HEALTH HUB | The rise of telemedicine: How mental health patients are getting help remotely

In an era where technology is reshaping various aspects of daily life, mental health services are no exception.

"Let’s Talk 24/7," an innovative digital platform, is offering accessible and affordable therapy services at the click of a button.

James Wanyoike, Team Lead at Let’s Talk 24/7, explains that the platform is designed to provide instant mental health support to individuals seeking professional counseling.

"In case you have an issue, you can log into the platform and find a counselor with just a simple dial. The platform enables users to request immediate assistance and engage with a therapist through both video and audio formats," Wanyoike said.

Additionally, Let’s Talk 24/7 has launched a mobile application to enhance accessibility and ensure that professional help is available anytime, anywhere.

One of the platform’s key features is its ability to match individuals with therapists who can provide tailored support based on their specific needs.

Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or work-related stress, users can connect with licensed therapists across the country.

Cost-effectiveness is another significant advantage of Let’s Talk 24/7. Traditional face-to-face therapy can often be expensive, but online therapy sessions tend to be more affordable, depending on the therapist and the nature of the services required.

This affordability makes mental health support more inclusive, especially for individuals who might otherwise struggle to access professional counseling.

The rise of online therapy is no surprise given the increasing integration of technology into everyday life, particularly among millennials.

As conversations around mental health gain traction, more people are becoming aware of the importance of seeking professional help, leading to a growing demand for mental health services.

"One advantage of online therapy is the disinhibition effect where people feel more comfortable opening up and discussing their problems when they are online," Wanyoike adds.

This psychological phenomenon makes digital therapy particularly appealing to individuals who may find it difficult to express themselves in traditional face-to-face settings.

According to the World Health Organization, around 1 in 4 Kenyans may experience a mental health issue at some point in their lives, and 13 per cent of the total disease burden in Kenya is attributed to mental illness. 

Sabine Byemba, a counseling psychologist, underscored the importance of platforms like Let’s Talk 24/7 in addressing the mental health crisis in the country.

"Mental health has been a major issue, and unfortunately, many people do not have immediate access to professional support. Platforms like this bridge the gap by offering convenient and affordable counseling options," she says.