India, home to 1.4 billion people, is grappling with a significant mental health crisis. More than 200 million Indians are struggling with mental health problems, yet over 80% of them do not receive professional treatment. This gap is further magnified in rural areas, where over 65% of the population resides.
A lack of awareness, stigma, and an acute shortage of mental health professionals are key barriers preventing access to care.
Stories of individuals silently battling mental health challenges—a young woman with postpartum depression in Bihar or a corporate employee in Bangalore suffering through panic attacks—are not isolated cases. These challenges reflect the broader struggle faced by millions across the country. In this context, digital therapy platforms are emerging as a promising solution to bridge these gaps.
The role of digital therapy platforms
Digital mental health platforms offer users easy access to therapy, professional support, and resources from the comfort of their homes. These platforms are addressing some of the most pressing issues in mental healthcare—affordability, accessibility, and stigma.
The government has already recognised the importance of digital interventions. In October 2022, India launched the National Tele Mental Health Programme, TeleMANAS. This initiative provides free tele-mental health services through 46 working centres spread across the country. By 2023, TeleMANAS received over 4,70,000 calls, all promptly attended to by professional mental health specialists. This shows the scale of demand and how effectively digital platforms can meet it.
Accessibility and affordability
One of the standout advantages of digital platforms is their affordability. Traditional offline counselling costs anywhere from ₹1,500 to ₹5,000 per session, putting it out of reach for many. In contrast, digital therapy apps provide much more affordable options, enabling a larger section of the population to seek help. For individuals living in remote areas, these platforms offer a lifeline, eliminating the need for travel to urban centres.
These platforms also address the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. Many individuals hesitate to approach counsellors due to the fear of being judged. Digital therapy allows users to maintain anonymity, creating a safe space to discuss their mental health concerns without societal pressure.
The role of technology in mental health
Technology is playing a pivotal role in revolutionising mental healthcare. Innovations such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) are enabling personalised therapies and predictive diagnostics.
Chat-based AI tools offer guided interventions, while teletherapy services connect individuals with licensed professionals in real-time. For example, immersive technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) are being used for treatments such as exposure therapy, helping individuals manage anxiety or PTSD in a controlled environment.
India’s tech ecosystem is well-positioned to scale these solutions. With affordable smartphones and expanding internet penetration, digital platforms can reach a wider audience, even in rural areas. Combined with localised content and vernacular languages, these platforms can address cultural sensitivities and make therapy more relatable to diverse populations.
Addressing challenges
While digital platforms hold great promise, there are several challenges that need to be addressed. First, India lacks a robust regulatory framework to govern mental health applications. Clear guidelines must be introduced to ensure user privacy, safety, and the quality of therapy provided. Additionally, while technology can bridge many gaps, it cannot fully replace face-to-face therapy, especially for individuals with severe mental health conditions. A hybrid model that combines digital and traditional therapy may be a more sustainable approach.
Another challenge is the digital divide. While urban populations have easier access to digital platforms, rural areas still face issues with connectivity and digital literacy. Ensuring equitable access will require collaboration between the government, private sector, and technology providers.
A path to global leadership
India’s efforts to expand digital mental health initiatives place it in a unique position to set a global standard for mental healthcare. With its large population and diverse challenges, India can provide valuable insights on scaling affordable, accessible, and culturally sensitive digital therapy solutions.
Programs like TeleMANAS demonstrate the potential for digital platforms to reach underserved populations and reduce barriers to care. By investing in technological advancements, fostering collaborations, and addressing regulatory gaps, India can lead by example in transforming mental health care systems. These efforts are not just about technology but also about fostering a society where mental well-being is a priority for all.
Wrapping it up
Digital therapy platforms in India have the potential to significantly improve mental health care accessibility, affordability, and awareness. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging innovative technologies, India can redefine how mental health care is delivered, not just domestically but globally. This shift could transform millions of lives, offering a path to emotional well-being for individuals who have long struggled in silence.
The author is the founder & CEO of Veda Rehabilitation and Wellness
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinion or views of THE WEEK.