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Kerala Platform Offers Free Therapy for Gulf Expats Amid West Asia Tensions

A Kerala-based online mental health platform, Oppam, has launched a free psychological support initiative for Malayali and Tamil expatriates in the Middle East. The program responds to heightened anxiety and emotional distress caused by rising geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly between the US and Iran. The platform provides confidential, online therapy sessions in users' native languages to overcome barriers like stigma and lack of accessible care. Founded in 2023, Oppam aims to make culturally familiar mental health support available to diaspora communities around the clock.

Key Points: Free Online Therapy for Indian Expats in Gulf Amid Tensions

  • Free online therapy for expats
  • Support in Malayalam & Tamil
  • Addresses anxiety from geopolitical tensions
  • Aims to reduce stigma and increase access
  • Services are confidential and remote
2 min read

Free psychological therapy offered for Gulf expats amid West Asia tensions

A Kerala-based mental health platform offers free psychological support in Malayalam & Tamil for expats facing anxiety due to West Asia geopolitical tensions.

"the initiative was motivated by the growing need for culturally and linguistically accessible psychological care - Oppam Founders"

Kochi, March 12

With rising geopolitical tensions in parts of West Asia triggering anxiety among expatriate communities, a Kerala-based online mental health platform has announced a free psychological support initiative for Malayali and Tamil expatriates living across the Middle East countries.

The initiative comes as concerns grow among thousands of Indian expatriates following the ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, a situation that has heightened uncertainty and emotional stress among migrant communities working in the Gulf region.

Platform Oppam said the no-cost online therapy programme is aimed at providing immediate mental health support to expatriates who may be experiencing fear, anxiety, or emotional distress amid the evolving situation.

Individuals seeking assistance can book a free therapy session through the platform's website or contact its support helpline.

The sessions will be conducted online, ensuring accessibility, privacy and confidentiality for those in need during the current period of uncertainty.

Oppam was launched in Kerala in 2023 by Ebrahim Hawaz, Abdulla Kunhi and Mubashira with the objective of making mental health services more accessible to people who often struggle to find professional support in familiar languages.

The founders, who hail from Kasaragod, said the initiative was motivated by the growing need for culturally and linguistically accessible psychological care, particularly among expatriate populations.

According to them, many individuals hesitate to seek mental health support due to social stigma, lack of awareness, or the limited availability of therapy services in their native languages.

Positioned as a local language online therapy platform, Oppam aims to provide psychological support that is inclusive, approachable and accessible around the clock.

By offering services in languages familiar to users, the platform seeks to bridge a key gap in mental health care for diaspora communities and ensure that professional help remains within reach, regardless of location.

The free support initiative, the founders said, reflects the platform's commitment to standing with expatriate communities during times of uncertainty and crisis.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Finally, someone addressing the real issue. The stress isn't just about safety; it's the constant uncertainty that affects mental health. Offering it in local languages breaks the biggest barrier. Hope more people utilize this.
A
Aman W
While the intent is good, I hope the platform has enough qualified therapists to handle the potential surge. Free services often get overwhelmed. They should partner with the Indian embassies for wider reach.
S
Sarah B
As someone who has lived abroad, the isolation during geopolitical crises is real. Having support in your mother tongue is a game-changer for mental well-being. Great step forward for diaspora care.
V
Vikram M
Our Gulf brothers and sisters send back precious remittances that power our economy. The least we can do is support their mental health when they are far from home. Jai Hind.
K
Kavya N
Addressing the stigma is key. In our society, talking about anxiety is still taboo. This initiative normalizes seeking help. Hope it continues even after tensions ease.

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