Disseminating Online Mental Health Resources: An Application of the Knowledge-to-Action Model

The proliferation of freely available online mental health resources over recent years has remarkably advanced the field's potential to disseminate mental health information while simultaneously creating the problem of information overload. This article applies Graham et al.'s (2006) knowledge-to-action (KTA) model to outline a process for improving dissemination of online resources. The KTA model outlines two dynamic phases that can enhance dissemination of online resources. The first phase focuses on synthesizing available mental health research into user-friendly informational resources, and then further condensing and organizing those resources to reduce information overload. Although this phase can improve resource accessibility, the organization of resources alone is often insufficient for translating KTA. To address this, the next phase of the model focuses on improving the actionability and relevance of online resources by tailoring the content to the specific needs and interests of the intended audience. Finally, this article will review additional considerations to ensure successful and sustainable dissemination of online resources. By applying KTA model with consideration of facilitators and barriers specific to online resources, resource developers can reduce obstacles related to accessing mental health information online.