Knowledge Base
Everything you need to know about using MentalHappy
👥 Participant Onboarding Checklist | MentalHappy

👥 Onboarding Checklist for Group Participants

Help participants feel welcome, confident, and ready to engage in your support group.

✅ Part 1: Before the Group Begins

Share Your Guidelines

All participants agree to MentalHappy’s community guidelines when signing up. As the leader, post your specific guidelines in the group chat before the first session to reinforce expectations.

💡 Clear guidelines reduce confusion and create a safe environment from day one.

Set Up Technology

  • Download the MentalHappy app (iOS or Android) or log in via browser.
  • No Zoom or Skype needed — all sessions run inside MentalHappy.
  • Check internet, camera, and microphone if live video is planned.
💡 Encourage downloads before the first session to avoid last-minute tech stress.

Turn On In-App Notifications

Enable notifications to stay updated on group chats, sessions, and announcements.

Emphasize Privacy & Confidentiality

  • MentalHappy is HIPAA-compliant; data is secure.
  • Group chats/sessions are only visible to members.
  • Screenshots are blocked in-app.
  • Remind participants: what’s shared in the group stays in the group.

Accessibility Considerations

  • Use simple language in updates.
  • Post short voice notes or videos for accessibility.
  • Break down instructions into steps.

Encourage Early Engagement

  • Ask: “What inspired you to join this group?”
  • Ask: “Share one goal or hope you have for being here.”

Tech & Member Support

Share Knowledge Base & FAQ links. Let members know they can access the in-app chatbot and live support. Participants can also report incidents directly.

💡 Leaders don’t need to handle tech issues — support is available.

Contacting Leaders & Moderators

No direct messages allowed. Communication happens in group chat, sessions, or anonymous questions.

⚠️ Important Policy: No Outside Services
No promoting outside therapy, retreats, coaching, or businesses. This protects members and group integrity.

Inviting Others

Public groups: participants can share invite link. Private groups: only leaders can invite new members.

✅ Part 2: Timeline Example

1 Week Before — Share guidelines, encourage app download & login test.
3 Days Before — Post a reminder, ask participants to enable notifications.
Day of Session — Send “See you soon!” message, remind about privacy, mention tech support availability.

✅ Part 3: 90-Day Engagement Roadmap

Weeks 1–2
  • Icebreaker activity
  • Reinforce guidelines
  • Encourage introductions in chat
Weeks 3–4
  • Post 1–2 topics/resources
  • Encourage sharing experiences
  • Celebrate milestones
Month 2
  • Host 2 sessions
  • Post weekly prompts
  • Encourage peer support
Month 3
  • Post consistently (2–3x/week)
  • Highlight wins
  • Ask for feedback
💡 Consistent engagement during the first 90 days leads to highest retention and impact.

✅ Part 4: Measuring Group Success

  • 70%+ attend at least one session in first 30 days.
  • Members participate in group chat weekly.
  • Growth through referrals/invites.
  • Positive member feedback on feeling supported.

✅ Part 5: Ready-to-Use Resources

Participant Welcome Template

👋 Welcome everyone! I’m so glad you’re here. This group is a safe and supportive space where we’ll connect, share, and grow together.

✅ Please review our group guidelines.
✅ Introduce yourself in the chat.
✅ Turn on notifications so you don’t miss updates.

Our first session is scheduled for [insert date/time]. I look forward to seeing you there!

First Session Checklist for Leaders

  • Post welcome message in chat.
  • Re-share guidelines.
  • Confirm session date/time.
  • Test internet/camera/mic.
  • Prepare simple icebreaker activity.

📌 Need More Help?

For Frequently Asked Questions, click here.