The Need of Online Counselling to Enhance Mental Health among Students in Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the need of online counselling to enhance mental health among
students in higher learning institutions. The study employed a qualitative research approach
in which 40 participants were involved. These were purposefully selected from two higher
learning institutions in Tanzania - 30 were students and 10 were counsellors. In-depth
interviews and Focus Group Discussion were used to collect data from the respondents. The
findings revealed that through online counselling, it is easy to access psychosocial therapy,
maintain privacy, conduct time/cost-friendly therapy, access services, allow freedom of
expression as well as allow easy feedback and follow-up. Also, network connectivity problems,
bundle challenges, fear of online hacking and failure to understand clients’ feelings were
revealed to be challenges on the use of online counselling. However, awareness on the
importance of online counselling, capacity building on the forms of online counselling,
availability of free Wi-Fi in university campuses and halls of residence, reduced cost of bundles
and provision of university offers as well as formation of online counselling support groups
were earmarked as strategies for enhancing online counselling among undergraduate students
as a way of enhancing their mental health.