Aetna International has joined forces with wellbeing app and service provider Wysa, as the UK continues to participate in mental health awareness week.
The Wysa app will complement existing Aetna services, by giving members instant access to guided mental support, which can help people to self-manage feelings of anxiety, financial stress, isolation and more.
With the 24/7 available digital solution, Aetna International wants to engage a broader audience with materials and activities that support mental health; from a simple anonymous conversation to guidance on appropriate next steps.
This is part of the healthcare company’s efforts to address the ‘second curve’ of the covid-19 pandemic, the less visible but increasing mental wellbeing crisis.
Challenging times
Richard di Benedetto, president of Aetna International, said: “The health effects of covid-19 are not just physical.
“We are facing an unusual and challenging set of circumstances, which have had a huge impact on the mental health and day-to-day lives of many people.
“By accelerating our relationship with Wysa, we are providing early mental wellbeing support at scale and, through this, hope to alleviate some of the pressure people are feeling during this incredibly challenging time.
The mental and emotional well-being impacts of covid-19, which represent the ‘second curve’ of this pandemic, are likely to stay with us for some time, as people grapple with change and uncertainty in both their workplaces and at home.
“It is vital that we and other businesses take proactive steps to address this.”
Details
Through Wysa, all Aetna International members and their employees will have free access to 24/7 text-based support designed to help them navigate a range of mental wellbeing challenges at their own pace, including anxiety, stress, motivation and confidence.
The app’s AI-driven function allows members to ‘chat’ about their mental health via text, and will direct them toward self-help content and coaching packs that can be used to develop tailored management plans.
The app will also signpost how members can seek additional support through structured one-to-one coaching sessions with one of Wysa’s qualified coaches.
Each member will be entitled to one completely free coaching session, and will benefit from “special” Aetna International rates for further sessions, which are available to purchase via the app.
Additionally, the Wysa app will direct members to existing Aetna International services they can access as part of their policies, such as telephone or face-to-face counselling, online consultations and other self-help and professional support resources.
