The increasing reliance on electronic mental health solutions in humanitarian contexts is reshaping the landscape of mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). In conflict zones, natural disasters, and displacement settings, eMHPSS has emerged as a vital tool to overcome barriers such as healthcare worker shortages, security risks, and logistical constraints. However, unlike in-person interventions, there are currently no globally standardized guidelines for eMHPSS, leading to inconsistent service delivery and ethical concerns. This presentation will explore the need for structured eMHPSS guidelines and introduce a proposed framework based on emerging research and expert recommendations. 1. The Growing Importance of eMHPSS in Humanitarian Settings • How eMHPSS overcomes traditional mental health service barriers • Evidence-based effectiveness of video conferencing, self-help apps, and online counseling • Lessons learned from previous eMHPSS applications in disaster-affected regions (e.g., Haiti earthquake, Syrian crisis, COVID-19 response) 2. The Gap: Lack of Standardized eMHPSS Protocols • Absence of structured guidelines compared to existing in-person MHPSS standards (e.g., IASC Guidelines) • Challenges faced by NGOs, humanitarian workers, and clinicians when implementing remote mental health interventions • Ethical and logistical concerns: confidentiality, data security, access to technology, and cultural adaptation 3. A Roadmap for Developing eMHPSS Guidelines • Expert-driven approach: Using a Delphi study to gather consensus from global experts • Key focus areas: o Clinical best practices for online mental health interventions o Ethical and legal considerations for remote psychological support o Technical infrastructure requirements (internet, device access, and security) o Integration with existing humanitarian response frameworks • Proposal for collaborations with WHO, IASC, ISTSS, and NGOs 4. Implementation and Future Directions • Pilot testing eMHPSS protocols with humanitarian organizations • Training and capacity building for MHPSS actors • Ongoing evaluation and refinement of guidelines based on real-world application By presenting this framework, this session aims to lay the foundation for globally recognized eMHPSS standards, ensuring consistent, ethical, and effective digital mental health support in humanitarian settings.
