“Like Someone Is Paying Attention to You, Listening to You, and Guiding You”: Acceptability of a Mental Health Chatbot Among Caregivers of Adolescents Living With HIV

Abstract

Background This study assessed the acceptability, among caregivers, of a mental health chatbot designed for adolescents living with HIV aged 10 to 19 years. Methods Fifteen caregivers interacted with the mental health chatbot. Pre–post assessments and semistructured interviews evaluated acceptability. Data were analyzed using a Framework Analysis approach. Results Caregivers aged 31 to 70 years found the chatbot acceptable on individual, interpersonal, and environmental levels. They appreciated the educational content and self-help tools, feeling the chatbot would benefit them personally. Caregivers also saw potential in the chatbot to improve communication with their children, particularly during critical periods like HIV diagnosis. Despite concerns about data costs or internet access, most viewed the chatbot as an accessible supplement to traditional mental health services. Conclusion This study suggests that a mental health chatbot for Peruvian adolescents living with HIV was acceptable to their caregivers, potentially benefiting caregivers’ mental health, enhancing caregiver–adolescent interactions, and fostering better communication.