Kenya Red Cross introduces AI Chatbot for mental health support

The Kenya Red Cross has introduced a groundbreaking AI Mental Health Chatbot designed to enhance mental health support and accessibility.

This innovative tool can be accessed via the Kenya Red Cross portal, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram, as well as through a USSD code (7891199#).

The organisation has also unveiled a comprehensive mental health framework aimed at integrating mental health services into the community.

According to the Kenya Red Cross, the services provided through these initiatives include assessments for psychosis, depression, anxiety, drug use, PTSD, and gambling.

“It’s confidential, free, and available to anyone with a mobile phone,” the organisation said.

Kenya Red Cross said the platforms offer immediate assistance and resources via AI technology, while the framework integrates comprehensive mental health services into the community.

On the other hand, the USSD Code service provides accessible support for users without internet access, ensuring inclusivity in mental health efforts.

Speaking during the launch on Wednesday, Executive Director of International Centre for Humanitarian Affairs Safia Verjee said they have implemented internal mitigation factors including data privacy measures to monitor the platforms and provide feedback mechanisms to improve the digital platforms.

“As we launch this suite of digital tools, we do so with a deep sense of responsibility and determination. We recognise there are risks when engaging AI, so we have put in place internal mitigation factors including the data privacy measures, continuously monitoring the platforms and providing feedback mechanisms to improve the digital products. We appreciate the value provided by AI, however, we are cognizant that it cannot replace human interaction and therefore, the client has the option of choosing the AI or a human agent,” she said.

The Kenya Red Cross has today launched three transformative initiatives; the AI Mental Health Chatbot, Mental Health Framework and USSD Code. The three initiatives embody our commitment to revolutionizing mental health support.

The Chatbot, which can be accessed here… pic.twitter.com/iHtOpmvxDm

— Kenya Red Cross (@KenyaRedCross) June 13, 2024

She further emphasised the significance of the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Framework, which was developed in collaboration with other partners.

“This framework is more than just a document; it is an inspiration. Validated through rigorous internal and external scrutiny, it champions community-based interventions, resilience-building, and the reduction of stigma. In essence, it reshapes the very fabric of our emergency response strategies,” she said.

Head of the Mental Health Division at the Ministry of Health Mercy Karanja reiterated that the platforms break barriers of people who suffer in silence due to stigma, lack of resources, and limited access to professional help.

She said through the user-friendly platforms, individuals will be able to seek help, access information, and connect with mental health professionals.

“If we invest in mental health, we can save over 5,000 lives and Sh161 billion in productivity gains over 10 years,” she said.