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How to Develop a Mental Health App: Features, Cost and Design Ideas

Svitlana Varaksina

Tech Researcher

Head of Business Development

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The demand for mental health apps is growing each year, but given the sensitive nature of the matters they address, building one is no cakewalk. In this article, we share our knowledge and experience gained from creating a mental health app to help people with mental illnesses . If you’re interested in such an endeavor, read on for advice, recommendations, and challenges.

The importance and place of mental health

In recent years, mental health has been at the front and center of public attention. And the pandemic has certainly added to the already great stress we live under. According to research by the Kaiser Family Foundation , the number of adults experiencing anxiety and/or signs of depression quadrupled in the US during the pandemic.

Topics related to mental health cover full spreads in magazines; celebrities talk openly about mental health struggles. Countries including Australia and the United Kingdom are introducing policies to tackle mental health issues .

All this considered, it’s of little surprise that the demand for mental health professionals is growing faster each year. But while it’s important to visit a therapist when one’s mental health is deteriorating, in-person treatment isn’t the only option. Mental health apps can be of great help too.

Why mobile apps?

Between 2014 and 2018, the demand for mental health apps in the UK increased 566% , according to onefourzero . That was before the pandemic. A more recent study by Acumen Research and Consulting forecasts the mental health app market to reach a value of $3.7 billion by 2027 .

Why are mental health apps so popular today?

While recognition of the importance of mental health is growing, many people are still reluctant to visit a therapist. Reasons can vary:

• Inability to pay for lengthy therapy
• Lack of time to visit a therapist for regular sessions
• Lack of flexibility and the need to adjust one’s day to fit in sessions
• The challenge of finding a good therapist
• Limited access to therapists in some countries

Stigma-related reasons:

• A belief that therapy is for lost causes and “crazy” people
• Fear that someone will know and mock
• Distrust that a therapist will not disclose mental health information
• The discomfort of talking to a stranger about deeply personal issues

Mobile apps solve most of the problems described above, at least partially. The use of mental health apps certainly adds to flexibility and eliminates the need to travel to a therapist’s office. It’s also easier to use an app discreetly than it is to hide visits to a counselor.

Most standalone apps deal with four common mental health disorders:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Bipolar disorder

At budding stages, these disorders can be managed without a therapist’s help. Apps can be great for this.

Let’s see what the mental health market has to offer.

Types of mental health apps

Mental health is a broad category, and no app can claim it covers all things related to mental health. Nor should any app do so — too much information and functionality makes any service, be it an app or a website, clunky and difficult to use.

Instead, it’s more convenient for users and developers alike to build mental health apps within various categories. Categorization helps customers find fitting solutions faster. We can separate mental health apps into the following categories:

It’s possible — and even encouraged — to combine categories . Many popular self-help apps combine features from two or more categories. For example, meditation apps like Calm and Headspace include mood trackers. Disorder targeting apps like PTSD Coach often include ample educational resources.

However, everything is best in moderation. When planning to make a mental health mobile app, keep it user-friendly and don’t overload users with unnecessary data and functionality.

How to make a mental health app

Throughout our years of work, we’ve formed a proven way to make a mental health mobile app. Here are the main steps from an idea to a successful launch of the custom mental health app , as well as some caveats pertaining to the healthcare industry that you’ll need to be aware of.

Step 1. Form a clear vision of your mental health app idea

When creating a mental health app, it’s important to have a clear idea of what kind of app you’re planning to build. You can begin by answering several simple questions:

• Is mental health the primary problem the app solves, or is it a secondary problem?
• Will your app be for a specific category of users?
• Will your app tackle a certain mental health issue, or will it be a general-purpose app to keep one’s healthy mind in shape?
• Will you create a standalone app, or will it complement in-person therapy?

What kind of app are you thinking about?

Do you want to create a digital library, an assessment app, or an app that will actively help patients through features like meditation, mood tracking, and affirmations to boost self-confidence? Or will you create a teletherapy app?

Is mental health the app’s primary focus?

There are apps that deal with specific physical issues — addictions, disabilities, chronic illnesses, rehabilitation — that offer, among other things, functionality to treat the mental side of things. Usually, these apps offer mood trackers, sleep aiding functionality, and/or meditation as a supplement to dealing with the main physical issue, to help users form healthy habits, and so on.

Who is your app's target audience?

Understanding your target audience for the mental health app is vital for finding market fit. Certain mental health issues can be pertinent to certain groups of people . You can create a mental health app for children, youth, elderly people, members of the LGBTQ+ community, immigrants, and so on. Or, alternatively, you can target the general population.

Does your app target a specific mental health issue?

Techniques to deal with disorders vary. When you build a mental illness app , you can choose a specific disorder to focus on, or you can provide help for multiple disorders and let users choose what they need help with. There are also apps that help healthy people deal with everyday stress and burnout so that it doesn’t escalate into a full-blown issue like depression.

Is yours a standalone app?

Severe conditions require a specialist’s help, but an app can still be used as a supplement. Apps that track medications, moods, and habits can be used between therapy sessions or during breaks. These apps, if developed as therapy supplements, can offer therapists access to a patient’s data (with the patient consent).

Standalone mental health apps , on the other hand, are used independently, with or without personal therapy, and the data in such apps may be disclosed by users at their sole discretion.

Step 2. Conduct competitor and market research

There are about 20,000 mental health apps across app stores. It’s not the biggest segment of the mobile app market, but nonetheless, there’s tight competition. To learn how to make an app for mental health, one of the essential steps is to look at how others have succeeded and failed.

It’s not necessary to study all 20,000 competitors, of course. Usually, it’s recommended to research the most successful apps in your niche, though it might be useful to check out several apps that failed, as they might offer valuable lessons.

Competitor analysis will allow you to define best and worst practices in your niche .

For mental health app development in particular, it will also be useful to look for reviews by medical professionals . One place to do that is One Mind PsyberGuide , a platform where psychology and psychiatry specialists review and rate apps. Reviews on this and similar platforms will help you identify the strengths and weaknesses of popular mental health apps.

Besides competitor research, market research will help you define and better understand your target audience , define your unique value proposition, choose a monetization model, and prioritize feature development.

Step 3. Develop a mental health app business plan

A business plan is a summary of the research you’ve conducted to make a mental health app. Writing a proper business plan will help you get a clear picture in your head of what you want to build and how you want it to perform.

You’ll probably introduce changes to your business plan as you go about building your mental health app, but it’s important to have as full a picture as possible before you start. This will reduce the number of trial-and-error mistakes, shorten the time to market, and lower the cost to develop your mental health app.

Step 4. Find mental health app developers

If you’re building an mental health app from scratch , you’ll need to find:

• Android and/or iOS developers
• a server-side developer
• a UI/UX designer
• a quality assurance specialist
• a project manager

You can find separate freelancers, or you can hire a full-stack team from a mobile app development company.

However, keep in mind that medical apps are tricky in ways that involve more than just technical expertise. There are legal pitfalls unique to mobile apps in the healthcare sector, recommendations from health specialists, and requirements from health authorities regarding app functionality. This is why we recommend hiring specialists with experience in health app development .

Step 5. Build an MVP for mental health app

Launching a minimum viable product (MVP) for mental health application allows you to pursue the following objectives:

• Acquire your first users
• Test the application on users who aren’t developers
• Earn early revenue
• Enhance brand recognition before the full launch

Being an abridged version of an application, an MVP is cheaper and faster to build , and launching your app with a promise to expand and upgrade it can help you generate some revenue and build brand recognition online. This revenue can go into further development, and online recognition can translate to offline clients if you have your own practice.

However, the biggest benefit an MVP brings is the opportunity to get honest feedback from users interested in the app. Feedback is even more important when creating an app to help those with mental illnesses. For people who come to your app to feel calmer, a disruptive UX or laggy performance will be even more of an issue than it might be for the average user in other types of apps.

Step 6. Monitor and analyze performance

Whether you decide to release an MVP or a full product, the launch is just the beginning of your app’s journey, and there’s a lot of work ahead.

Constant updates and improvements are a must for a mobile app to stay relevant. And to create updates that work well for your audience, you’ll need to know what it is that keeps users returning or pushes them away.

By monitoring users’ engagement metrics , you’ll be able to make better decisions about prioritizing the mental health app features, changes, and sales strategies.

Step 7. Launch your marketing campaign(s)

It’s hard to overestimate the importance of marketing for app performance. Even if your mental health app project is one of a kind — maybe it uses an innovative approach or offers a unique combination of features — to attract users, you’ll need to market it wisely.

There are a number of ways to market your mental health mobile app :

• Social media advertising
• App store optimization
• Content marketing on your company’s blog and on third-party platforms
• Press coverage in relevant publications
• Hiring influencers to advertise your app
• Noticeable presence on social media and mental health forums

Depending on your target audience’s behavior and expectations, your marketing team will help you choose an appropriate strategy and marketing channels for the best exposure.

Step 8. See that your mental health app is profitable

It’s a great idea to build a mental illness app to help people in need. However, unless we’re talking about nonprofit-owned social apps financially backed by governments, to keep afloat, an app needs a return on investment.

How to develop a mental health app that’s profitable? One way is to use unit economics to drive profit-aimed changes.

Unit economics is a tool that helps you calculate the value that a single “unit” — any quantifiable item — has for a business. In terms of mobile apps, a single user/customer is considered a unit. This unit’s value can be found by dividing your customer’s lifetime value (LTV) by the customer acquisition cost (CAC).

E = LTV / CAC

CAC = Cost of acquisition campaign / Number of customers acquired from the campaign

LTV = Average cost of conversion * Average number of conversions * Average customer lifetime with the app

If your app’s CAC is less than its LTV, it means you’re doing well. If CAC is above LTV, it means you need to change something. With the help of unit economics, you can, at the early stages:

• assess your mental health app’s potential sustainability
• forecast your app’s profits
• optimize the prices of paid in-app content
• determine optimal promotional strategies for the best profits

Step 9. Test

Testing can’t be overlooked, especially when we’re talking about apps for issues as sensitive as mental health. Test the user experience, user interface, content — everything. Proper testing will result in fewer bugs and changes, will shorten the development time and cost, and will greatly improve your reputation as a service provider.

Step 10. Continue to improve your app

Without upgrades and updates — and without following innovations and trends — any app will sooner or later sink into oblivion. That’s why it’s important not to abandon your mental health app after launch but to continuously monitor its performance , make data-based changes, and introduce updates to keep users engaged.

Best Practices for Designing a Mental Health App

Mental health specialists have recommendations for user interface and user experience design .

The main idea of mental health apps is usually to calm users. Mental health episodes can be activated by triggers and irritants; therefore, when you think about how to make a mental health tracker app, it’s of the utmost importance to consider users’ possibly fragile states.

The user experience needs to be smooth and intuitive, and your app must be easy to navigate. Although intuitiveness is important for any app, when dealing with mental health disorders like anxiety, for example, the value of intuitiveness is higher than ever.

As for the user interface, while visual content can be just about anything from photos to drawings of people or plants or animals, if we look through popular mental health apps, we can see that most of them use soothing colors in their interfaces: shades of blue, muted greens and oranges. Mental health apps are never red or black and white . Mental health specialists also advise avoiding high-contrast interfaces, sudden pop-up messages, and loud notification signals in order not to agitate users.

Audio content can be varied. Some meditation instructors go for loud affirmations to motivate their followers. However, a more traditional approach is to use calming music and quiet speech in mental health apps to make users relaxed.

You should also pay attention to the loading time and optimize content to make it load as fast as possible.

How do mental health apps make money?

Continuous development, maintenance, marketing, and support all cost money. There are several ways to make this money:

• From your related business activities
• Government funding
• Funding from professional investors
• ROI from the app itself

In this article, we’ll talk about the last option — ROI from the app itself.

These are the monetization options you can choose from for a mobile app:

• Subscriptions
• In-app purchases
• Paid downloads

Taking into account the specifics of mental health apps, ads are not recommended for monetization — they’ll disrupt the experience and might agitate users.

In-app purchases can also be annoying for users if there’s a lot of content and everything needs to be purchased separately.

Paid downloads is a valid option if your business is directly involved in providing mental health therapy and you already have a reputation as well as ways to gain app users from among your clients.

The two most-used monetization models, however, are subscriptions and freemium.

Subscription-based apps typically come with a trial period during which users have access to all content. With popular mental health apps, the trial period is up to two weeks.

The freemium model is where some content is free and access to the full scope of content is paid by either a subscription or a one-time purchase.

Subscriptions offer a smaller but continuous flow of money, whereas one-time purchases provide more money at once but not over time. Your business model will dictate what monetization model is best.

Key Mental Health App Features

Depending on the type of mental health app you’re building, some features below might be more important than others.

This is a more or less generalized list of features that might be useful for a mental health app, and your development team can create a tailored list for your app to serve your specific target audience.

