BTS launches peer-to-peer chat app
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“It’s often hard to talk with family and friends about how you’re feeling and what may be troubling you, but you may not feel quite ready to see a mental health professional,” says the charity. “Sometimes it’s easier to talk to people who don’t know you, but who can relate because they’re in this industry too. They get the crazy hours, the pressures of getting the show on every night or the right shot on set, and the void felt when the gig is over.
That’s why Behind the Scenes has partnered with iRel8 to launch Be Scene – Be Heard. A platform to interact with your peers, talk about what’s on your mind, find comfort and knowledge from one another, and, perhaps, offer insight to someone who is going through something you already have. Chats are instantly translatable into 54 languages. Be Scene – Be Heard is available “wherever you are, whenever you need it, for whatever is on your mind”.
“Signing up for the app requires an email address and costs $0.99 a month and can be done here: btshelp.org/chat.
Users will find a “room” for general conversation and one for industry resources. As participation grows, sub-groups will be formed for more focussed discussion on topics such as, but not limited to anxiety and depression, staying sober, women in the industry, bullying and harassment, etc. Participants will be able to create their own groups and conduct one-on-one chats within the app, giving you the ability to create and tailor your own safe spaces.
“While Be Scene – Be Heard is a great way to find and lend peer to peer support, it not a crisis hot line. If you or someone you care about is in danger of harming yourself or someone else you should call 911 or reach out to one of the 24/7/365 resources at btshelp.org/resources," says the charity. “We hope you will join this new online community specifically for our industry to turn to, ask for, or provide assistance, insight, comfort, and support. Please join us today and Be Scene - Be Heard!”
Behind the Scenes in conjunction with other concerned organisations and individuals have come together to create the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Initiative. A series of tools and resources has been developed to not only help you but also assist you in helping your colleagues. Find links to resources, the online self-assessment tool, and information about the initiative and programmes at btshelp.org/mentalhealth.
