Kooth Digital Health’s Post

We talk a lot about access to mental health support — but what do we really mean by it? This World Mental Health Day, we’re reflecting on what true access really looks like — and why digital, professionally guided care is critical to bridging the gap. As awareness around mental health rises, we’re seeing new challenges emerge: blurred lines between distress and diagnosis, and young people turning to unregulated sources for help. This year the theme focuses on access - and particularly in times of catastrophe. In a time where advances in digital technology are under greater scrutiny than ever, this was a helpful reminder for me that the promise of digital - to break down barriers, connect us, and widen access to essential information and support - can still be harnessed for good. In our own services this year, we’ve been able to rapidly scale up access to professional support in the wake of the LA wildfires, ensuring California’s youth could access trusted care and on-the-ground resources, in minutes not hours. But we’re increasingly seeing that access alone - without strong networks into real life communities, safeguards, or governance - can do more harm than good. My article today explores what this means on World Mental Health day - and what we can do about it. Read more here https://lnkd.in/ekXYBKFf