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Peer Group Chat: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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How is the peer group chat delivered?

The chats are delivered via a website application called Chatwee that enables real-time, live chat functionality. It includes a mobile-ready social chatbox and a widget that has been installed on our website to set up a customisable chat experience.

How do I access the chat?

You can access the chat on any device by visiting our Peer Group Chat page and scrolling down to the 'Participate in our Peer Group Chat' section.

Can I participate on a mobile?

You can access the chat via our Peer Group Chat page. Once the page has loaded, click on the speech bubble in the bottom right hand corner of the screen as this will open up the window for you to then login, sign up or enter as a guest.

Do I need an account?

You will be asked to 'login' if you are a returning participant. For all new participants, you can choose the option to 'sign up' OR enter as a 'guest'. The guest option will only enable you to view the chat. If you wish to contribute to the discussion by commenting and responding to fellow participants, then you will need to ‘sign up’ by entering an email address, password and an unidentifiable username.

Once you have entered your email and password, an email verification code will instantly be sent to your email address. Once applied, you can enter the meet-up.

What web browser is best to use?

For best results we recommend using Firefox, Safari or Chrome, although any of the following browsers will enable you to access and contribute to the chat: Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Safari and Edge browser. We are currently aware of an issue activating the user menu in Chrome and are following this up with the vendor.

Is the chat safe?

We have created guidelines to ensure that the chat is a safe and supportive space for online peer support. These guidelines are acknowledged by all participants before entering the chat and will be continually reviewed in collaboration with participants. You can view the guidelines on our Peer Group Chat page.

You can read our privacy policy for more info on what SANE collects and what we do and don’t do with it. We are bound by and adhere to the requirements of the Health Records Act and Privacy Legislation.

What if I am having a tough time and need immediate support?

This online peer meet-up is a space for peer support and is not appropriate if you are in crisis or at risk of harm. In the case that you are at risk, we will be directing you to crisis services. If there is an immediate risk, we will work with you to reach out to emergency services.

Can I use my real name or identity?

Do not use your real name or a username you use other websites, services and social media. The group chats remain anonymous to enable participants to share their experiences without concern of being identified. You may also wish to think about the pros and cons of using the same username for groups and the forums.

How much is this going to cost?

There is no cost to the participant.

How do I comment in the chat?

Move your mouse cursor to below the chat feed and click on the box where it says 'type here...'. If this box is blanked out or you are having trouble typing inside the box, you may be entered as a 'guest' which only allows you to view the chat, not comment. Please logout by clicking on your username on the top left-hand corner of the chat window and select 'exit chat'. You will then need to follow the 'sign up' process to allow you to contribute to the meet-up.

How do I react to other participants' comments in the chat?

Click on the three dots at the right hand corner of the comment. This will allow you to respond with an emoji.

Can I participate without having to 'sign up'?

At sign up, click 'enter as a guest' and this will allow you to view the live chat. If you wish to contribute to the chat by messaging and responding to other participants, then you will need to go through the simple process to 'sign up'.

I’m under 18, can I join the chat?

Chats are for people over 18. If you are under 18 check out eheadspace meet-up for young Australians.

Can I change my username?

Once you are in the chatroom, click on your profile name in the top left-hand corner and select 'edit profile'. You can then change your username and click 'update'. Please create a username that is unidentifiable to ensure your privacy. You do not need to enter a location, website or bio when updating your profile.

I’ve forgotten my password to the chat, what do I do?

Click ‘reset password’ in the login window and be sure to check your junk mail for an email with your new password.

How can I message a participant privately within the chatroom?

As this is a group support service, we do not allow private one-to-one direct messaging between participants. The meet-up is facilitated by peer support workers and moderated by counsellors behind the scenes to keep everyone safe – peer workers and moderators may direct message you at times.

What happens when someone is using foul language and is being disruptive?

We have created guidelines to ensure that the chat is a safe and supportive space for online peer support. This includes being respectful of others and refraining from publishing any content that is obscene or offensive.

You can view the meet-up guidelines on our Peer Group Chat page.

Can I view the chat after it has taken place?

You can view a copy of the transcript via our website a few days after the group on our Peer Group Chat page.

How can I provide feedback on the group chats?

At the end of each chat you will be asked to complete a short 3 minute survey. We really value your feedback as this will help us to understand whether this service is beneficial and allow us to make it better for you and others.