Privacy & Safety in Support Groups

1. Group Privacy Levels

Groups have different visibility settings affecting who can find or join. Your personal information is always protected.

👉 Even “public” groups are still within MentalHappy’s secure, members-only environment.

2. Your Privacy Options

• No Direct Messaging: Members cannot send you private messages. All interaction occurs in the group space.
• Anonymous Questions: Submit questions anonymously; approved posts appear without your name.
• Comfort Choices:
  • Keep your camera off in live sessions
  • Use only your first name or a nickname
  • Share only when you’re ready

3. Protecting Group Content

• Confidentiality: Stories and names are not to be shared outside the group.
• No Recording or Screenshots: Group sessions and chats cannot be copied, recorded, or downloaded.
• Secure Technology: All groups are HIPAA-compliant and encrypted. Payment information is handled securely by Stripe and never shared.
• Inside the App: Attend sessions and share only inside the MentalHappy app for full protection.

4. Group Guidelines for Members

• Respect others’ privacy: Never share another member’s story outside the group.
• Be kind: No judgment, hate speech, or harassment.
• Speak for yourself: Use “I” statements when sharing.
• This is not therapy or crisis care — it’s peer support.

5. Safety & Crisis Support

• MentalHappy groups are not emergency services.
• If you feel unsafe or experience a crisis:
  • Call 911 (U.S.) or your local emergency number.
  • Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, U.S.)
• If you notice a fellow member in crisis, encourage them to use these resources immediately.
• For inappropriate behavior or issues with another member or Group Leader, contact MentalHappy Support immediately via in-app Help or support@mentalhappy.com.

6. Participation & Consent

• You are never required to answer questions or share more than you want.
• You can skip activities at any time.
• Consent is ongoing — your comfort comes first.
• Participation is always voluntary.
• Leaders and members should model privacy — never sharing names or stories outside the group without explicit consent.