What to pay extra attention to when building an app for mental health

Health-related apps — and mental health apps in particular — go through a strict verification process to be allowed in app stores. Here are the things you’ll need to take into account for your mental health app to have a successful launch.

GDPR (or similar) compliance

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of regulations pertaining to personal data security . These regulations set rules for personal data storage, processing, and transfer.

Any business that operates in the territory of the European Union or European Economic Area needs to comply with the GDPR — regardless of where the business is registered and physically located. If your app isn’t intended for use in the EU and EEA, you still need to check for similar regulations that may be in place in areas where you’re releasing your app. For example, the state of California has its own Consumer Privacy Act that’s similar to the GDPR.

HIPAA compliance

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, is US-based legislation that protects the confidentiality of people’s digital health and financial data that is available to healthcare providers and intermediaries (data storage services, lawyers, etc.). In the US, failure to comply with HIPAA will result in considerable fines and possibly lawsuits. This is one of the reasons why HIPAA compliance for software development plays an extremely important role.

To comply with HIPAA (or similar legislation in other countries), choose software developers experienced in cybersecurity and knowledgeable in data protection technologies and innovation.

For example, if you’re implementing video/audio calls or messaging in your teletherapy app, your developers should use encryption protocols.

The United States Federal Trade Commission has an interactive tool to help app developers create apps that comply with this legislation.

Clinical basis

Only about 30% of existing mental health apps reportedly took input from therapists. However, most mental health apps on the market are meditation and mindfulness apps that don’t necessarily require strict medical data. If you’re making an app to treat severe mental health disorders, it’s recommended to make it evidence-based.

Health-related apps should be based on research and medical data so as to not cause harm to users’ health. Mental health apps aren’t exempt from this rule. If you’re not a mental health specialist or a therapy business provider yourself, we strongly recommend consulting with professional therapists as to what clinical approach to use for your mental health app, what content to offer, and so on.

Besides making your app safer for users, giving it a clinical basis will add to your app’s credibility and enhance users’ trust.

Cost of creating a mental health app

In this article, we’ve lumped together multiple kinds of apps for improving mental health. Saying there’s a certain price that fits all of them would be lying. However, we can offer approximate development timeframes and the required specialists — the two factors that affect costs the most.

The team you’ll need to develop a mental health app consists of:

• Project manager
• UI/UX designer
• Android developer *
• iOS developer *
• Backend developer
• 2–3 quality assurance specialists
• Marketing specialist **

* You can choose to develop for one platform first and add the second when your first app becomes successful and starts bringing in ROI. A project manager can suggest the best option after thorough research.

** You can handle marketing yourself, hire a third-party marketing specialist, or entrust marketing to your development company if they offer such service.

As for the timeframe, it will depend on the number and complexity of the features you choose.

In our experience, a mindfulness app with complex feature like tracking, analysis, audio content, and a custom admin panel can take about a year to create and cost anywhere from $80,000 and up . We’re talking about a full app, however, and not an MVP.

A simpler self-assessment app can be built in two to five months (depending on the assessment complexity) and will, therefore, cost way less.

Mind Studios’ Expertise in Mental Health App Development

Mind Studios has ample experience creating applications to improve mental health — in particular, through mindfulness practices, meditation, and yoga. We’ve built more than one such app for our clients, and all the apps we’ve built in this niche are unique.

To learn more about mental health app development and our expertise in this niche, drop us a line via a simple form.

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Mental Health App Development: features, benefits & costs

• Healthcare apps

As an impact of the pandemic, self-care has become even more popular and omnipresent in 2024. Now everyone knows that mental health is important, but with a busy life, work, daily commute, and family, it is difficult to find time to drive to a therapy session or attend a wellness retreat. So the demand for digital solutions is growing rapidly. How to develop a mental health app that would be effective and relevant to current trends? Let’s discuss it! In this article, we’ll address what types of general mental health apps exist, how the platform can be monetized, and what key features you need. Also a bonus we will provide costs and timeframe for similar projects.

Reading time: 12 minutes

Key takeaways

• There are 5 types of mental health apps: online therapy sessions, relaxation, mood tracking, meditation, or breathing exercises
• The mental health market was valued at $4.2 bil. in 2021 and is projected to grow to $17.5 bil. by 2027
• The favored platform for mental health apps: iOS The dominant region: North America The most popular type: Depression and anxiety management
• Developing a mental health app costs around $64,000 and takes approximately 4 month

What is a mental health app

Mental health app provides tools for assessing, preventing, supporting, and regulating different aspects of mental health well-being. For example, mood, sleep, stress, or anxiety. These apps cannot replace a doctor, but they can connect users with healthcare providers, check for symptoms, and recommend the next steps.

Mental health solutions include apps in several niches: online therapy sessions, relaxation, mood tracking, meditation, or breathing exercises

In terms of design and interface, the platforms can look very different and have a diverse set of features, depending on the final goals and target audiences. So if you plan to create a mental health app , there is no pattern you can follow — UI/UX design, functionality, user flow, etc. will depend on your niche.

3 types of mental health solutions

There are many categories of mental health applications on the market, but we want to focus on the 3 major types that take over the top charts on AppStore and GooglePlay.

1. Meditation and relaxation

It is also a popular niche for developing a mental health app. Mindfulness and breathing exercises can help users unwind after a difficult day and ease anxiety and depression symptoms in the long run. The apps in this category provide guided instructions to show how to mediate and regulate your thoughts.

Popular competitors: Headspace, Insight Timer, Calm.

2. Mood and symptoms trackers

M ental health trackers provide users with tools for self monitoring, as well as a ton of insights about symptoms, triggers, and moods that can be discussed with a therapist or a doctor. They also can help with developing or dropping a habit. For example, users can learn how to journal, abandon negative thought patterns, or nail-biting.

Popular competitors: Moodfit, MindDoc, HappyMe.

3. Teletherapy  

This type of mental health application helps users have audio and video sessions with therapists. The flow is simple: a user signs up and takes a quick questionnaire about goals and reasons for the therapy. Then they get matched with licensed therapists, browse their profiles, choose a specialist, and schedule a session. 

Popular competitors: BetterHelp, Talkspace, Amwell.

Teletherapy apps vs. Traditional therapy: pros and cons

The demand for online therapy sessions and virtual mental help especially skyrocketed during the pandemic. Uncertainty, endless lockdowns, and isolation caused a lot of stress and anxiety . So, people started seeking new ways of getting mental health help and teletherapy platforms are experiencing a boom.

➕ Pros of online therapy:

• Lower costs.
• Don’t have to commute to the therapist’s office.
• Easier to schedule a session.

➖ Cons of online therapy:

• Confidentiality of personal information can be compromised.
• Video calls require a high-internet speed internet and a laptop or a smartphone (which might be inaccessible to senior users).

Why creating a mental health app is beneficial for users and owners

Mental health app development has advantages for all parties. Startups get access to a large market and solvent groups of the audience. Users get more accessible mental well-being tools. They don’t need a lot of money, time, or resources to get professional help with stress, anxiety, and mental health disorders . Finally, those platforms create a big database for monitoring and managing mental health conditions that can be used by researchers.

In a nutshell, mental health application development :

• Opens access to a wide solvent audience ;
• Makes self-care more accessible ;
• Helps users manage mental health disorders and stressful situations;
• Contributes to the creation of research materials .

What’s going on in the mental health app market

The mental health app market is booming and the demand for self improvement apps will keep growing in the upcoming years. Post-pandemic anxiety, increasing awareness of the importance of mental health, and fast speeding of technologies actively contribute to its growth.

The size of the potential audience is enormous. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 1 billion people struggle with mental disorders. One of the most common is depression which affects almost 5% of adults.

In terms of mobile applications, in 2021 the general mental health market size was estimated at USD 4.2 billion and it is expected to reach USD 5.2 billion by 2022 and USD 17.5 billion by 2027.

The most dominant platform for mental health apps: iOS. The most popular region: North America. The most popular type: Depression and anxiety management.

There are unfilled niches on the market, for example, it lacks modern and effective apps that reduce obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms or help users get their depression medication delivered. So, consider doing market research before working with mental health app developers.

Key monetization strategies for mental health app development

Mental health apps make money in three ways:

• Subscriptions . Registered users have to pay to get access to exclusive features or content. Usually, they are charged monthly or annually. It’s the most popular model for mental health applications.
• In-app ads. This model is less common, but some platforms still use it. Ads are delivered inside the mobile app in different forms: a banner, a video, or an interstitial.
• Paid sessions. Most teletherapy apps charge users per hour of the session and withhold a commission fee before paying the counselor.

Top 3 mental health apps on the market 

There are more than 20,000 mental health apps on the market as of now. Let’s dive in, discuss the main players on the market and talk about key features and monetization strategies for mental health apps they use.

BetterHelp is a mental health app founded in 2013 in California. It provides virtual counseling and therapy services via video calls and chatting functionality. The idea is simple: users get connected with licensed therapists that are available 24/7 from any location.

Key functions: user profiles, messages, live audio and video calls.

Monetization strategy: a monthly subscription ($240-600 per month depending on how many sessions you want).

Headspace was created by British entrepreneurs Andy Puddicombe and Richard Pierson. The story of the startup was unusual: Puddicombe, who was a former Buddist monk, ran a meditation clinic in London when he met Pierson, a burnt-out marketing agency director. Back then, in 2010 the importance of mental health was not on the ear, so the idea sounded irrelevant. But now Headspace has 30 million users in over 190 countries.

The mental health app provides guided meditations divided into topics: sleep, anxiety, fear of flying, stress management, and many others.

Key functions: meditations catalog, search, and dashboard with the progress.

Monetization strategy: subscription ($12.99 per month or $69.99 per year).

The MindDoc app was developed by clinical psychologists and mental health researchers to help people with self monitoring . Users can log in to their feelings and see a calendar with their main patterns and progress. Moreover, the platform has personalized recommendations and psychological exercises to boost the user’s mood.

Key functions: mood tracker, calendar, push notifications reminding you to log in your thoughts and feelings.

Monetization strategy: subscription ($29.99 for three months, $44.99 for six months, and $69.99 annually).

5 essential features for a mental health app

Set of functions for your mental health app depends on its type and goals. If you work on a mood tracker, you would prioritize a feelings checker and a dashboard with all data. If you create a meditation app, you will probably focus on content and the navigation through it.

When you plan to develop a mental health app, it is important to decide on the functionality and user flow beforehand. We put together a list of 5 key features of mental health app for online counseling.

You need to ask a user to share some information before they start using the app. For mental health platforms, registration is a must, because user experience there is connected with achieving certain goals. For example, meditate 10 days in a row or have 5 sessions with the therapist. To make sure users achieve desired results, they need to fill in a questionnaire about expectations and objectives.

Signing up is usually the first step of user experience. Therefore it should be simple, intuitive, and straightforward. You can also add alternative sign-up options, like social media accounts. 

👨‍💻 Therapist profile

The best profile page is informative yet simple. It should have the following elements: a name, age, a photo, and a bio describing the therapist’s expertise.

The purpose of this feature is to help users learn about therapists and engage them in the platform. So, profile pages should be easy to find and explore. Use UI/UX design tools to keep the navigation in your mental health solution intuitive and concise.

📊 Dashboard

When people use a mental health platform, they usually have a goal they want to reach. To keep track of the progress and display the data, apps use dashboards.

The golden rules of a good dashboard are simple: clear logic, up-to-date data, customizable elements, and visually appealing design.

📲 Notifications 

Push notifications will keep users engaged and help build relationships with customers. There are many ways you can use this feature for the app’s benefit: for instance, send a reminder of an upcoming session to show that you care about the audience, or give a promo code or a free session if a user hasn’t been in the app for a while.

📞 Audio and video calls

When it comes to teletherapy apps, chatting is a core feature, as it provides an opportunity to have a real-time session. Users should have a choice: video, audio, or text, depending on their level of comfort and trust.

Obviously, the audio should be clear and loud enough and the video should be optimized to the best quality. It mostly depends on the user’s equipment and an internet connection, but you need to make sure everything on the server side is honed for the real-time sessions.

Best practices for mental health app development 

If you want to make sure your mobile application stands out from the competitors, it is crucial to know about current trends and drifts in the market. Before you create a mental health app , think about best practices for healthcare solutions and ways to implement them. We recommend these two: personalization and gamification.

Personalization

Personalization is the way of building an app to suit the needs of a specific user. Simply speaking, it makes the solution more convenient and helpful.

Most mental health apps ask questions during the onboarding process. Such as, what is a user’s end goal, how she feels now, and how often she wants to be contacted. Within the healthcare sector, personalization of experience is really important: it connects a patient with the right provider with relevant experience and training. Would you entrust marital problems to someone who works with teen counseling only and never helped couples before? Very unlikely.

