We have seen a recent article published by KFF regarding California’s digital mental health strategy and our work in support of it.
We believe it fails to raise any legitimate concerns regarding Kooth, its partners or third parties, and simply seeks to undermine the work done by multiple parties within the State to implement a digital mental health strategy to address the youth mental health crisis in California.
Event participation
The article raises a question regarding the attendance of the Mental Health Services Oversight & Accountability Commission (MHSOAC) members at an event in London.
This participation was part of a long-planned conference which, due to the abrupt calling of the UK election for July 2024, changed its focus in accordance with election protocols.
However, what was unchanged was the desire, from the international policy institutes, research foundations and non-profit organisations involved, to maintain the opportunity to share strategies, experience and learnings to address the global youth mental health epidemic.
The article itself notes that it is common practice for organisations to host and facilitate participation in events which have the opportunity to move the conversation on critical topics, such as mental health.
State budget process
The article highlights the recommendation from the MHSOAC that the State maintains its youth-focused digital mental health strategy, a pillar in California’s master plan for kids’ mental health.
The overall programme was evaluated – along with all government spending - as part of a review to address California’s 2024/25 $45 billion budget deficit.
The digital mental health strategy has been confirmed, following this evaluation, to deliver State-wide support for its entire youth population.
Our commitment to building mentally healthy populations, leaving no-one behind
We remain focused on meeting the high ethical standards required to operate in such a sensitive and complex area as youth mental health, and are committed and focused on building mentally healthier populations, leaving no one behind.