About the Chat-line (ReYou)

ReYou, iCALL’s Mental Health App is an innovative app developed for young adults to access information, self-help tools, and support, aimed at enhancing well-being. ReYou is designed by iCALL, with support from Zoom Cares, to offer an evidence-based, accessible, and user-friendly digital platform to address common mental health challenges while fostering mental health literacy.

This app provides young users with psychoeducational content and self-guided exercises that cover a wide range of mental health topics, such as stress, anxiety, and crisis management. Thus, users can develop insights and skills to manage such concerns, promoting a sense of self-efficacy and well-being. Research has shown that digital interventions can significantly reduce depressive symptoms, anxiety, and stress among youth, making tools like ReYou a valuable resource (Grist et al., 2019; Firth et al., 2017).

For young people experiencing more intense distress or crisis situations, the app includes information on iCALL’s synchronous support services, including chat, phone, and email options. ReYou offers a seamless connection between self-help and professional support, allowing users to transition from exploring content independently to engaging with iCALL counselors when needed. The app also provides users with a directory of 24/7 helplines, ensuring that immediate crisis support is always within reach, even outside our service hours.

Key Features of ReYou:

• Accessible and Free: ReYou is available for free download on the Google Play Store, ensuring affordability and ease of access for young people.
• Self-Help Resources: Offers a comprehensive library of articles and exercises on mental health topics, empowering users with tools for mental wellbeing.
• Linkage to iCALL’s Services: Information on iCALL’s phone, chat, and email services allows users to engage with trained counselors as needed, fostering a safe and supportive environment.
• 24/7 Helpline Directory: In cases of urgent need, users have access to a list of helplines, ensuring support is always available.

ReYou by iCALL represents a significant step in closing the youth mental health support gap by combining educational resources with immediate access to professional support, helping young people manage mental health challenges in a safe and supportive digital space.

References

Firth, J., Torous, J., Nicholas, J., Carney, R., Pratap, A., Rosenbaum, S., & Sarris, J. (2017). The efficacy of smartphone-based mental health interventions for depressive symptoms: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. World Psychiatry, 16(3), 287–298.

Grist, R., Croker, A., Denne, M., & Stallard, P. (2019). Technology delivered interventions for depression and anxiety in children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 22(2), 147–171.