Digital Mental Health Innovations in India​

Mental health as a subject has largely remained in the fringes in India, owing to its deep rooted stigma, taboo, and myths. The prevalence of mental health issues has been further complicated by limited access to mental health services and shortage of mental health specialists. However, the last few years coupled with the recent Covid-19 pandemic have been instrumental in accelerating the urgency for mental health awareness. This has led to significant digital and technological innovations addressing the mental health service delivery gaps.

Healthark Insights and CIIE.CO, one of the leading technology business incubators in India, have come together for this critical landscape study of the digital mental health sector in India. With a focus on analysing the gaps and opportunities in the ecosystem, the research combines insights from secondary data as well as in-depth interviews with multiple industry stakeholders such as mental health professionals, startups and investors. The report presents startup opportunities through a ‘care continuum model’ which closely aligns with the typical journey of a mental health patient. Case studies of mental health startups showcase innovation in products, services or business models. 

 This report aims to accelerate the discourse on Digital Mental Health in India and evangelise startup innovation in the sector.

    • The report analyses the existing gaps and challenges in the mental health sector in India.
    • It combines insights from secondary research and in-depth interviews with multiple industry stakeholders such as mental health professionals, startups and entrepreneurs, and investors.
    • It presents potential startup opportunities through a “Care Continuum” model which closely aligns with the typical journey of a mental health patient.
    • Case studies of mental health startups from India and abroad showcase product, service or business model innovations.
    • The report also analyses key disruptive factors that will continue to drive the future of mental health in India.
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