Gamification

To defuse the tension around emotional struggles and add a motivation boost, mental health app developers use gamification. It is a practice of adding game elements to mobile apps. For example, rewards, badges, or challenges.

Having gamification elements in the interface has many benefits for the user experience: it motivates the audience, helps progress better, and increases the engagement and retention rate. Good gamification balances the user’s needs and behavioral patterns with their desire to be entertained. Remember: fun in healthcare solutions is good, but it should be too much because mental health is a serious matter and should be presented accordingly.

How much does it cost to build a mental health app?

How much does it cost to create a mental health app ? How long will it take? Those questions are haunting everyone who has an idea for a mobile application. No worries, we got you covered.

Let’s break down how much the development costs for the same type of project and how long it takes.

🚨 Disclaimer: This is our estimated quote for mental health app development with basic functions and we don’t guarantee other companies have the exact costs or timelines. 

Overall, the mobile mental health app development services will cost you $64 070 and will take approximately 4 months.

How to develop a mental health app in 4 steps

Step 1: Create a solid idea. To stand out on the market, you will need a creative and definite idea. Before planning the app, think about your target audience and how your solution will help them. Who is your user? What makes you different? How will your app make money? These questions are to start exploring the idea and turning it into a business plan.

Step 2: Select a team. The right choice of developer matters. An experienced and skillful team can strengthen your idea, assist in marketplace research and help you achieve the desired results. Take your time when choosing a developer, check the portfolio with relevant cases and verify credentials.

Step 3: Develop an MVP. MVP stands for a minimum viable product and helps us test an idea with real customers. Don’t confuse this stage with a prototype or a draft: MVP is a fully-functioning product, just the set of features is temporarily limited.

Step 4: Polish the product. After you receive feedback and analyze data, it is time to improve and grow. The team of developers will help you plan the scale-up, provide post-launch support, release updates, and fix any issues.

Our experience with mental health app development

At Purrweb, we know how important it is to get your idea out and test it in the real world. Therefore we help our clients rapidly launch MVP and focus on user experience. We ensure that the mobile app meets customers’ needs and that personal data is protected on all levels. 

One of our areas of expertise is healthcare app development . We provide full-cycle development services for web, desktop, and mobile platforms with custom and robust UI/UX design and firm QA control.

Online psychotherapy app

We developed a mobile app for online consultations with psychotherapists in the UK. The clients came to us amidst the pandemic and they’re goal was to create a selective service with a lot of custom options: calendar, notes, chat, video calls.

As you can imagine, there are many online therapy services on the UK market, so we had to make sure that our app really stands out. For that we:

• Added tons of custom features that clients asked us to make from scratch;
• Took the adaptive design approach to make sure the interface looks well on all devices and screens;
• Created the window management feature to let users do two things at once: for example, minimize the video call screen and take notes.

Overall, the project took our team over 8000 hours to complete. The clients were involved in the process on every step, providing their vision and feedback. Sometimes micromanagement from a hirer side can lead to a disruption of the process, but we managed to solve the situation quickly and keep the communication crystal clear without any conflicts. Want to know how? Read our case article for more details.

What is a mental health app?

Mental health app is a mobile platform that provides tools for assessing, preventing, supporting, and regulating different aspects of mental health well-being. For example, mood, sleep, stress, or anxiety.

What types of mental health apps exist?

There are 3 most popular categories of mental health platforms: teletherapy, meditation, and mood trackers.

What are the top 3 self improvement apps on the market?

BetterHelp, Headspace, and MindDoc.

Can I get a good profit from a mental health app?

Yes! There are 3 main monetization strategies for mental health apps: subscriptions, in-app ads, and commissions fee for paid sessions.

What niche is available for a mental health app?

Despite a big number of apps, not all niches are filled. For example, the market lacks modern and effective apps that reduce obsessive compulsive disorder symptoms or help users get their depression medication delivered.

How do you develop mental health app?

Easy peasy! Create a defined and original idea ➡️ Find a team of developers ➡️ Create an MVP ➡️ Improve and release a final version.

Why must a mental health care app be compliant?

Mental health apps often deal with medical records and confidential personal information. Check the laws of the area you operate in and make sure you obey them.

A Complete Guide to Healthcare Mobile App Development in 2024

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Mandatory features

Let’s start with the features any app should have. This set of functionality is applicable both to healthcare mobile app development as well as healthcare web development . It shouldn't be forgotten by a business owner because every user nowadays expects to see these features in any digital solution.

Registration/Log in

Healthcare software implies a certain level of confidentiality, ergo, users should be able to get access to certain application features after completing a registration/log in process.

According to the solution specifics, there may be several options:

• user name + password
• phone number + SMS password
• phone number + automated call

However, it’s vital to keep the registration short. Do not burden new users with in-depth forms and questionnaires. If the registration is complicated or too long, the user won’t stay, which means deleting the app or completely forgetting about it.

Password reset and recovery mustn’t be eliminated. The user should be able to get access to their account no matter what and do it without putting much effort into the process.

User profile

Knowing the customer is the cornerstone of quality medical service and is essential for a healthcare provider. Personal information is the digital equivalent of gold, and the more you have it, the better.

Upon registration completion, it’s time for the user to reveal specific details about their health. For some, it might seem too invasive, but being informed about the patient’s conditions, allergies, habits, experience with therapy, and medications they are on is crucial.

Surely, the optimal profile structure will be determined by the solution’s type and the vision of a business owner, yet personalization, convenience, and clarity should remain a priority.

A calendar/symptoms tracker

This typically is “the heart” of a mental health app. During (or prior to) the mental health app development, you should think about providing the users with a convenient tool for self-monitoring. It can be a calendar with a list of symptoms, a journal, a tag system, a sleep or fitness tracker synchronized with an external device, etc. The customer should really think this one through and come up with a particular type of self-monitoring functionality chosen in correspondence with the expectations of a target audience.

For example, a mood tracker for kids should be as user-friendly as possible, while adults can handle a more complicated tag system or a digital journal.

Notifications

How to develop a mental health app that will bring actual value to users’ lives? Take care of a comprehensive notifications and reminders system both for the patients/end users and doctors.

Push notifications work great both for web and mobile and will help the audience stay on top of their game every day. Medical professionals, on the other hand, should receive notifications each time the user wants to connect or schedule an appointment.

Chat/Messaging system

Even if you’re eager to create a simple digital solution and are not planning to invest in more complex mental health app development, the application should have at least one communication tool, like a live chat or a messaging system.

In feature-packed apps, it will be a great way to establish a secure channel between a medical professional and a patient. And in a simple, one-feature solution, it is a surefire way for the user to resolve any possible issues by chatting with one of the members of a support team.

Note! All of the features listed above are mandatory. It is very hard to find a successful mental health app that doesn’t have all of them. Still, there’s an even longer list of “optional” features you might want to consider during mental health app development. Some software may have them, some may not.

Here are a few examples of functionality you might want to add into the mix:

• Order management tool
• Payment gateway
• Social media integration
• Rating system
• Gamification
• Media files upload/download
• Dashboards for doctors and admins
• Support groups, forum

How to monetize an application

The business owner should choose a monetization strategy before the process of mental health app development is over. And that is because a revenue model directly affects the application, its layout, and functionality. For example, if you have a solution with in-app purchases in mind, you can’t inform mental health app developers about that after the fact. The same goes for other monetization strategies.

Now let’s examine the most common ones.

Sell subscriptions. This approach implies granting the user access to unique content or features that are unavailable to other users. It might be a specific number of one-on-one consultations with a chosen specialist, helpful media resources (videos, podcasts, library, etc.), 24/7 support from a personal manager or therapist, and many other features.

It’s up to a business owner to determine the number of subscription plans, their cost, and their content.

Sell one-time access. This one is pretty straightforward. An entrepreneur sets up a price, and the user buys the app to get access to it. However, the owner should make sure the software is actually worth the money, is helpful, and works smoothly. There are plenty of free apps out there, and the customers should see the value in a product they’ve paid for.

Sell extra features . This strategy is also known as freemium. This principle offers a user some free content, yet a bunch of “premium” features requires payments. Some also choose to grant access to the full version for a specified time period, and once it ends, payment is required.

Sell services . An approach perfect for private practitioners. Are you a mental health professional willing to build a convenient digital platform to work on? Hire some mental health app developers, create an application, and sell your services using it.

Get revenue from ads . If content monetization isn’t your cup of tea, make money by incorporating advertising into the app. But even though it is one of the most common monetization strategies, a business owner should closely monitor the ads and cooperate only with trusted advertisers to not cause harm to the audience.

Charge medical professionals . Why charge patients when you can charge doctors for using your app? This is a great way to attract users without risking their loyalty, as all the financial obligations will be imposed on the medical professionals working on your platform.

Deciding on a tech stack

Choosing a perfect tech stack is one of the aspects of mental health app development that doesn’t really have a universal solution that will fit each and every business case. One of the best steps you can take is to hold several meetings with different mental health app developers and listen to their opinion.

At the same time, there are several things you should know to feel more comfortable while communicating with tech experts.

• The tech stack is determined by the type of app and the platform you’ve chosen. Technologies required to create a web app will differ from the tools needed to build a mobile solution.
• Innovative functionality will require the introduction of specific technologies. If you’re thinking about incorporating Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, or Virtual Reality into your solution, be ready to search for experts that have mastered certain technologies like NLTK, Flow.AI, Tensorflow, ARKit, and others.
• Your tech stack choice will influence the project’s budget. Some technologies are “pricier” than others. However, you might ask mental health app developers to offer you a cheaper alternative if possible.

Now, as for the technical tools used to create an application, let’s list the most popular ones.

For back-end: Python, PHP or PHP frameworks (Laravel, Symfony, etc.,) Ruby on Rails

For front-end : JavaScript, HTML/CSS, TypeScript, React.JS, Angular

For mobile apps : React Native, Swift, Flutter, Ionic

Databases : MySQL, Maria, PostgreSQL, Mongo

Cloud : AWS, Azure, Google Cloud

Payment Gateway : Stripe, Skrill, Paypal

Taking care of industry compliance

One of the biggest challenges a business owner will face during mental health app development is compliance. Due to the fact that patients trust the providers with sensitive data (personal and medical information), it is vital to stick to modern standards of data protection.

Specific regulations determine rules and best practices required to prevent data breaches and exposure. It is important to mention that each country has its own acts regulating sensitive information protection. For example, in the US, it is HIPAA , HITECH Act, CCPA, and others. In Canada, it’s PIPEDA, in Japan—APPI, in the EU, it’s GDPR. All of those are similar as they contain information about all kinds of obligations that healthcare providers have to the people whose sensitive info they’re handling. Yet, they still differ as the requirements may vary.

So after defining a target market, a business owner should familiarize themselves with the regulations in force on the territory of the country and find mental health app developers who know not only how to develop a mental health app but how to make it compliant. In fact, this aspect is so important that questions about compliance should be among the first ones during the interview. Meanwhile, check our HIPAA compliance checklist to gain an overview of what to expect.

Coming up with the perfect design

Typically, graphic design is one of the elements in the development process where an entrepreneur has total creative freedom and can implement any ideas, no matter how wild they may be. However, mental health app development is an exception to that rule.

Here are a few recommendations that will help you create a beautiful design that will represent your brand in the best way while still meeting the needs of the audience.

• Do not use special effects like flashing lights or loud sounds as those can be triggering
• Do not go overboard with animation or decorative fonts. They may cause trouble ingesting information
• Pick pastels or muted colors over bright ones (especially neons)
• Sounds of nature will be the best pick for audio
• Do not use more than 3-4 colors and 2 fonts
• Keep it simple and coherent

Remember that finding a therapist is a daunting, exhausting, and not exactly budget-friendly process. The design should provide the customer with a sense of relief, uplift them, and infuse hope and optimism. So while mental health app developers put energy, expertise, and effort into building an actual product, your job as a business owner is to collaborate with the design team and come up with an appropriate visual style.

Now that you have an overall perspective on how to create a mental health app, let’s discuss the pricing!

• How Much Does It Cost to Develop a Mental Health App?

If you’re reading this editorial, chances are mental health app development pricing is one of your biggest concerns. For many entrepreneurs, this information is even more important than actually knowing how to create a mental health app. So let’s get right into it!

The short answer is: it may cost you anywhere from USD 40,000 to USD 250,000. Now let’s determine where your app may be within this range.

There are some factors that form the final price. We will describe all of them briefly.

If the customer is in a hurry and requires a market-ready solution by a certain period of time, the cost typically will be higher. The tighter the deadline, the more money you’ll have to spend, as the dev team will either have to work overtime or involve more specialists to get the job done in time. Therefore, if you’re willing to cut costs, it might be reasonable to think about how to develop a mental health app without having to fit the whole process into a very short timeframe.

