Accessibility

Access to technology has become essential for daily life, work, and communication. From online banking and shopping to social media and healthcare services, our dependence on digital platforms continues to grow.

However, while technology can simplify many aspects of life, it can also present significant challenges, particularly for individuals with mental health conditions and those with certain accessibility needs. As awareness of mental health rises, so too does the need to ensure that digital spaces are accessible and supportive for everyone.

In this blog, we’ll explore the relationship between mental health and digital accessibility, and why creating inclusive online experiences is crucial for mental well-being.

How Mental Health Affects Digital Accessibility

When discussing accessibility, we often think of physical or sensory impairments. While designing for screen readers or adding subtitles to videos is important, mental health is an equally critical aspect of digital accessibility that is sometimes overlooked.

Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or ADHD can significantly impact a person’s ability to engage with technology. For instance, someone with anxiety may feel overwhelmed by cluttered or complex interfaces, making it difficult for them to complete simple tasks such as booking an appointment online. Similarly, an individual with ADHD might struggle to focus on a website that is overloaded with distracting elements like flashing ads or frequent pop-ups.

Imagine logging into a government portal to access important information, only to be bombarded with multiple forms, unclear instructions, and ticking countdowns. For someone already feeling anxious or stressed, this kind of digital environment can feel incredibly daunting. In situations like this, even a task as simple as filling out a form can lead to frustration or avoidance, exacerbating feelings of helplessness or isolation.

Barriers to Access for Individuals with Mental Health Conditions

Digital spaces are often designed with the assumption that users can navigate them quickly and without difficulty. But for individuals with mental health conditions, this isn’t always the case. There are several barriers that can prevent them from fully engaging with digital platforms:

Cognitive overload

Websites or apps that present too much information at once can overwhelm users. An excess of options, complex language, or unclear instructions can make it difficult to concentrate, leading to stress or confusion.

Sensory overstimulation

Bright colours, loud sounds, or rapidly changing visuals can be distressing, particularly for individuals with conditions like PTSD or autism. A simple scroll through social media might include flashing ads, autoplay videos, and constant notifications – all of which can create a chaotic experience for someone sensitive to sensory stimuli.

Poorly designed interfaces

Websites with inconsistent layouts, unclear navigation, or hidden menus can increase frustration. If users can’t easily find what they’re looking for, they may feel discouraged or anxious about completing their tasks.

Let’s take the example of an online learning platform. For students with anxiety or depression, an interface cluttered with too many features — upcoming deadlines, overdue assignments, grades, and social updates — can feel overwhelming. As a result, they may avoid using the platform altogether, missing out on vital educational resources or falling behind on their studies.

The Impact of Digital Exclusion on Mental Well-being

When people are unable to access or use digital platforms due to mental health challenges, the consequences can be profound. Social isolation, loss of independence, and reduced access to critical services are just a few of the negative impacts of digital exclusion. In extreme cases, being unable to engage with digital spaces can exacerbate mental health issues, leaving individuals feeling cut off from their support networks.

Take online healthcare, for example. Many mental health services are now available digitally, whether through booking therapy appointments, accessing resources, or engaging in online counselling. If these services are not designed with accessibility in mind, those who need help the most might find it difficult or impossible to access care.

Consider someone with severe depression who struggles with energy and motivation. A website requiring multiple logins, complicated steps, or an overwhelming amount of text could prevent them from reaching out for help, even when they are in desperate need of support.

Creating Digital Spaces that Support Mental Health

So, how can we ensure that digital platforms are accessible for individuals with mental health conditions? The key is designing with empathy, simplicity, and flexibility.

Clear and Simple Designs

Websites should prioritise clarity. Easy-to-read fonts, clean layouts, and intuitive navigation can help users feel more in control of their experience. For instance, providing clear instructions on how to complete tasks — like resetting a password or submitting a form — can significantly reduce anxiety for users.

Minimising Distractions

Reducing unnecessary elements, such as pop-ups, autoplay videos, and bright flashing advertisements, can help create a calm, focused environment. Tools like ‘reader modes’ on browsers, which strip out distracting content, can be beneficial.

Offering Options for Customisation

Everyone’s needs are different. Allowing users to customise their experience — by adjusting font sizes, contrast, or even simplifying the interface — can empower individuals to tailor the platform to their comfort.

One real-world example of accessible design that prioritises mental health can be found in meditation apps like Calm or Headspace. These apps are designed to minimise cognitive load by using simple interfaces, soothing colours, and a lack of distracting elements, helping users focus and relax. Similarly, the NHS website offers a ‘read aloud’ feature and simple, accessible layouts, making health information easier to digest, especially for users who may be feeling anxious.

Conclusion

Mental health must be considered when considering accessibility. Creating online spaces that are inclusive, calm, and intuitive can help remove the barriers faced by individuals with mental health conditions, allowing them to engage fully and confidently with digital platforms.

By prioritising mental health in our design processes, we can ensure that technology remains a tool for empowerment, rather than a source of stress or exclusion.