In early 2020, I was approached by an individual who highlighted a major issue that has been greatly affecting numerous Nigerian youths – the lack of attention and awareness surrounding mental health. In Nigeria, mental health is not given the serious consideration it deserves, and this contributes to the prevalence of conditions such as depression.

The situation is further exacerbated by the underreporting of suicides, making it challenging to gather public and accessible data that could shed light on the extent of the problem. As a result, the gravity of the situation remains largely unnoticed. In the absence of proper support and intervention, individuals often resort to coping mechanisms involving addictive substances, which can ultimately lead to addiction.

Motivated to address this pressing issue, I conceptualized a solution called UrOkay. The name itself reflects the mission to assist individuals suffering from addiction and depression through affordable teletherapy. By leveraging the power of technology and remote communication, we aimed to make mental health support more accessible and cost-effective for those in need.

UrOkay provides a platform for individuals to receive therapy and support from licensed professionals remotely. Through teletherapy sessions, individuals can access the help they require in a convenient and affordable manner, breaking down barriers such as geographical constraints and high costs typically associated with in-person therapy.