US-based mental health app WhiteFlag has joined StartEngine, a crowdfunding platform backed by businessman Kevin O'Leary, in an effort to raise funds.

Founded in 2020, WhiteFlag provides peer-to-peer support for individuals dealing with mental health challenges.

Using the funding from its 90-day fundraising campaign, the app aims to introduce new features, including group support chats and mental health resource guides.

The firm will also use the capital to increase its user reach.

WhiteFlag chief impact officer Dr Roshni Patel said: "Having dedicated over a decade to the practice of medicine, my journey has always been driven by a profound desire to serve others.

"I'm committed to continuing my support of WhiteFlag's growth and breaking down the stigma behind seeking help.

"With the StartEngine campaign, other investors, healthcare professionals and advocates now have the chance to get behind a mission-driven company that is reshaping mental health conversations."

Since its launch, WhiteFlag has received $2.5m from private investors and registered a tenfold increase in its active user base.

The app has had more than 105,000 downloads and hosted more than one million support messages to date.

WhiteFlag CEO Jonny McCoy said: "My experience with support groups in a treatment facility taught me the power of connecting with those who understand, creating a safe space for healing.

“WhiteFlag was born from my desire to offer that same connection to others."

WhiteFlag's leadership team includes professionals with psychology and counselling experience.

The company has formed partnerships with renowned individuals such as NFL Denver Broncos player Justin Simmons and Miss USA 2022 Morgan Romano.

Simmons said: "To connect the bridge between those that have seen the light at the end of the tunnel and those who are feeling like there's no way out is what WhiteFlag does best.

"They're presenting the opportunity for others to help, without worry of being judged or ridiculed."