Challenges and opportunities in the provision of mental health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond

The provision of services to people with mental health problems and their families has been substantially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Often face-to-face clinical work had to be replaced with telehealth, in line with COVID-19 regulations of social distancing. Currently, different types of online services have been implemented to meet the mental health needs of the population. This change from face-to-face to online service provision has been disruptive to many South Africans and at times resulted in people not being able to access these services. Aim: This chapter aims to describe specifically the use of online psychological service delivery pre-COVID-19 and during the lockdown. Method: We conducted a literature review exploring the delivery of psychological services through online channels pre-COVID-19 and during the lockdown. We highlight lessons learned and opportunities for psychological service provision beyond the pandemic. Conclusion: We conclude that online service platforms can increase access to psychological services and identify strategies that can be adopted to strengthen service provision.