Set of Features

This one is not just about the number of features you plan to implement. Some of the functionality may not require that much time to incorporate into the project. The more important aspect is actually the complexity of those features and the compatibility of all the elements within a system. That is why many entrepreneurs prefer to start mental health app development with an MVP. It gives you a general idea about the market outlook, audience feedback, and the most adequate market strategy.

Team’s Structure

How many experts do you want to include, and how experienced should they be? Millions of developers know how to develop a mental health app, but it’s unlikely you will trust the project to someone who has zero healthcare-related projects under their belt.

You may hire a team consisting of seniors only. However, it will cost you a fortune. So the key here is balance. Talk this through with the chosen IT vendor, a trustworthy company will come up with a suitable option.

Team’s Location

Startuppers are usually afraid to trust mental health application development to an IT service provider not from their country. And that usually is a highway to cost overruns. Let’s take the US as an example. The average software development cost there is between USD 100 and USD 150. In Ukraine, the average hourly rate is three times lower! So if you plan on cutting costs, choose the dev team located in one of the countries known to be a good outsourcing destination.

There are many tech gurus out there who have vast experience with the most popular IT technologies. Yet, as a rule of thumb, the more specific or lesser-used tech tools you choose to include in the tech stack, the higher rate you’ll have to pay.

Cooperation model

Some cooperation models (like time and materials, for instance) imply paying solely for the IT services and nothing else. Others (like assembling an in-house team) mean that the customers also pay for the employees’ sick leaves, vacations, etc. Opt for a dedicated team or T&M model to save money.

Post-dev services

Once a business owner has figured out how to develop a mental health app and has actually received at least some kind of a functioning solution, comes the time to think about how to keep this solution competitive. A wide range of post-development services simplifies this task. Regular updates, security checks, troubleshooting, and performance enhancements are important and require spending some money. Think about which tasks can be taken care of by you or your team and which you will have to delegate.

• 4 Keys to Choosing the Right Team of Mental Health App Developers

Last but certainly not least, equip yourself with some useful life hacks that will not only make mental health app development easier but will help you find a reliable IT partner and establish some strong business connections.

#1 Industry expertise before anything

The development of a mental health app is a particularly challenging task, as even the smallest detail can make a direct impact on a real person’s health and well-being. So while looking for a digital partner that will bring your project to life, take into consideration industry expertise and not overall IT experience.

Some potential contractors may try to impress you with “years of experience” and “hundreds of clients,” but none of that really matters if the company hasn’t developed at least a few solutions for healthcare. The chosen experts must not only know how to create an app, but they must also know how to create a mental health app in particular.

You don’t necessarily have to narrow down the circle to only companies specializing in mental health software. If the provider has had experience with EHR Software Development , hospital management systems implementation, telemedicine platform creation, or special needs software building, it will be enough to prove a certain level of industry expertise. At least you will be sure that the team knows about healthcare industry specifics and will be able to deliver a relevant solution.

#2 Take a close look at the portfolio

The next step to finding a development team you’ll be satisfied with is demanding a portfolio. It is a customer’s right to ask for examples of previous work, and there’s nothing wrong with refusing to cooperate with a candidate who is not able (or not willing) to show said examples.

After receiving a portfolio, take your time examining it. Analyze all of the available healthcare-related projects. Are some of those in any way similar to something you’re willing to create? It might be the same type (mental health app development), a similar tech stack, or a set of features. Do you actually like the outcome? If the answer is yes, the team is worth your attention.

#3 Browse the web for reviews

Self-promotion is great and all, but prior to making a final decision on a contractor, you will have to look for an independent opinion. One of the best ways to do that is to search for company reviews on the Internet.

Check the available feedback on IT listings like Clutch or Manifest, and scroll down Google reviews. But what’s even more important is reading not only customers’ feedback but also reviews ex-employees have submitted. Those can be brutally honest (and not always pleasant) but will provide you with a lot of information about the actual working conditions and corporate environment. These detail may seem irrelevant, yet they are crucial. You don’t want a stressed-out, unmotivated developer who is one step from quitting work on a mental health app.

#4 Ask to create a custom development plan

One of the final stages of the dev team selection process and one of the vital stages of mental health app development is getting a ballpark estimate from the potential contractor. If the company refuses to provide you with this kind of document for free, eliminate it from your shortlist immediately. But if the team is ready to create this kind of estimation, don’t be afraid to ask for a detailed version.

The ballpark estimate is not a document containing a couple of sentences with the minimum and maximum budget you should have. It is a spreadsheet where every feature which you’ve already discussed with the team is taken into consideration and roughly estimated. This is how you know the team knows how to develop a mental health app and do it the right way. At the end of the day, it’s your money and reputation that is at stake, so there’s nothing wrong with being cautious.

• Final Words

It takes a village to build a mental health app that is functional, eye-pleasing, effective, and commercially successful. So many different aspects and detail have to be taken into consideration, so many potential problems should be prevented or fixed on the go. Yet, creating this kind of apps is something Light IT Global takes pride in. And we can help you with a multitude of healthcare-related IT tasks: from building a brand-new app to revamping an existing solution, coming up with a breathtaking design, or ensuring the top quality of your digital product.

We hope this editorial helped you understand how to create a mental health app, and if you still have questions, contact us and receive a free consultation, during which our expert will get all of your questions answered!

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Mental Health App Development: Features, Cost, And Process

High therapy costs, insurance limitations, the absence of psychological professionals nearby, and the lack of resources to commit to long-term treatment call for an immediately available, affordable solution. Mental health apps have become a way out for many.

7 months ago   •   13 min read

While the world has come to the understanding that disregarding mental health is not an option, psychological help, such as therapy, remains inaccessible for many people. High therapy costs, insurance limitations, the absence of psychological professionals nearby, and the lack of resources to commit to long-term treatment call for an immediately available, affordable solution.

Mental health apps have become a way out for many. Breathing exercises and meditations help relieve negative emotions here and now, while mood tracking and teletherapy applications work on longer-term results.

This article describes the main mental health app types, useful features to include in a mental health app, the process of developing such a solution, and the possible cost of a custom-made mental health app. 

Main Types of Mental Health Apps

Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit, Australia has seen a 50% increase in online mental health services use by young people. The same went for other countries: in March 2021, 10 out of 16 most downloaded apps were meditation tools.

This tendency lives now, too — seeing the convenience and accessibility of mental health apps motivated many users to stick to them as a daily wellbeing support.

Let’s explore the most common mental health app types. 

Meditation and breathing apps

Meditation and breathing exercise applications are the most popular mental health digital products. Applications like Headspace or Calm offer users a variety of audio recordings with guided meditations and other mindfulness practices. 

The meditations are usually divided into categories according to a request a user might have at the moment, like relieving anxiety, relaxing, focusing, preparing for a day, and so on. Plus, such apps usually have additional reading resources, relaxing background sounds, and audio stories for better sleep.

Mood and wellbeing tracking apps

Mood tracking apps allow users to record their mood, emotions, and physical wellbeing daily, so they can see the bigger picture, notice patterns, and show this information to their healthcare provider. Such apps can also be used for mental illness monitoring. 

One big plus of such apps is that they usually have a selection of moods and emotions for users to choose between, so those having trouble identifying how they feel can navigate their mental state more easily. 

Often enough, such apps also feature an AI-based chatbot or recommendation system. The app analyzes the recent mental state of a user and suggests some practices that might improve their wellbeing or even offer to consult a psychologist. 

Teletherapy apps

A teletherapy app, or virtual therapy app, allows users to get an online therapy session via video or audio call right in the application. A YouGov for Forbes Health survey explains that 63% of adults who tried teletherapy shared that it was effective.

Users can browse therapists’ profiles and select the specialists they like based on their approach, requests they work with, experience, gender, and more.

An online chat is a useful feature for teletherapy apps, too. Users can reach out for questions or immediate support from their therapists. Plus, any online therapy app needs an appointment scheduling feature and a payment gateway.

Sleep apps can record the user’s sleeping patterns and generate reports with sleep quality improvement suggestions. These apps can also include bedtime stories and relaxing sounds to help users fall asleep faster. Subtle melodies to wake up to gradually and alarms based on a sleep cycle phase help users improve their sleep, too.

Recovery apps

Addiction and eating disorder recovery apps help those recovering from a difficult mental state track their progress and receive daily support. 

Gamification is a vital part of these products, as users can receive badges or any other reward elements to celebrate their progress and stay motivated. 

Additionally, such apps should feature inspirational materials, personal success stories, and educational articles explaining the psychological difficulties the users might be experiencing. 

Another important feature to include is emergency psychological support when a user feels a relapse coming or simply needs to talk with a specialist.

Top Features for a Mental Health App

An effective feature set is half of the success of a mental health app (user-friendly design and bug-free development correspond to the other half). Remember that your users download an app to benefit from certain features, so identifying what they want to see in such an app is your primary task.

Let us help you and list the basic feature set for a working mental health app.

User profile

No matter the app type, a user profile is a basic feature you can’t skip. Your users will want to have their interaction history, payment method, preferences, and personal information saved.

Let’s now forget about two-step verification, complex password requirements, and other secure login methods, as your app will include some sensitive information. Social media log-in can be a good addition for faster access. 

Onboarding 

Through onboarding, you can learn essential information about your users, like their preferences, requests, and mental health state, to offer more customized content. Another purpose of onboarding is to teach new users how to navigate your app and what features it boasts.

Self-monitoring tools

Mood and symptom tracking can be the main feature of a dedicated mood-tracking app or additional functionality for meditation or other app types. Users should be able to select their 

• current mood (calm, sad, anxious, happy, etc)
• emotions they are experiencing (anger, disappointment, excitement, hopefulness, etc)
• wellbeing information (sleep quality, exercising, feeling tired/energized, water intake, etc.)

This data can be analyzed by AI to give users insights about their mental health and offer advice. Plus, self-monitoring can be useful for managing mental illnesses, such as depression, as users can track symptoms and their intensity.

Gamification elements

Gamification elements are extra important for recovery apps and are highly useful for meditation and sleep apps — any application requiring regular input and effort from a user. Your team can select a gamification element from a variety of available options, like badges, level system, avatar personalization, virtual shop, and so on.

Audio and video player

Meditation, sleep, and other mental health apps require an audio or a video player. Users will listen to guided meditation, ambient sounds, sleep stories, breathing exercises, or watch a yoga class. 

This simple player will need a play, stop, and pause buttons as well as the opportunity to rewind the recording. Plus, all the recordings should be organized in convenient playlists or courses so users can find the suitable one quickly.

Educational materials

A tab with useful resources about mental health importance, strategies for overcoming difficult psychological states, coping strategies, lifestyle advice, and more is a great addition to any type of mental health application. This feature is useful because it can help users gain insights into their mental health issues and equip them with practical solutions.

Chat bot and messengers

Mental health apps often incorporate chat bots or messenger systems that allow users to communicate with a virtual assistant. These bots are programmed to engage in conversations, provide emotional support, and offer information on a wide range of mental health topics.

Users can discuss their feelings, concerns, or daily challenges with these bots, which can be particularly helpful for those who may not have immediate access to a human support system. The anonymity provided by the chat bot can reduce the stigma associated with seeking help. It's a useful feature for immediate assistance and 24/7 support.

Additionally, you can integrate chats with therapists and psychologists, for example, for an extra fee or as a part of a premium version of an app. Users can pose questions they want to discuss, share positive results of therapy sessions, and get clarifications and lifestyle instructions. Plus, those users finding it difficult to start therapy face-to-face can first share their emotions in texts.

This feature allows users to have real-time, face-to-face conversations with licensed therapists or counselors. It’s convenient to add a set time limit for a video chat, let’s say 1 hour per session.

Reminders 

Mental health apps often include a reminder feature, allowing users to set notifications for various activities like meditation, taking medications, or keeping track of mood fluctuations. These reminders can be personalized to the user's routine, ensuring that they don't miss out on crucial self-care activities. This feature is highly practical in fostering consistency and helping individuals establish and maintain healthy habits.

Therapists profiles

Access to a database of therapists' profiles is another essential feature of mental health apps. Users can search for professionals who match their specific needs, such as expertise in anxiety, depression, or relationship counseling. These profiles often include information about the therapist's credentials, experience, specialties, and user reviews. 

A calendar with available time slots for online sessions is a must for a therapist profile too, so that users can book a session right away.

How to Build a Mental Health App Step-by-Step

Developing a mental health app requires careful planning and consideration to ensure it is effective, secure, and user-friendly. In this chapter, we will guide you through the essential steps involved in creating a mental health app.

Step 1: Discuss app requirements

At Perpetio, we always collect a list of app requirements from you, either on a video call or in written form. We will need to know your deadlines, app design specifications, targeted platforms (iOS, Android, both), preferred tech stack, chosen monetization model, etc.

