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Access the programme

Help is available. Here is how to reach it.

The Beside programme is free, delivered over WhatsApp, and does not require a clinical referral. If you think you might be depressed, you can apply directly.

Who it’s for

The programme is for adults who are struggling with depression.

We currently operate in Lebanon, Egypt, and Zambia. We run a small intake each month and match each person with a trained peer before their first session.

You do not need a diagnosis. You do not need to have seen a doctor. If the description below sounds like you, you can apply.

Eligibility
  • You are 18 or older
  • You live in Lebanon, Egypt, or Zambia
  • You have access to WhatsApp on a phone
  • You are experiencing low mood, loss of interest, or a feeling of emptiness most days
  • You are not currently in a mental health crisis requiring emergency care
  • You are willing to commit to one session per week for five weeks
What happens next

Three steps from today to your first session.

The process is short. Most people hear back within a week.

01

Fill in the form below

We ask for your name, country, and a brief description of what has been going on. Nothing you write is shared outside our team.

02

We match you with a peer

Within five to seven days we will contact you via WhatsApp to introduce your peer — someone who has been through depression and completed our training.

03

Your first session begins

Your peer sends you the first session materials and arranges a short call to get started. From there, one session per week for five weeks.

Apply

Request a place on the programme.

The form takes about five minutes. We read every submission personally and reply to every person who applies, even if we cannot offer a place right now.

Your details

All information is kept confidential and used only to match you with a peer.

By submitting this form you agree to us contacting you via WhatsApp to follow up on your application. We will never share your details with third parties outside the Beside programme team.

If you are in crisis

This programme is not for emergencies.

If you are having thoughts of ending your life, or you are worried about someone close to you, please reach out to a crisis service in your country. The form above is not monitored in real time.

Lebanon — Embrace1564 · embracelebanon.org
Egypt — Behman08008880700
Zambia — Lifeline933
International — Befriendersbefrienders.org
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