[Towards public mental health care: the recovery-oriented chat of PsychoseNet.nl].

Abstract

Background: E-health and e-communities, such as PsychoseNet.nl, can play a central role in creating a sustainable public mental health care system. These platforms combine information sharing, peer support, and accessible help services, with the goal of promoting empowerment and recovery.

Aim: To explore the impact of the recovery-supportive chat function of PsychoseNet.nl as an accessible tool for individuals with mental health vulnerabilities, and to examine its potential role within the broader mental health care ecosystem.

Method: An analysis of the recovery-supportive chat function, using conversation reports, user and staff evaluations, and a description of implementation and supervision processes. The approach is recovery- and development-oriented.

Results: Between 2020 and 2024, the chat grew from 100 to 1,300 conversations per month. Visitors find the chat highly meaningful and useful. The ‘5x trajectory’ offers more in-depth support. The chat serves as a bridge to mental health care, an alternative during waitlists, and a low-threshold advice or self-help channel.

Conclusion: The recovery-oriented chat of PsychoseNet.nl provides a valuable addition to traditional mental health care by offering anonymous, accessible, and empowerment-enhancing support. A chat function focused on recovery and relational connection within an online community represents an innovative public mental health intervention. Further expansion and integration into other e-communities and mental health care models could contribute to a sustainable and accessible public mental health care system.