If you don’t know the answers to some of the questions — no panic. Our sales manager will help you understand the topic and pick the best option. 

Step 2: Research and review competitor apps

Before diving into development, it's crucial to research and review existing mental health apps in the market. Study their features, user interfaces, and user reviews. A great strategy is to read the reviews on the App Store, Google Play, and the app’s social media to notice what motivates users to download these apps, which problems they face, and what is lacking in them. 

You will share your notes with a team, stating

• Which apps are your main competitors in the niche
• Which apps from your niche do you like and dislike
• What are the useful practices, design elements, and features other apps have that you want to borrow
• What other apps lack, what users are complaining about

You can use these points to create a competitive and valuable app that addresses the users' needs that other apps couldn’t. 

Of course, you don’t have to do the market analysis by yourself if you don’t have a resource or simply would rather have a professional do it for you. A Perpetio’s business analyst can perform market research for you and share the results. All we need is three answers about your future app:

• Niche (what type is your mental health app)
• Purpose (why will users download it)
• Target audience (age, region, problem they are facing)

Step 3: Interview potential users

The heart of your mental health app lies in understanding the needs and preferences of your target audience. Conduct interviews and surveys with potential users to gain insights into their mental health challenges, preferences, and expectations from an app. These interviews can help you tailor your app to meet real-life user needs and make it more user-centric.

You can perform these interviews yourself and then share your notes with the design team or trust them to interview the potential users. Interviews can be face-to-face/online meetings or just a survey in Google Forms. Remember to use open-ended questions for more comprehensive answers. 

Step 4: Consult psychologists and mental health experts

Collaboration with mental health professionals is critical to ensuring the app's content and features are well-informed and evidence-based. Your team must consult with psychologists, therapists, and counselors to gather insights into the best practices for mental health support. They can guide the types of resources, therapies, and self-help techniques that should be included in the app.

Plus, remember that you are creating a healthcare product that has a direct impact on users’ health and wellbeing. Without consulting a professional, your app will be useless at best and harmful at worst. 

Step 5: Create UI/UX design for a soothing user experience

Creating an appealing and user-friendly interface is vital for a mental health app. The design should be calming, and free from distractions, preferably with colors that evoke positive emotions. For example, the meditation app Calm boasts a vivid orange color that can be associated with a positive mood. 

Your design team has to ensure that the app is easy to use, even for individuals who may be experiencing emotional distress or never used similar apps before. Emphasize that the team should prioritize simplicity and clarity in your app's design to enhance user engagement and comfort.

Easy-to-read typography, heart-warming illustrations, the simplest navigation, and lack of complex psychological terms — your task here is to build a safe space for psychological comfort. 

Consider ambient design elements and imagery that resonate with themes of serenity, nature, or mindfulness. A calm and harmonious design can help users feel at ease when using the app, which is essential for mental health support.

You can share a mood board with visuals, typography, and app or website examples you like for designers to consider when creating the app. There will be several iterations of the UI/UX design, including

• Moodboards and initial ideas from the designer
• Wireframes with the app’s screen layout and navigation (UX design)
• UI design elements, like typography, illustrations, color palette
• Clickable prototype with a completed app look

Each of these stages will be discussed with you and you can always change the things you don’t think will work or guide the designer. 

Step 6: Development with a focus on security

In the development phase, you'll need to decide between native and cross-platform development approaches for your mental health app. 

Native development for iOS and Android offers optimized performance and platform-specific features, while cross-platform development can save time and resources. The choice should align with your app's specific needs. If you're unsure which approach is best for your project, Perpetio’s experts can hold a free consultation and help you assess your app's goals, budget, and technical requirements to make an informed decision.

When developing your mental health app, security is paramount. Users are entrusting sensitive and personal health information to your platform, so data security and privacy should be a top priority. 

Ensure that your app complies with relevant data protection regulations, like the General Data Protection Act in the EU or HIPAA for the apps containing medical information in the US. Plus, your development team has to integrate end-to-end encryption for sensitive user communications. 

Security measures also include protecting user data from unauthorized access with two-step verification. Remember to clearly communicate your data security policies to build trust with your users.

Step 7: Test and release

After the development and design phases, it's crucial to thoroughly test the app before releasing it to the public. Testing should include functional testing to ensure all features work as intended, as well as user testing to gather feedback on usability, flow, and overall experience.

Your development team will fix any bugs or issues identified during the testing phase and make necessary improvements based on user feedback. Once the app is stable, secure, and user-friendly, it can be released to the app stores for public use.

Consider a soft launch of an MVP (minimum viable product) to a smaller group of users initially to gather more feedback and ensure that the app is performing well in a real-world setting. Monitor the app's performance and user reviews post-launch, and be prepared to make updates and improvements based on ongoing feedback and evolving user needs.

How Much Does it Cost to Create a Mental Health App?

Creating a mental health app involves various factors that influence its overall cost. Understanding these elements is essential for budgeting and ensuring that your app meets your expectations. The cost can vary significantly, starting at around $30,000 for a basic MVP (Minimum Viable Product). Here's a breakdown of key cost factors:

1. Design Customization Level: The complexity and extent of your app's design play a significant role in determining the cost. A simple design with standard elements may be less expensive, while a highly customized design with unique illustrations and icons can increase costs.

2. Platform Choice: Developing your app for a single platform (either iOS or Android) is usually more cost-effective compared to building for both. However, if you aim for a wider audience, you might consider cross-platform development, which is a cost-effective option for reaching both iOS and Android platforms.

3. Developer's skill level: The experience and expertise of the development team you choose will impact costs. Highly skilled and specialized developers may have higher rates but can often deliver a more polished product. By working with developers from Ukraine, you can reach a good cost-quality ratio. 

4. Features and functionality: The complexity of your app's features, including chatbots, video chat, and reminders, can significantly influence the cost. The more sophisticated the features, the more development time and resources will be required.

5. Integration with third-party services: If your app needs to integrate with external services like secure video chat platforms or payment gateways, this can add to the overall cost.

If you're unsure about the cost or how to optimize your budget for a mental health app, Perpetio offers assistance in cost estimation and project planning. Contact us via form or email [email protected] for a free quote. 

Consider Perpetio Your Trusted Partner

At Perpetio we believe in a holistic approach, focusing not just on coding but on the overall success and impact of your application. Your vision becomes our own, and we work diligently to create a solution that's not just functional but reaches your business goals and aspirations.  

Our approach is flexible as we adapt the project flow and service scope to each client. Let’s work together and bring more positive moods and calmness into the world with a new slick mobile app.

Let’s discuss your project .

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Navigating Business Models for Mental Health Tech

Gabe Strauss

Limbix Blog

Choosing a business model is one of the most important decisions for a mental health startup. After several years of working at early-stage healthcare startups and speaking with colleagues across the industry one thing is clear: mental health business models are complicated. It is critical to choose the right one(s), and many founders, product managers, and business teams wish they knew more about them.

In fact, the importance of business models applies far beyond just mental health tech, and much of what’s described here applies to the broader health tech industry. This article shares what I’ve learned to maximize one’s chances of success.

We’ll cover 5 business models:

Direct-to-consumer

Self-insured employer benefits, fee-for-service, value-based reimbursement, device-like reimbursement.

Most mental health startups target multiple revenue models simultaneously. For example, starting with employer benefits, before adding in fee-for-service and value-based reimbursement, with the ultimate goal of achieving device-like reimbursement. Let’s dive in.

In this model, the mental health startup sells directly to consumers, generally as a monthly subscription fee. Direct-to-consumer (D2C) is often the first business model that mental health startups try because it offers a fast path to revenue and the ability to quickly gain product feedback to iterate. It’s also particularly attractive for those who have come from consumer-tech backgrounds and want to apply their skills to a meaningful problem-space.

There are two categories of mental health products that have worked at scale with a D2C business model: meditation apps and telemental health platforms. Meditation apps such as Calm and Headspace have been very successful using a D2C model. These have largely been successful because they are non-medical . Consumers are willing to pay out of pocket for meditation because they view it as a general wellness and relaxation expense — akin to a massage or a gym membership — rather than a medical product, which they expect insurance to cover.

Several telemental health platforms have also been successful with D2C, namely Talkspace and BetterHelp. These have been successful because people recognize that it is very difficult to find an in-network therapist (i.e. one that their insurance covers), and are therefore open to paying out of pocket for more affordable face-to-face therapy alternatives. Even so, both TalkSpace and BetterHelp are both pursuing B2B revenue through employer benefits to supplement their consumer businesses.

Long-term, many startups run into difficulties with D2C models because consumers generally expect their health care costs to be covered by insurance or their employer. Startups also often find that the economics of D2C marketing is far more expensive than originally anticipated. Many consumers want their healthcare products to be prescribed by their providers and directly integrated into their existing healthcare services, making them resistant to products externally marketed to them. It is largely for these reasons that the majority of mental health companies that start with a D2C business model end up pivoting to some variant of B2B. This trend applies throughout the health-tech industry, with a Rock Health survey showing that 61% of digital health companies that start with a D2C business model ultimately pivot to B2B or B2B2C.

Despite its challenges, D2C can still be a great place to start. It enables early revenue opportunities, and gaining product traction and engagement data can make it easier to transition into B2B opportunities. In mature mental health tech companies, however, D2C generally only comprises a small portion of total revenues.

In this model, mental health startups sell to a self-insured employer that offers the product as a benefit to their employees. Services are generally paid for on a per member per month (PMPM) basis. There are many variations of this, with some models requiring payment regardless of usage, while in other models the company only gets paid for active users in a given month.

Many of today’s high-traction mental health startups obtain a large portion of their revenue through employers. These include Ginger, Big Health, TalkSpace, Livongo, Omada, Lyra Health, and Modern Health, to name just a few. This traction is possible because mental health has arisen as one of the top concerns of employers . Companies are eager to trial new solutions, which is not surprising given the impact of mental health on productivity and retention .

Selling to employers is attractive because it offers a faster sales cycle than selling to health systems and insurance plans, and employers are known to have a greater willingness to try less proven solutions if they can see a positive ROI. This makes it easier to get a mental health product in-market without long, drawn-out pilots and contracting processes (commonly known as death by pilot ).

One hidden difficulty of the employee benefits model is the ‘second sale’. In most cases, a company will only get paid if an employee uses the service. Therefore it is not enough to get the employer to offer the service (the first sale) — a secondary sale is needed to activate each employee and drive usage. This is generally achieved by directly mailing or emailing employees, putting flyers and advertisements in places of employment, or attending employee health and wellness fairs.

Working directly with health systems and payers

This section is divided into fee-for-service, value-based payments, and device-like reimbursement.

Fee for service is the traditional business model in healthcare. In this model, the insurer pays an agreed-upon rate for a service. For example, a payor might agree to pay an in-network therapist a $75 fee for a 50-minute therapy session.

Fee-for-service billing is generally done using a CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code. CPT codes are standardized codes for specific services that are published by the CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services). While the codes themselves are standardized, each insurer contracts individually with a provider to set a rate for each code.

Billing an insurer using a CPT code is particularly suitable for telemental health providers because established CPT codes for telemental health are already accepted by most insurers. Many health systems simply do not have enough clinicians within their network to service demand. They partner with telemental health startups to service this excess demand and pay for the services based on established CPT codes at contracted rates.

To bill using CPT codes, a startup must be a healthcare provider with a national provider identifier number (NPI). Many mental health startups take this approach. For example, Ginger, Ableto, MindStrong, and Omada are all health care providers with NPIs and are therefore able to bill with CPT codes. It is also possible to obtain a new CPT code, a process managed by the AMA . While it is a long pathway, new codes have been created for digital health solutions. For example, CPT codes were created for CDC-recognized digital diabetes prevention programs , a development that contributed to the success of companies such as Omada and Livongo. Future establishment of CPT codes for standalone (non-telehealth) digital mental health treatments would be a major boon for the industry.

Another option is to directly contract with a payor to receive a specific rate for app usage. This often takes the form of a set payment per active member per month or an annual license fee. This structure is suitable for software vendors that are not healthcare providers or who offer a service that is not already covered by an established CPT code. Standalone mental-health platforms such as myStrength (now owned by Livongo) and SilverCloud Health are known to use this model.

Digital formularies are a recent development in the fee-for-service model. CVS launched its digital formulary in June this year — which they call vendor benefits management (VBM) — and Express Scripts quickly followed by launching its digital formulary earlier this month. Both formularies vet digital health offerings based on clinical efficacy, user experience, and cost-effectiveness, and allow payors, such as health systems, commercial insurers, and self-insured employers to opt-in to agreed-upon financial terms. BigHealth, Livongo, SilverCloud Health, and Learn to Live, are among the first digital mental health solutions to be offered through these digital formularies. Expect digital formularies to quickly become a major distribution channel for digital mental health products, similar to how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) are the major channel to market for traditional therapeutics.

