At the ICT&health World Conference in the Netherlands, eMHIC’s Executive Director, Professor Anil Thapliyal, addressed global healthcare leaders, innovators, and policymakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Health and the WHO on Wednesday, 29th January 2025, on the transformative role of digital solutions in mental health care. The conference, held at MECC Maastricht, is a premier event for those committed to advancing healthcare, featuring influential organisations shaping the future of the healthcare sector globally.

Anil’s keynote highlighted the unprecedented demand for mental health services worldwide, driven by the social shifts following COVID-19, economic challenges, and the impacts of climate change. He emphasised the urgent need for innovative, accessible solutions to meet the growing mental health crisis. While digital tools have shown potential, they often function as supplements to existing systems rather than catalysts for transformative change.

Despite these challenges, the integration of digital mental health solutions offers a critical opportunity to enhance access, improve outcomes, and tackle systemic issues such as workforce burnout, stigma, and geographical barriers. Some countries have set a powerful precedent, demonstrating how evidence-based approaches, consumer engagement, and supportive infrastructure can lead the way in overcoming these obstacles.

As the global community looks ahead, eMHIC remains at the forefront of informing and advancing digital mental health initiatives, committed to creating a future where mental health care is universally accessible, timely, and effective.