Illuminating User Experience of a Website for the Relatives of Persons With Depression

Background: The aim of the study was to illuminate users’ experiences of a website aimed at helping relatives of persons with depression. Material: Data was collected through forum posts, a usability scale and focus groups, and was analyzed using content analysis. Discussion: The diary and forum seemed to fill different and valuable functions (i.e. think tank, exchange of stories), allowing communication with the self and others. Conclusions: The website www.sommarregn.se has the potential to work as an empowering self-help instrument online, representing a viable medium to help relatives cope. Its usability can be enhanced through further development.