The next model for working with health systems and payors is value-based reimbursement. In this model, the mental health startup is paid based on cost savings from reducing overall healthcare utilization. Value-based reimbursement for mental health has become a hot topic because of data showing that mental health conditions, when comorbid with chronic illnesses, lead to large (2–3x) increases in overall healthcare costs .

Although value-based reimbursement seems like an attractive model, it can be difficult to administer because it is hard to directly attribute cost savings to a specific product. To address this, it is common to use proxy metrics like reductions in ER visits or symptoms. This approach is similar to that used by diabetes prevention companies, which get paid based on pounds of weight loss or reductions in A1C, a marker of diabetes severity. Unlike overall healthcare utilization, these metrics are much easier to measure and attribute to the product.

It’s also common to combine value-based payments with fee-for-service payments. For example, a health system might pay for telehealth at a contracted rate based on a CPT code while also providing bonuses for hitting certain quality levels, such as a reduction in ER visits.

The FDA recently began clearing Software as a Medical Device (SaMD). Whereas, previously, the FDA cleared software in physical medical devices (e.g. a smart glucose monitor), SaMDs are standalone software (e.g. an app that operates on a standard smartphone). SaMDs are often referred to as prescription digital therapeutics (PDTs), although there are subtle differences in their definitions. The clearance process is similar to that of traditional medical devices, and generally requires rigorous safety and efficacy data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

FDA clearance enables companies to make medical claims and pursue device-like reimbursement. The goal is to obtain a dedicated CPT or HCPCS code. HCPCS codes are similar to CPT codes but are generally used for medical devices or non-physician services that are not otherwise covered by CPT codes.

A small number of mental health products have received FDA clearance. The most notable of these are RESET and RESET-O by Pear Therapeutics, which are both cleared for the treatment of substance use disorders. However, the path from FDA clearance to reimbursement is still uncharted, and many are looking to Pear to see how it will be achieved. FDA approval does not automatically lead to reimbursement by insurers. The conventional wisdom is that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) make a coverage decision based on clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness, and then commercial insurers follow suit. However, analyses show that CMS and commercial insurers only make the same coverage decisions in about 50% of cases . Many startups were looking to partner with pharmaceutical companies to facilitate SaaMD commercialization. However, a slew of recent partnership terminations between digital health startups and pharma has thrown this model into question.

Most digital health startups pursue FDA clearance to obtain a long-term, defensible competitive advantage, while simultaneously pursuing shorter-term revenue models to reduce company burn. It takes many years and significant funds to obtain FDA approval, and even longer to obtain device-like reimbursement. In the past, some investors were willing to float long prescription digital therapeutic cycles. Some startups achieved valuations in the $100s of millions with zero revenue because of the expectation of swift commercialization post-FDA clearance, similar to pharma. However, the commercialization difficulties of companies such as Pear , and more recently, Proteus Digital Health , have led to a greater emphasis by investors on generating revenue and market traction earlier. Thus, it is more important than ever for digital health startups to capture revenue through alternative business models in order to survive.

Making “Cents” of It All

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing the right business model for mental health startups. From D2C and employer benefits to fee-for-service, value-based care, and prescription digital therapeutics, multiple approaches can work. One thing is clear, however: understanding the pros and cons of each, choosing the right ones, and in the right order, will have an outsized impact on the success of any mental health startup.

Written by Gabe Strauss

Building digital therapeutics for mental health. Sign up for my newsletter @ behavioralhealthpm.substack.com

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Mental Health App Development 2024 | Features, Costs and Monetization

Every year, the demand for mental health applications grows, and it has grown more significantly due to the impacts of Covid-19. More and more people have resolved to use stress relievers and meditation apps to get through their day at home. However, given the delicate nature of the issues that these apps address, creating one is no easy task. In this article, we will share our knowledge and experience gained from creating our previously developed Mental Health App.

If you’re thinking about doing anything like this or a start-up owner who just happens to be interested in Mental Health App Development, keep reading for tips, recommendations, and obstacles.

1. Mental Health App Market Overview

The state of mental health in America in 2023 is pretty concerning. According to Mental Health America :

• 21% of adults are experiencing mental illness – equivalent to 50 million Americans. 
• 55% of adults with a mental illness in the United States require treatment that is currently unmet.
• 16% of youth report suffering from one or more major depressive episodes in the past year, equivalent to 2,7 million people. But 60% of them didn’t receive proper treatment. 
• According to statistics, people suffering from mental health disorders  constituted 20.6%  only among US citizens.
• Depression leads to mental health illnesses in 3,8% of the population , and the figures are about to increase as people’s concern about psychological issues have risen  by over 28%  in Europe and the US.
• Cost is one of the key reasons people couldn’t access mental health services. 

On a global look, the statistics are also raising great attention:

• 322 million people worldwide live with depression ( The Zebra ). 
• Almost 800 million people are suffering from mental health disorders.
• The number of women who experience depression is twice the rate of men.

The pandemic has pushed individuals even more into a mental health crisis. Many people have had to deal with depression, anxiety, stress, or any other mental health problems when they have to stay home for a long period of time without interacting with the outside world.

Also according to an article from PRNewswire The development of mental health apps revenue will grow by 23.7% between 2019 to 2027.

Why Are Mental Health Apps So Popular Today?

Mental health has been at the forefront of the public’s attention in recent years. And the pandemic has only contributed to our already high levels of anxiety. According to Kaiser Family Foundation research, the number of adults in the United States suffering anxiety and/or indicators of depression doubled during the epidemic.

While the importance of mental health is becoming more widely recognized, many people are still hesitant to seek help from a therapist. There are numerous reasons for this:

• People cannot afford long-term treatment.
• Individuals can’t see a therapist regularly due to a lack of time.
• A lack of flexibility and the need to rearrange one’s schedule prevents the person from accommodating sessions.
• Finding a decent therapist is a difficult task.
• Some countries have limited access to therapists.
• Societies still view counseling as something only for “crazy” people and “lost causes.”
• People fear being found out and mocked for having a mental illness.
• An apprehension that a therapist will withhold mental health information.
• Many people feel awkward discussing profoundly intimate problems with a stranger.

Most of the concerns listed above are solved, at least in part, by mobile apps. Mental health applications provide greater flexibility and reduce the need to travel to a therapist’s office. It’s also easier to hide trips to a counselor using an app than hide visits to a counselor. The fact that individuals can have online sessions also makes them feel more relaxed in sharing their information. Not only that, it helps people to access treatment at a more affordable cost. 

All of the above reasons explain why mental health app development is necessary for society. 

2. Types of Mental Health Apps

Mental health is a broad topic, and no software can pretend to cover everything there is to know about it. Any software, whether an app or a website, should not do so – too much information and functionality do any service, be it an app or a website, clumsy and difficult to use.

Instead, it’s more practical for both users and developers to create mental health apps that fall into several categories. Customers benefit from categorization since it allows them to identify suitable solutions more quickly. The following types can be used to categorize mental health apps:

2.1. Mental Disorder Apps

Mental disorder apps are designed specifically for users fighting severe illnesses like depression, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, and schizophrenia. Apps of this kind usually use proven treatment methods, including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), mood monitoring, mindfulness, and cognitive skills training.

Digital psychological help providers have significantly changed the mental health niche, offering alternatives to traditional therapy appointments or clinical treatment. Many patients can now feel free and secure with a 24/7 online doctor on their smartphones. Profound medical monitoring and live person–therapist communication make treatment easy for both parties.

MoodTools ,  MoodKit ,  Talkspace , and Happify  are believed to provide valuable opportunities for dealing with depression. These are excellent examples of mental health app development as they were designed with the help of therapists and coaches.

2.2. Mental Self-Improvement Apps

Self-improvement apps aim to check general psychological health and relieve slight problems like stress, anxiety, negative thinking, frustration, and bad habits. These apps bet on meditation techniques or connect users with psychologists to ensure proper self-care solutions.

a. General Mental Health Apps

General-purpose apps specialize in maintaining users’ self-care via mood control and successfully implementing healthy habits. Mental health app developers may include varied features in their products, such as specified questions, community features, and checklists.

The best examples of creating a mental health app for this purpose are  What’s Up  and  7 Cups of Tea .

For $150 per month, 7 Cups offers customers self-care guides, 24/7 chat with volunteers, and confidential communication with licensed specialists. Simultaneously, the What’s Up app provides a variety of self-care activities to help people cope with stress, anxiety, anger, and other negative emotions.

b. Apps for Addiction Recovery

Fighting bad habits on one’s own can become an unbearable load, so many people need external help to healthier their lives. Apps supporting addiction recovery provide trackers, helpful info, daily reminders, meditations, sharing experiences, and a supportive community. Good mental health apps for addiction recovery include  Twenty-Four Hours a Day ,  Quit That! ,  and Squirrel Recovery .

c. Stress and Anxiety Apps

Stress, frustration, and anxiety stand among the most common problems modern people experience. Thus apps helping to tackle these issues are in high demand. With numerous relaxation techniques and effective motivational plans, services guarantee positive results that make their users feel comfortable again. The best applications to overcome stress are CBT Thought Record Diary ,  Mind Shift ,  Stop, Breathe & Think , and Smiling Mind .

3. How To Develop Mental Health Apps?

We’ve developed a tried-and-true method for creating a mental health mobile app throughout the years. Here are the major steps to take from an idea to a successful launch and specific cautions to be aware of in the healthcare market.

Step 1: Discovery Phase

When developing a mental health app, it’s critical to have a clear vision of the type of app you want to make. You can start by answering the following questions:

• Is mental health the primary issue that the software addresses, or is it a side issue?
• Will your software cater to a specific user group?
• Will your app focus on a specific mental health issue, or will it be a general-purpose software that helps people maintain a healthy mind?
• Will you make a stand-alone app or one that works in conjunction with in-person therapy?
• What kind of app do you have in mind?

Do you want to build a digital library, an assessment app, or an app that actively helps patients with features like meditation, mood tracking, and self-confidence affirmations? Or are you planning to develop a teletherapy app?

• Who is the intended audience for your app?

To find the market fit, you must first understand your target audience. Specific mental health concerns are more prevalent in certain demographics. You can make a mental health app for children, teenagers, the elderly, LGBTQ+ persons, immigrants, and others. You might also choose to target the broader public.

• Is your software a stand-alone application?

Although severe problems necessitate the assistance of a specialist, an app can still be utilized as a supplement. Apps that track medications, moods, and routines might be used between therapy sessions or during breaks. If designed as treatment supplements, these apps can provide therapists with access to a patient’s data (with the patient’s consent).

Step 2. Conduct Competitor & Market Research

Approximately 20,000 mental health apps are available in app stores. Although it is not the most significant section of the mobile app market, the fierce rivalry is. One of the most important steps in developing a mental health app is to examine how others have succeeded and failed.

Of course, studying all 20,000 competitors isn’t essential. It’s always a good idea to look into the most successful applications in your sector, but it’s also good to look into a few apps that failed because they might teach you something.

You can use competitor analysis to identify the best and worst practices in your niche.

Step 3. Create A Detailed Plan

A business plan summarizes the study you did to develop a mental health app. Writing a comprehensive business plan will assist you in visualizing what you want to build and how you want it to function.

As you work on your app, you’ll definitely make adjustments to your business plan, but it’s crucial to have as complete a picture as possible before you begin. This will cut down on trial-and-error errors, speed up time to market, and lessen the cost of developing your mental health app.

Step 4. Find The Right Developers

If you’re building an app from scratch, you’ll need to hire:

• Android and/or iOS developers
• Server-side developer
• UI/UX designer
• Quality assurance specialist
• Project manager

You can find separate freelancers, or you can hire an software outsourcing company for a software app development services . 

However, keep in mind that medical apps are challenging in ways that require more than just technical knowledge. There are legal dangers specific to mobile apps in the IT healthcare solutions sector and recommendations from health experts, and requirements from health authorities. This is why we advocate enlisting the help of experts who have worked on health-related apps before.

Step 5. Build An MVP

Launching a  minimum viable product (MVP) allows you to complete the following objectives:

• Acquire your first users
• Test the application on users who aren’t developers
• Earn early revenue
• Enhance brand recognition before the full launch

Because an MVP is a condensed form of an app, it is less expensive and faster to develop, and launching your app with the promise of expanding and upgrading it can help you make income and establish your brand online. If you have your own practice, this money can develop further, and online recognition can lead to offline clients.

However, the most significant advantage of an MVP is the opportunity to get honest feedback from users who are interested in the app. When developing an app to assist people with mental problems, feedback is even more vital. A disruptive UX or sluggish performance will be even more of an issue for users who come to your app to feel calmer than it would be for the average user in other sorts of apps.

Step 6. Monitor & Analyze Performance

Whether you release an MVP or a full product, the launch is only the beginning of your app’s journey; there’s still much work to be done.

