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A broader view on mental health and its growing visibility

Laura Tibuleac

· 3 min read
A broader view on mental health and its growing visibility
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease. Mental health, therefore, is an essential component of overall health.

What Determines a Healthy Mental State?

Mental health is influenced by various individual attributes such as thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. However, these are often shaped by external social, cultural, political, and economic factors, leading to emotional crises that frequently go unnoticed. WHO estimates that 76% to 85% of people with severe mental disorders do not receive the necessary treatment, remaining unheard of by society. Recognizing the critical importance of mental health, WHO has launched a comprehensive mental health action plan that will extend to 2030. This plan aims to enhance information systems, implement preventive strategies, and bolster mental health research globally, with tailored approaches for different regions.

The Impact of Poor Mental Well-being on Companies

Burnout has emerged as one of the most pressing workplace mental health issues. Intensified by the pandemic, burnout leads to numerous mental and physical problems, adversely affecting businesses with unpredictable costs and serious repercussions. The rise of technology and constant connectivity has blurred the boundaries between personal and work life, making it difficult for employees to disconnect and recharge.

Workplace and Mental Well-being

Burnout reduces productivity, impacting not only individuals but entire teams. A single burnt-out employee can cause a 15% drop in productivity. Burnout also leads to higher turnover rates, increasing recruitment costs. Beyond burnout, various personal issues such as financial stress, parenthood, and relationship problems can negatively impact mental health, making it crucial for workplaces to recognize and address these challenges.

Mental Care Apps

The tech industry has developed numerous mental health apps in response to WHO's call to alleviate the global mental health burden. These apps cater to various needs, from dealing with depression to managing stress and fostering healthy social relationships. Some offer therapy through online sessions or text, while others provide coping mechanisms through games or activities designed to reduce stress and improve focus. There are also apps targeting addiction, sleep issues, and overall well-being through meditation. While many meditation and sleep apps are free, therapy apps can be costly, raising accessibility concerns.

Do People Pay for Their Mental Health?

The willingness to invest in mental health varies. Therapy is becoming more accepted, even in developing countries, and the stigma surrounding mental health is diminishing. However, therapy costs have risen, and a lack of education on mental health issues can deter people from investing in their well-being. Apps offer a more approachable option, but full access to their benefits can also be expensive.

Can Companies Help?

Absolutely. Companies not only can help but are increasingly required to support their employees' mental health as part of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) mandates. Enter Mindgram, a mental health app designed specifically for companies to offer their employees support with both work-related and personal challenges. Companies like Volvo, Orange, and Pfizer already use Mindgram.

What Sets Mindgram Apart?

Mindgram is tailored for companies to maintain their employees' well-being through a holistic approach to mental health. Unlike other well-being apps, Mindgram provides a wide range of services, including online therapy, text support, psycho-dietitians, child and adolescent psychologists, and business mentors to address financial and work-related goals. Employers can subscribe to the platform, giving their employees access to these comprehensive resources, enhancing both mental and physical health.

Investment Opportunity

Mindgram, already boasting 140 clients including DB Schenker, Bolt, and ING, is a startup focused on holistic well-being. Currently available in English, Spanish, and Polish, Mindgram aims to support 37 languages by the end of the year. With a customer retention rate of 94% and platform engagement twice the industry average, Mindgram has successfully completed pre-seed and seed funding rounds and is now moving to Series A. The goal is to become the leading B2B well-being platform in Europe and select Latin American markets.

Explore this investment opportunity here.

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