Swipe Right for Empathy: This App is Like Tinder for Mental Health

Mental health challenges are real. However, the services to support them often come with long waitlists, costly fees, and sometimes daunting stigma. Fortunately, a fresh approach to support has arrived – and it’s called Kuky. Developed in Australia and launched in December 2024, Kuky is a peer-to-peer support mental health app that matches people navigating similar life challenges, helping them feel genuinely heard and understood when it matters most.

Unlike public mental health forums or social media groups, Kuky offers one-on-one connections based on shared emotional journeys. Whether you’re dealing with grief, burnout, anxiety, chronic illness, or a major life change, the mental health app’s unique process pairs you with someone who truly ‘gets it.’ This means your conversations happen in a private, empathetic space. Without the delays or barriers often experienced with traditional clinical services.

Kuky starts by having every user upload a short video introduction explaining a bit about themselves and why they’ve joined. A dedicated team then carefully reviews this video to guarantee authenticity and safety. Next, AI-powered sentiment analysis matches you with someone whose values, emotions, and experiences closely align with your own. Once matched, users can start messaging, and video or audio calls unlock only after exchanging a few messages, allowing both users to build trust gradually.

Kuky is serious about safety and quality. Despite having over 2,000 users so far, the app rejects 58% of videos outright and sends 30% back for clarification. Only about 9.2% of applicants are accepted, underlining its commitment to cultivating a trusted, supportive community.

According to founder Armin Nehzat, the prevalence of platforms like Kuky is more important than ever, as traditional online forums can feel overwhelming or impersonal, and many Australians hesitate to share their struggles publicly. Meanwhile, mental health professionals face demand that often leaves people waiting months for care. In fact, average waits exceed 2.5 months in some cases. Kuky fills the gap by providing immediate peer connection and empathetic listening, making it easier to feel less alone during tough times.

Armin is also quick to clarify that Kuky isn’t a replacement for therapy or crisis support. Instead, this mental health app offers a powerful complement – using technology to foster human connection, not replace the therapist . And, offering a place where you can both receive and give support based on real, shared experience.