For a mobile app to remain relevant, it must be updated and improved regularly. And, in order to create updates that are beneficial to your audience, you’ll need to understand what keeps users coming back and what drives them away.

You’ll be able to make better decisions about prioritizing features, updates, and sales techniques if you track user engagement numbers.

Step 7. Marketing Campaign

It’s difficult to exaggerate the value of marketing in terms of app performance. To attract users, you’ll need to advertise your mental health app wisely, even if it’s one-of-a-kind — perhaps it takes an original approach or offers a unique combination of features.

There are a number of ways to market your mental health mobile app, but we have narrowed them down the some of the most significant:

• Social media advertising
• App store optimization
• Content marketing on your company’s blog and on third-party platforms
• Press coverage in relevant publications
• Hiring influencers to advertise your app
• Noticeable presence on social media and mental health forums

Your marketing team will assist you in selecting a suitable strategy and marketing channels for optimum exposure based on the behavior and expectations of your target audience.

Step 8. Continue To Update Your App

Any app that does not receive upgrades and updates and those that do not keep up with advances and trends will eventually become obsolete. That’s why it’s critical to keep track of your mental health app’s performance, make data-driven improvements, and roll out updates to keep users engaged after it’s launched.

4. How Do Mental Health Apps Make Money?

Just like any other apps out there, these are the monetization options  you can choose from for a mobile app:

• Subscriptions
• In-app purchases
• Paid downloads

Ads are not suggested for monetization in mental health apps due to the unique nature of the experience and the risk of agitating users.

Users may find in-app purchases irritating if there is a lot of material that must be purchased individually.

If your company is directly involved in providing mental health therapy and you already have a reputation and strategies to obtain app users from your clients, paid downloads are a viable choice.

The following are the two most common monetization options:

• During the trial period of subscription-based apps users often receive access to all content. The trial period for prevalent mental health applications can last up to two weeks.
• The freemium model allows users to access some content for free while paying for access to the full scope of information through a subscription or a one-time purchase.
• Paid downloads provide more money at once but not overtime, whereas subscriptions provide a minor but constant money flow. The optimum monetization model will be determined by your business model.

You can also advertise and sell things through internal links that display similar products such as books, podcasts, or workshops. 

5. Mental Health App Features & Notices

Some of the elements listed below may be more significant than others, depending on the type of mental health app you’re creating.

5.1. Onboarding

It’s critical to take your consumers through the program step by step, describing the features simply but clearly. You might want to explore using animated “assistants” to add some emotion and care, and you can engage a professional to design your instructions in a way that considers your users’ individual needs.

5.2. User profile

Shortcuts to key elements like user data, progress, most-used features, and settings should be kept in a user profile.

5.3. Settings

It’s critical for users of mental health apps to be able to customize their experiences. Users should be able to customize the volume and frequency of notifications, select a theme (if one is available), and so on.

5.4. Notifications

Push notifications can be used to remind users of upcoming tasks or gently entice them to open the app by asking how their day is going.

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5.5. Meditation

Meditation and mindfulness are frequently advised for anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or panic attacks. Audio for guided or unguided meditation can be added to your app’s functionality.

5.6. Mood Tracking

A mood tracker is beneficial for persons who suffer from depression, bipolar disorder, or other mood disorders. Users can gain some control over their conditions and possibly address mood-altering causes by recording their moods.

5.7. Journaling

Journaling is frequently associated with mood tracking, and for some people, it can serve as a substitute for meditation as a relaxing activity.

5.8. Sleep Tracking

Sleep disorders are common in people with a variety of mental health issues. You might include a simple tracker or a more comprehensive one that allows users to note suspected causes of tiredness or insomnia (e.g., medication, agitating activities).

5.9. Medication Reminders

If your app is for mental health conditions that require medicine, adding customizable reminders for users to take their medications will be advantageous.

5.10. Trigger Checkers

Users can cope with their disorders by writing down the triggers that produce anxiety, panic attacks, or depressive episodes.

5.11. In-app Support

Many apps benefit from chatbots that handle issues, but for those who are battling with mental health, genuine and competent human assistance is a superior option because the human mind is too complex for bots to comprehend.

5.12. Community Features

Peer support can be the most valuable resource available to someone experiencing or recovering from an episode. Patients can cope better if they know they’re not alone.

5.13. Gamification

Switching focus away from triggers to an eye-pleasing game can help people relax. We do, however, advise care when it comes to gamification: competitive games or leaderboards might negatively impact users’ spirits.

5.14. Affirmations

Inspiring quotes and affirmative words can lift a person’s spirits and aid in the fight against despair and anxiety.

5.15. Favorites

Allow users to save their favorite features or information for quick access from their profile or home screen, reducing the user journey and improving the user experience.

5.16. Matching Patients & Therapists

For teletherapy apps, you’ll need the ability to connect users with therapists depending on the problem they’re having and the therapists’ qualifications, fees, and schedules.

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5.17. Dashboard For Therapists

A therapist dashboard is required for apps that connect therapists with patients. It will also require its own set of features. It might also be a separate app with a back end that connects to the patient app.

5.18. Sharing

Sharing moods and/or activities on social networks or messengers functions similarly to community features in that it fosters a sense of belonging and encourages individuals who care about the user to offer assistance.

5.19. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

Because it can offer activities and content tailored to users’ habits and tastes, machine learning can make your mental health app more engaging.

5.20. Admin Panel

You’ll need an admin panel to add or update content and monitor activities. The most common format is a simple web page.

6. Factors To Consider For Your Mental Health App Development

Workflow Automation

Mental health apps reduce the workload for care providers thanks to the process’s automation. So ensure your app’s workflow is optimized for the best performance.

Automation can be applied to these parts of the workflow:

• Patient registration
• Appointment booking
• Patient interviews before appointments
• Daily symptom control
• Payment process and confirmation
• Prescription clarification

Security Enhancement

Data security is probably the most important aspect that a mental health app needs to attend.

There are numerous options available to provide high-level security.

• Multi-factor authentication (password, security token, biometric verification like fingerprints, face ID, voice recognition, one-time passcode, phone call verification, personal security questions).
• End-to-end encryption – a type of encryption in which no one can read the messages transferred except the sender and the recipient.
• Fingerprinting. This function is intended to identify a patient’s device (that includes the operating system, screen size, IP address, location, time, language, etc.). A user is notified if certain indications unexpectedly change.
• Real-time fraud notifications. Keep users updated about fraud cases so that they can actively protect their information. 

Regulation Compliance

Know how to design a compliant mental health app if you want to make a successful one. To protect user privacy, different countries have enacted essentially identical standards and regulations.

• USA – Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act or HIPAA
• European Union – General Data Protection Rules or GDPR 
• United Kingdom – Data Protection Act 
• Canada – Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act

They want to make sure that developers are also aware of privacy and data sharing issues while learning how to make a mental health app. Because a medical record or history is personal to a person, it must be protected and safeguarded.

7. How Much Does It Cost To Develop Mental Health App?

In this article, we’ve shown you a variety of mental health-related apps. And it would be a lie to claim that there is a single price that applies to all of them. However, we can provide estimates for development timelines and required specialists, which are the two aspects that have the most impact on costs.

The team you’ll need to develop a mental health app consists of:

• Android developer
• iOS developer
• Backend developer
• 2–3 quality assurance specialists

A mindfulness app with extensive features like monitoring, analysis, audio content, and a bespoke admin panel, in our experience, can take a year to develop and cost anywhere from $80,000 to $150,000 . However, we’re talking about an entire app, not an MVP.

A simplified self-assessment app can be constructed in two to five months (depending on the complexity of the evaluation) and will thus be much less expensive.

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What features should I consider including in a mental health app?

The features you include in your mental health app will depend on its specific focus and target audience. However, some common features to consider are self-assessment tools, mood tracking, goal setting and progress tracking, mindfulness exercises, guided meditation, journaling, educational content, peer support communities, and crisis intervention resources.

How can I ensure that my mental health app is engaging and encourages regular use?

To make your mental health app engaging and encourage regular use, consider incorporating elements such as gamification, rewards or badges for achieving goals, progress visualization, personalized recommendations, push notifications for reminders or encouragement, and interactive features like quizzes, challenges, or habit trackers.

What platforms should I target for my mental health app?

The choice of platforms depends on your target audience and market research. Consider developing your app for both iOS and Android platforms to reach a wider user base. You may also explore web-based versions or compatibility with wearable devices, depending on your app's functionalities.

How can I ensure that my mental health app is effective?

Conducting rigorous research and evaluation is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of your mental health app. Collaborate with mental health professionals to validate the app's content and interventions. Conduct usability testing with potential users to gather feedback and make improvements. Track user outcomes and engage in data analysis to assess the app's impact on mental health indicators.

Are there any ethical considerations in mental health app development?

Yes, there are several ethical considerations in mental health app development. These include obtaining informed consent from users, ensuring confidentiality and privacy of user data, providing accurate and evidence-based information, considering potential biases in algorithms or content recommendations, and being transparent about the app's limitations and potential risks.

How can I market my mental health app effectively?

Marketing your mental health app effectively involves understanding your target audience, identifying their needs and pain points, and positioning your app as a solution. Utilize digital marketing strategies such as social media marketing, content marketing, influencer partnerships, app store optimization, and targeted advertising. Engage mental health professionals and organizations to raise awareness and credibility for your app.

What are some important considerations when developing a mental health app?

Developing a mental health app requires careful attention to several important considerations. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Privacy and Security: Mental health apps often deal with sensitive and personal information. It is crucial to prioritize user privacy and implement robust security measures to protect user data from unauthorized access or breaches.
• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarize yourself with relevant laws and regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) in the United States, if your app handles protected health information. Ensure that your app complies with these regulations to maintain legal and ethical standards.
• User Experience and Design: Design an intuitive and user-friendly interface that enhances user engagement and makes it easy for individuals to navigate the app. Keep in mind that mental health users may be experiencing emotional distress, so create a visually appealing and calming design that promotes a positive experience.
• Evidence-Based Content: Ensure that the mental health app provides accurate and evidence-based information. Collaborate with mental health professionals to develop content that is reliable, trustworthy, and up-to-date.
• Customization and Personalization: Every individual's mental health needs are unique. Consider providing features that allow users to personalize their app experience, such as customizable goals, reminders, or personalized content recommendations.
• Data Analytics: Implement analytics tools to track user behavior, app usage patterns, and outcomes. This data can provide valuable insights for improving the app, identifying user needs, and enhancing mental health interventions.
• Collaboration with Mental Health Professionals: Engage mental health professionals in the development process to ensure the app aligns with established therapeutic approaches. Their expertise can help shape the app's features, interventions, and overall effectiveness.
• Integration with Existing Mental Health Systems: Consider integrating your app with existing mental health systems, such as electronic health records (EHRs) or teletherapy platforms, to facilitate seamless communication and continuity of care.
• Accessibility: Ensure that your app is accessible to a wide range of users, including individuals with disabilities. Follow accessibility guidelines and offer features like text-to-speech, adjustable font sizes, and color contrast options.
• Continuous Improvement and Updates: Mental health app development is an ongoing process. Collect user feedback, monitor performance metrics, and regularly update and improve the app based on user needs, technological advancements, and emerging research.

About Vance Duong

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Top Mental Health App Ideas for Startups

Reasons to build a mental health app

Trending mental health app ideas for startups, how to build a mental health app, real-world examples of top mental health apps, q1. how much does it cost to build a mental health app, q2. how long does it take to build a mental healthcare app.

• Q3. How do you build a mental health app?

How can Appinventiv help in your app development journey?

Over the past few years, mental health has become a topic of serious concern globally. And the pandemic has undoubtedly added to the stress we live under. Though people are now more vocal about mental health, which is a positive thing, the consequences of mental illness are still often underestimated. 

  A report by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America shows that 40 million adults in the US suffer from anxiety disorders. And nearly 75% of people with mental disorders go untreated in developing countries.

All this considered, it’s no surprise that the demand for mental health apps is growing every year. Between 2014 and 2018, the demand for mental health apps in the UK increased 566% . According to a recent study by Acumen Research and Consulting , the global mental health app market is expected to reach $3.7 billion by 2027. 

Mental health apps have become a real lifesaver, both for patients and healthcare professionals. Apps like Calm and Headspace help users to cultivate positive thinking and relax and relieve stress. A few other mental health apps also add the element of gamification to attract users and divert them from self-destructive thoughts. 

As per the latest stats , there are up to 20,000 apps for mental health in the market, and many of the most popular apps have millions of users. Moreover, as per Statista , the leading mental wellness apps were installed 215 thousand times in the United States from November 3 to November 5, 2020.

The stats above prove that the demand for mental health apps is continuously rising because of the exceptional benefits and functionalities they offer. 

