The Mental Health Crisis

In a similar vein, mental health 2.0 companies re-built the traditional models of care — provider directories and marketplaces — in a digital way. Headspace, Meditopia and Calm expanded how and when one could practice meditation and mindfulness and built massive businesses. On-demand therapy platforms Talkspace and BetterHelp allowed patients to vi... See more

As we slowly emerge, we hope to witness a transition from a diagnostic to a preventative care mental health approach, driving increased adoption of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and alternative forms of coaching. Should such care become mainstream, how will we be able to expand access and solve the supply constraints of licensed therapists tod... See more

These technological advances come at a time when the need for mental health care is particularly acute: According to a report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the United States experienced mental illness in 2020. And the numbers continue to climb.

Although A.I. technology can’t address the scarcity of qualified mental health care providers — there are not nearly enough to meet the country’s needs, said Dr. Bentley — there’s hope that it may lower the barriers to receiving a correct diagnosis, assist clinicians in identifying patients who may be hesitant to seek care and facilitate self-monit... See more

Talented individuals and startups have recognized the gaps in mental healthcare industry, but I worry that they’re trying to solve this disjointed industry with more disjointed offerings. There are over 170 mindfulness and meditation apps out there, 140+ tele-therapy platforms (Talkspace, BetterHelp), digital cognitive behavioural therapy apps (Unm... See more

A reason for optimism is that Gen Z’s know their mental health is poor, and they’re taking action. Talking about depression is no longer stigmatized; more and more people are going to therapy. And new companies are emerging to provide support (e.g., Pace, Headway, Sondermind, Grow).

In the U.S. alone, 46% of people will experience some form of mental illness over the course of their lifetime. This is driving our nation to spend $238 billion annually on mental health treatment and services, up more than 100% from 2005 levels. Democratized by providers like Modern Health (employee wellbeing platform), Real (digital therapy membe... See more