From time to time, we meet some very special people who inspire us and touch our lives meaningfully in every imaginable way. That person for us at eMHIC was Gregor Henderson.
It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the passing of Gregor Henderson, a visionary leader whose dedication to mental health, both public and digital, touched countless lives.
Gregor’s career was a testament to his passion for improving access to mental health care and the systems that support it, but it was within the digital mental health domain he found his true calling. He fervently believed that digital health tools are crucial in delivering the information, care, support and treatment for people in need, exactly when they need it. His vision was clear—by aligning digital tools with the unique needs of individuals and communities, we could achieve extraordinary outcomes in mental health care.
Gregor was always very thoughtful and an avid lifelong learner, and eMHIC’s pioneering work continually reminded him that there was always more to learn and do differently. His journey with the eMental Health International Collaborative (eMHIC) was marked by numerous achievements and moments of deep connection. He established highly productive collaborations with some of the brightest minds in digital therapeutics, focusing on critical areas such as refugee populations, those affected by natural disasters, remote and rural communities, and adolescents in low to middle-income countries. He was particularly proud of his involvement in eMHIC’s Strategy and Policy Think Tank, Roundtables, Fireside Chat Webinars, and the Annual Digital Mental Health International Congress.
Gregor’s influence extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was a warm, thoughtful, and insightful leader whose presence on the eMHIC board was deeply cherished. His ability to combine sharp intellect with kindness and humour made him an inspiring colleague and friend. As one tribute aptly put it, “Gregor tirelessly championed the role of digital mental health to improve access to information, care, support, and treatment—supporting and saving many lives”.
Gregor’s passing leaves an immeasurable void in our niche community of interest and the public health domain. Everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working with him will feel his absence profoundly. The eMHIC Board and team are immensely proud to have called him a colleague and a dear friend.
To Gregor’s family, friends, and colleagues, our deepest sympathies are with you during this difficult time. Gregor Henderson was not just a leader. He was an inspiration, mentor, and cherished friend. We will recognise the high impact of his work for generations to come.
