As ICT&health celebrates its 10th anniversary, its magazine highlights visionary leaders like our Executive Director, Professor Anil Thapliyal, who drive digital transformation in mental health. We are incredibly proud of Anil’s leadership and dedication to making digital mental health solutions accessible, inclusive, and genuinely transformative.
The significance of digital mental health has never been more apparent. Post-pandemic pressures, workforce constraints, economic uncertainty, and climate-related stressors have led to an unprecedented global demand for mental health care. In this context, Anil has become a central figure, driving forward innovative solutions and advocating for a cohesive integration of digital tools into mainstream care.
An Inspiring Keynote at ICT&health World Conference 2025
On January 30, 2025, Anil delivered a compelling keynote at the prestigious ICT&health World Conference in Maastricht, Netherlands. His address, “Reimagining Mental Health Care: Leveraging Digital Solutions for Enhanced Access and Outcomes,” deeply resonated with policymakers, researchers, healthcare providers, and industry leaders.
Tom Xhofleer, CEO at ICT&health, reflected, “The ICT&health World Conference 2025 was a powerful testament to digital health’s transformative potential, particularly in mental healthcare. Professor Thapliyal’s keynote was not only insightful—it was a call to action. His vision aligns perfectly with the urgent need for scalable, accessible, and effective mental health solutions. It was an honor to feature Anil as our cover story. His leadership is driving real, tangible change.”
Gabriela Caceres Williams, Youth Representative at the ICT&health World Conference 2025, emphasized the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping the future of digital mental health: “Being one of the few youth representatives at the ICT&health World Conference was an incredible opportunity, and I’m deeply grateful to Professor Thapliyal for ensuring diverse voices were part of the conversation. His keynote reinforced that accessibility isn’t just about having digital tools, it’s about making sure support reaches the right people at the right time. Yet, too often, the conversations shaping mental health policy and innovation don’t reflect the diversity of those most affected. I was glad to share my perspective, knowing that real progress comes when people of different backgrounds, experiences, and ages are truly heard.”
Sandra Ponen, Health App Library Manager at Healthify, shared her experience: “As a fellow Kiwi attending the conference, seeing Professor Thapliyal present filled me with immense pride. Anil’s passionate keynote was met with enthusiastic applause, affirming digital innovation as the future of mental health—essential for improved access, early intervention, and personalized care globally. His vision connects deeply with the universal challenges health systems face worldwide. At Healthify He Puna Waiora, we greatly value the international networks and collaborations Anil cultivates.”
Caroline Figueroa, Assistant Professor in Digital Health Equity, further emphasized Anil’s impact: “Professor Thapliyal’s talk was inspiring and highlighted why digital mental health interventions are crucial globally, particularly relevant to the Netherlands, where wait times exceed 14 weeks for treatment. He brought attention to critical issues like suicide prevention, advocating urgently for equitable, inclusive, and effective digital health solutions. His emphasis on designing digital tools to meet diverse societal needs deeply inspired me to contribute meaningfully alongside eMHIC.”
Reflecting on this remarkable event, Anil expressed, “It was an honor to keynote the ICT&health International Conference. The energy in Maastricht underscored a shared global vision—that mental health care is at the brink of transformative evolution, shaped by the insights and dedication of committed leaders worldwide.”
Anil also chaired an exclusive round-table discussion on the subject, bringing together prominent international and Dutch leaders and stakeholders. This side-event was organized jointly by the Dutch Association of Mental Healthcare Providers and Addiction Care, De Nederlandse GGZ, and the Dutch mental healthcare provider Dimence Group.
Digital Transformation: The Core of Mental Health Innovation
At eMHIC, we firmly believe digital mental health requires more than incremental improvements—it requires a fundamental rethinking of how we provide care. Anil advocates for a seamless integration of digital solutions into healthcare systems, co-designed directly with the end-users.
Under Anil’s guidance, eMHIC fosters global collaborations, disseminates best practices, and supports government strategies and expert-driven interventions. eMHIC is a dynamic knowledge hub that unites stakeholders across various sectors to deliver impactful, sustainable mental health solutions.
Expanding Access and Reducing Barriers
One of the most pressing challenges in mental health today is equitable access. Digital solutions, including AI-driven tools, telehealth, and culturally adapted resources, hold tremendous promise to bridge gaps, especially in underserved or remote communities.
Anil’s vision extends beyond technological advancements. He prioritizes the safety, effectiveness, and cultural competency of these tools. “Mental well-being is not about economic status,” he emphasizes. It’s about ensuring everyone has timely and culturally relevant support, no matter their background.”
A Global Call to Action
In line with Anil’s passionate advocacy and strategic vision, eMHIC invites policymakers, healthcare leaders, innovators, and community representatives to continue the discussion on digital transformation in mental health at the ICT&health World Conference 2026 (January 27-29, MECC Maastricht, Netherlands). This event remains the key platform for pioneering insights and collaborations shaping the future of healthcare.Follow ICT&health on LinkedIn here.
