Apps, digital platforms, and telehealth are transforming the way individuals and organizations approach mental health care. Historically, mental health technology has developed in response to changing scientific, societal, and technological contexts, evolving from early mechanical tools to today's digitally connected platforms.

The first teleconsultations date back to 1969 at Massachusetts General Hospital; however, it was only in the 1990s, with the more widespread use of the internet, that early telemedicine truly began. It wasn’t until the "digital wave" of the 2010s that online therapy, mental health apps, and even AI-powered diagnosis started to emerge.

Today, technological progress is such that health tech is everywhere, and digital platforms have become essential parts of public healthcare offerings. This, of course, brings both positives — such as reducing stigma through increased access — and challenges, such as safety and privacy concerns.

With technological advancements, the rise of mental health awareness, increased adoption of healthtech, the need for more accessible care post-pandemic, and the rise of hybrid and remote work, the digital mental health market has experienced rapid growth. The global market is expected to exceed $33 billion in 2025 and reach over $150 billion by 2034.

This growth is also due to better accessibility. Digital platforms provide support anytime, anywhere, resulting in higher engagement through gamified and user-friendly apps that encourage self-awareness, early intervention, prevention, and personalised care.

These new tools might look shiny and exciting, but companies should not rush to try them all. There are several steps to take before adopting and implementing a mental health tech tool in your workplace:

Ensure the tool you choose respects your country's legislation, such as GDPR.

In an increasingly remote-first world, integrating mental health technology has become a crucial pillar of workplace wellbeing strategies. These tools provide scalable, personalised, and accessible support for all employees — helping companies foster healthier, more resilient teams.