Ray of Hope utilizes a peer-to-peer approach, where trained lay individuals, who are often community members themselves, are trained to deliver mental health services and support to those in need. The program aims to improve access to mental health care and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness in the community.
The trained lay individuals are taught to provide basic counseling and support, as well as to identify and refer individuals with more serious mental health conditions to formal mental health services when needed. Ray of Hope also provides training and support to the peer health workers, helping to build their skills and knowledge in mental health and enabling them to provide better care and support to the community. The Peer Health Model for mental health has been successful in improving access to care and support for individuals in the community and reducing the burden of mental illness in the region.