Mental health startups today are struggling to meet demand. With the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic startups that offer virtual treatments and therapy is increasingly being termed as “essential”. According to data compiled by tracking company App Annie, average hours spent on mental health and fitness apps spiked in the US about 30% from December 29 to March 1. As pandemic related stress continues to escalate amongst populations, some of them are truly bringing about a positive change to our lives.

1. Happify

Established in 2012 in New York City, their vision is to use cutting-edge science and innovative technology to empower individuals to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. The company consists of researchers, healthcare professionals, scientists, and gamers who are passionate about creating new approaches to help people improve their mental and well-being. Available as an app on both Android and iOS and on the web, Happify’s platform consists of programs, science-based activity and games, meditations and also includes inspirational and informative content. It also helps measure progress through insights and daily reports.

2. Talkspace

Talkspace is a leading online therapy provider based in the United States. Founded in the year 2012, Talkspace connects individuals with mental illnesses to licensed therapists. Therapy sessions can be conducted via audio, video, and even text messages. The company has specialized sessions for teens, adults, and even couples. They have several subscription plans and also have tie-ups with medical insurers. As a leader in the modern virtual mental health landscape, they’re offering free sessions to frontline workers during the pandemic and additional discounts on other services.

3. Wysa

Wysa is an Indian mental health startup that has seen exponential growth with the onset of the pandemic. It features a unique blend of artificial intelligence with human psychologists. Wysa boasts of its mass customization where even basic services are tailored to individual needs. Additionally, it also features a toolbox with various self-help techniques and access to a professional psychiatrist at a nominal fee.

4. Unmind

Unmind’s vision as a company is to build mentally healthier workplaces. They help employees lead more fulfilling and balanced lives by changing the way organizations think about mental health. Unmind firmly believes that through the right workplace mental health initiatives, employees can prevent mental health problems. Their platform features digital tools that are clinically backed along with insights through reports.

5. Psylaris

According to CEO, Mike Veriel, technology can play a big role in mental healthcare. He gives paramount importance to the therapist-patient relationship and firmly believes that technology is not taking that way rather it is making more time for that. The VR solutions that Psylaris has to offer are an addition to the sessions with the therapist and provide a more intensive treatment at no additional cost. Their very first product helps patients with PTSD disorder.

6. Braive

Braive offers courses for common mental health challenges on the basis of CBT treatment guidelines and manuals. CBT is commonly known as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. CBT is a type of psychotherapy treatment that aims at changing behaviour and thinking patterns thus bringing about a change in the way people feel. Founder and psychologist Henrik Jahren, made of the available e-learning tools to aid along with his traditional treatment.

7. Moodpath

This German startup helps patients keep track of their moods. The startup targets people particularly suffering from depression and bipolar disorder. The app provides support during tough times and fastens the recovery process. The app of Moodpath also produces an electronic document every hour with monitoring results. It also contains psychological exercises and educational videos to strengthen mental health.