TikTok Launches Global Mental Health Initiative, Fosters Digital Wellness in Africa

A New Era of Digital Well-being on TikTok

TikTok recently held its first-ever Digital Well-being Summit in Johannesburg, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders from across Sub-Saharan Africa. The event featured policymakers, mental health professionals, non-governmental organizations, and industry leaders who came together to explore ways to enhance online safety, promote digital literacy, and foster a healthier digital environment for users.

The summit served as a platform for open dialogue, focusing on the development of tools and strategies that support community well-being. Key discussions revolved around improving online safety mechanisms, increasing access to expert resources, and creating a more balanced digital experience for users. The gathering highlighted the importance of collaboration between different sectors to address the challenges of the digital age.

Introducing New Tools and Partnerships

As part of its commitment to user well-being, TikTok unveiled a range of new features and initiatives at the summit. These include the expansion of its global $2.3 million mental health fund to include organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa, an expanded network of local in-app helplines, and the introduction of a groundbreaking meditation feature available to all users.

The meditation feature, which was piloted in March 2025, is now accessible worldwide. It is integrated into Sleep Hours, an in-app well-being tool that automatically activates at 22:00 for users under the age of 18. Users above this age can choose to enable the feature themselves. This initiative marks a significant step in the industry, offering users a way to manage their digital habits and improve sleep quality through mindful practices.

Empowering Young Users Through Mental Health Initiatives

Research indicates that regular meditation can significantly improve sleep quality and help young users develop healthier nighttime routines. By introducing this feature, TikTok aims to support better sleep hygiene and emotional regulation, especially for teenagers and adolescents navigating the pressures of a highly connected world.

Valiant Richey, TikTok’s Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach and Partnerships, emphasized the importance of these tools. “People come to TikTok to learn, share experiences, and connect with communities. That’s why we’re proud to introduce tools that not only support digital well-being but also empower our community, especially young users, with a safe and supportive space to explore and navigate complex emotions.”

Expanding Mental Health Education in Africa

At the summit, TikTok also announced the expansion of its Mental Health Education Fund to include organizations in Sub-Saharan Africa for the first time. This initiative, launched in 2023, has already supported global organizations by generating over 173 million impressions, 600,000 new followers, and 200,000 web visits.

Three African organizations have been selected as inaugural recipients: the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative, and Kenya’s Mental360. These groups will receive funding and platform support to create locally relevant content that raises awareness, reduces stigma, and encourages open conversations about mental health.

Enhancing Access to Mental Health Support

TikTok is also expanding its in-app mental health helpline resources across Africa. Building on a successful pilot in France, this feature will soon be available in several African countries. Users will have access to local helplines that provide expert support when reporting content related to suicide, self-harm, hate, or harassment.

These partnerships offer essential services such as counseling, advice, and free psychological support. While TikTok continues to monitor and remove harmful content, users can now connect directly with these organizations for personalized assistance.

Introducing Mental Health Ambassadors

In partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), TikTok has launched a new initiative called Mental Health Ambassadors. This group consists of verified healthcare professionals from the WHO Fides Network, including Sanam Naran from South Africa, Dr. Claire Kinuthia from Kenya, Doctor Wales from Nigeria, and Doctor Siya from South Africa.

These ambassadors will play a key role in promoting mental health awareness and providing expert guidance on the platform.

A Commitment to Digital Safety and Innovation

The Digital Well-Being Summit reflects TikTok’s broader strategy to address digital harms through innovation, collaboration, and empathy. By combining advanced safety technologies, expert partnerships, and active community engagement, TikTok continues to lead the way in creating responsible and empowering online environments for African users.

Yusuf Akoojee, Marketing Director at Spectra, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership. “At Spectra, we are excited to be partnering with TikTok and believe technology should enhance human wellbeing and ensure safety at every touchpoint. Our partnership with TikTok for the Summit reflects our shared vision of creating digital environments that are not only innovative but also secure and supportive. Together, we’re advancing solutions that prioritize both mental health and online safety for communities everywhere.”