Internet search data and mental health: promises and pitfalls (Preprint)

UNSTRUCTURED Internet is now integral to everyday life, and users' online search data could be of strategic importance in mental healthcare. As shown by previous studies, it may provide valuable insights into individuals mental state, and can be of great value in early identification and in helping pathways to care. Internet search data can potentially provide real-time identification and alert mechanisms to timely interventions, for instance. In this viewpoint paper, we discuss the various problems related to the use of this data in research and in clinical practice such as privacy, integration with clinical information, and other technical challenges. We propose solutions to address these issues, and possible directions to follow.