Supporting population mental health and wellness during the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada: protocol for a sequential mixed-method study

The study describes the protocol for the development and evaluation of SaskWell, a customized two-way text-messaging service designed to connect Saskatchewan residents with digital mental health and wellness resources during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study uses the RE-AIM framework to guide a sequential mixed-https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052259methods approach involving co-design, implementation, and evaluation. SaskWell was designed as a 10-week service, providing participants with digital mental health tools, weekly wellness resources, and opportunities to assess their mental health and provide feedback. Quantitative data from enrollment surveys and user engagement metrics, together with qualitative interviews, were planned to assess the service’s effectiveness, acceptability, satisfaction, and perceived benefit. The study was intended to determine whether a low-tech text-messaging approach could improve awareness of and access to existing digital mental health supports, including among populations who may experience barriers to accessing these resources.