In this article, we are listing the different mental health app ideas you can take inspiration from for your startup. 

However, before we get to the interesting app ideas, let’s look into the major reasons for developing a mental health app. 

Mental healthcare apps provide benefits to both patients and healthcare professionals. While patients get timely care even in remote areas, doctors and therapists can reach more patients in less time. Moreover, mobile apps make it easier to obtain data, speed up decision making and allow doctors to reach more patients in less time .  

On that note, we have listed a few benefits of developing a mental health app.

1. Immediate access to mental healthcare: Gone are the days when one had to make physical visits to clinics or offices to meet a therapist or medical counselor. Mental healthcare apps have replaced physical visits with digital visits. Patients can now easily search for therapists and schedule video or audio calls at their convenience. Therapists can also accept or reschedule the appointments as per their schedule.

2. Reduce stress for employees : Mental health apps that target stress, anxiety, or depression are essential for working professionals. As per a report by Lyra Health , one-quarter of employees in the US say their mental health has deteriorated during Covid-19, and 40% are dealing with mental conditions like stress or anxiety. To help reduce stress for employees, many companies are turning to mental health apps and contributing to the overall mental health well-being of their employees.

3. Help in treatment: Mental health apps are useful for data recording and monitoring. Sometimes even doctors and psychotherapists advise the patients to use such applications. Later, the medical personnel can analyze the data and take correct treatment measures.

4. Timely care at even remote locations: By scheduling video calls with a therapist, the majority of people at faraway locations get timely care without having to travel to clinics or hospitals. Moreover, users can get important tips and precautions related to mental health through push notifications.

5. Effective promotional tool: Mental health apps can be used as an effective promotional tool. By integrating the push-notification system, you can inform the patients about their appointments, reports, as well as share special offers, news, and promotions. This way, you can convert a one-time user into a loyal user. 

6. Immediate feedback from users : With the help of a mental health app, a patient can provide feedback digitally according to the rendered service. Once the feedback is received, healthcare providers can get started with what can be done to improve services and create a better user experience.

Types of mental health apps

The mental health app industry is quite diverse. There is a gamut of apps that target different people with various issues and disorders. In this section, we’ll cover the most widespread types of mental health apps. So, let’s begin! 

1. Anxiety, stress, and mood control apps: Anxiety, depression, and mood swings are some of the most common health issues of an individual. A report published by Single Care states 62 percent of people in the US suffer from anxiety. Another report by WHO says approximately 280 million people in the world have depression.

Mental health apps can help patients cope with such mental issues. These types of apps include self-assessment features like questionnaires and journaling. This helps users understand their mental state and take immediate measures. These apps also come with video and audio call features to connect patients and therapists. These apps sometimes also feature emergency lines for consultancy and ambulances.

For instance, Dare is a popular mental health app that helps deal with panic attacks and offers recovery challenges.

2. Mental disorder apps: These types of apps can help people deal with mental disorders like bipolar, OCD, schizophrenia, and others. While a few apps are built on the principle of exchanging messages or calls with doctors, others offer self-guided mood training programs and elements of gamification. These apps generally offer 24*7 specialized support by healthcare professionals, thereby bringing maximum benefit to users. Such apps also provide a platform for people to connect and share feelings with those going through the same experience. 

3. Self-improvement apps: Self-improvement apps are created for users who want to monitor their mood swings, cultivate positive thinking, and break bad habits. Meditation is often the heart of such apps. For example, Calm uses meditation techniques as its core features since many people find them effective for eliminating negative thoughts and reducing stress.

A few apps also offer a list of psychologists and counselors for those who want to take professional help for self-improvement. 

Moving forward, we will see a few trending mental health app ideas for your startup.

Now that we have seen the types of mental health apps, it’s time to take a look at a few trending app ideas addressing mental health issues.

1. App for women’s well-being: If you’re concerned about women’s health and well-being, then this mental health startup idea is just perfect for your startup. You can develop an app to track mood swings and menstrual cycles of women. The app can also provide lists of therapists, doctors, and so on. You can also include text and video chat, where women can get consultations about any mental health issue. You can also offer guided meditation to help them relax and reduce mental stress.

2. Sleep app: These apps are perfect for people who have deep trouble having a good night’s sleep. Sleep apps help ease your stress and anxiety so that you can finally rest and wake up feeling refreshed. Users can select some relaxing music and audio to get a peaceful sleep .

For instance, Headspace offers guided meditation programs to help you drift off into a deep sleep.

3. Virtual therapy app: With the online therapy app, treatment is accessible to everyone. People suffering from anxiety, stress, or other mental health disorders can easily discuss their issues with a therapist from the comfort of their homes. Such business ideas for mental health can also eliminate the patients’ hesitation to talk in person about their health matters. Patients can communicate with health experts using messaging or video call features. With the help of such apps, health professionals can also connect with other health experts and reach more customers. 

For instance, Talk Space is a popular virtual therapy app that connects you to a wide network of mental health professionals. Instead of going to an office and waiting around to be seen, Talk Space allows you to send texts, audio messages, or video calls at your convenience.

4. Emotional wellness apps: These apps can help users weather the ups and downs of feelings and thoughts and stress less. These apps can offer tools to users to manage anxiety and identify triggers so they won’t trip them up in the future . Emotional wellness apps can offer relaxing mindfulness exercises and music to keep users grounded, centered, and in touch with their emotional well-being.

5. Meditation and mindfulness apps: Meditation and mindfulness apps have gained huge popularity , especially after the outbreak of the pandemic. Millions of people had to stay at home and look for new ways to overcome stress and anxiety. During this time, meditation apps turned out to be the perfect solution. These apps help people meditate to reduce stress, get grounded, remove negativity, and understand their feelings better. So, taking into account the current pandemic situation, this is the perfect app idea for mental health tech startups.

6. Self-improvement apps: The self-improvement apps market is really diverse. There are apps for increasing patience, building self-confidence, overcoming fears, relieving mental stress, and more. Such apps can include mental health app features like live coaching sessions with mentors and therapists, pre-recorded courses with step-by-step video guides, and goal settings.

For instance, Happify offers science-based activities, guided meditations, and games that help reduce stress, overcome negative thoughts, and build greater resilience.  

7. Mood and symptoms tracking app: Such types of apps can help track the mood and symptoms of users . You can offer users to take assessment tests on a regular basis to understand their mood and current mental status. You can also includ e features like guided meditation so that users can better understand their initial feeling.

You can also allow people to jot down their thoughts or keep a detailed private journal. They can also log their activities from day to day and then track how these activities affect their mood over time. You can allow people to see their mood swings on a calendar or graph for easy tracking.

[Also Read: The Role of Technology in Mental Health – Trends and Innovations ]

So, these were a few unique mental health startup ideas t hat you can choose for your next project. Now moving forward, let’s jump into how you can build a mental health app.

When planning to create a mental health mobile app , make sure to keep the interface user-friendly and don’t add unnecessary data and functionality. Below are the steps on how to start a mental health business. 

1. Choose the target audience and platform : The first step is to choose your target audience and mental health app platforms . You need to decide whether your app is for children, youth, senior citizens, and so on. Or you can target the general population. This will certainly help to know more about your potential users to design relevant experiences. Once you decide the target audience, choose the platform for your application. You can launch your app on Android , iOS , or even choose a cross-platform option. 

2. Conduct competitor and market research: When creating an app for mental health, it’s vital to study your competitors. Usually, it’s recommended to do in-depth research on the apps that are successful in your niche. However, you must also check out apps that failed, as they might offer valuable lessons. Competitor analysis will help define best and worst practices in your niche.

3. Hire a reliable app development company : Hire a reliable app development company with expertise in multiple domains. Choosing an app development company will ensure that the quality of service is not compromised.

A mobile app development company has a team of UI/UX designers , expert mental health app developers , and market specialists who offer competent suggestions and always take your vision into account. The company also provides access to the newest technologies and offers the latest industry expertise.

4. Build an MVP:   Minimum Viable Product or MVP is the first version of a product with minimal features. It helps determine whether the product has the potential to succeed. Moreover, MVP software development allows users to share their experience with your app, telling what functionality they would like you to add to your product. For a successful MVP development, hire a product development agency that can help bring your product to life.

5. Testing: Testing can’t be overlooked, especially when we are talking about apps for issues as sensitive as mental health. Test everything from user experience, user interface, to content. Proper testing will help identify bugs, shorten the development time and cost, and greatly improve your reputation as a service provider.

6. Release and keep updating: Once your application has been thoroughly tested, it’s ready to welcome users. Now it’s time to track its performance with the in-app analytics tools you implemented during development, address user concerns and requests, and introduce updates to keep users engaged.

Let’s take a look at a few mental health apps that have impressed users with their innovative features and functionalities.

1. Calm: The app aims to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and promote mindfulness. Calm provides meditation that focuses on relaxation and sleep. The app can be used by both beginners and those who already use meditation. The meditation sessions range from 3 minutes to over an hour.

2. Headspace: Headspace uses mindfulness and meditation to help people build relationships, reduce stress, and promote restful sleep. Headspace offers meditation for creativity, workplace, body positivity, and focus, among others.

3. MindDoc: MindDoc is a mood journal that asks users questions three times per day to track their emotional health. The app provides in-depth statistics on mood and symptom changes over time. MindDoc also offers meditation sessions, courses, and other resources that aim to improve a person’s emotional health.

4. Anxiety Relief Hypnosis: Anxiety Relief Hypnosis is an app that may help improve relaxation and reduce anxiety. The app allows people to loop relaxing background noises and sessions while they are sleeping.

5. Mindshift CBT: The MindShift CBT app was created to provide anxiety relief using CBT tools to adjust thinking and behaviors. The app claims to help tackle worry, panic, perfectionism, social anxiety, and phobias.

Ans. The cost of building a mental health app depends on several factors such as choice of mental health platforms, location of app developers, mental health app features , etc. However, the average cost can be somewhere between $40,000 to $80,000. 

Ans. On average, the development of mental health apps can take anywhere between three months to one year, depending on the structure of your project and the complexity of the app.

Q3. How do you build a mental health app ?

For starting a mental health business, you need to hire an experienced mobile app development company. Share your mental health business ideas with them. They can provide you with the right consultation in terms of the required technologies, features, and functionality for your app.

As a reliable healthcare application development company , we have developed many apps for our users. We have a highly skilled team of mental health app developers who have mastered the technologies needed to develop innovative mental healthcare apps. 

So, in case you are starting a mental health business and have an amazing app idea in your mind, feel free to contact us . Our experts will offer the best healthcare mobile app development services and bring your idea to life. 

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Mental Health Private Practice Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Mental Health Private Practice Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their mental health private practice companies. 

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a mental health private practice business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Mental Health Private Practice Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your mental health private practice business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Mental Health Private Practice

If you’re looking to start a mental health private practice business or grow your existing mental health private practice company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your mental health private practice business to improve your chances of success. Your mental health private practice business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Mental Health Private Practice Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a mental health private practice business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan (hand it to them in person or email to them as a PDF file) and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for mental health private practice companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a mental health private practice business.

If you want to start a mental health private practice business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide and sample below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your mental health private practice business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of mental health private practice business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a mental health private practice business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of mental health private practice businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. 

• Give a brief overv iew of the mental health private practice industry. 
• Discuss the type of mental health private practice business you are operating. 
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. 
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team. 
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of mental health private practice business you are operating.

For example, you m ight specialize in one of the following types of mental health private practice businesses:

• Cognitive Therapy : Focusing on psychotherapy that challenges negative patterns of thought about oneself and the world, cognitive therapy brings the patient to a better understanding of personal value in the world. 
• Behavioral Therapy: This therapy is one that focuses on retraining one’s reactions to stimuli, thus removing neurotic symptoms.   
• Holistic Therapy: A mental health private practice that centers therapy on a holistic platform is one that treats each individual as a multi-faceted being with all needs seen as equally important and in need of therapeutic healing. 
• Interpersonal Therapy: Treatment of mood disorders and difficult inter-relational issues is the main focus of interpersonal therapy.

In addition to explaining the type of mental health private practice business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of patients served, the number of cases with positive outcomes, reaching X number of clients served, etc.
• What is your legal business structure? Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the mental health private practice industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the mental health private practice industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your mental health private practice business plan:

• How big is the mental health private practice industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your mental health private practice business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your mental health private practice business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, couples or families.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of mental health private practice business you operate. Individuals would respond to different marketing promotions versus families, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers. Ideally you can speak with a sample of your target customers before writing your plan to better understand their needs.

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With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are othe r mental health private practice businesses. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes psychiatrists, other healthcare providers, or members of the clergy. You need to mention direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of mental health private practice business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide options for the uninsured?
• Will you offer services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a mental health private practice business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type o f mental health private practice company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide on-call emergency therapy sessions, client referral incentives, or group behavioral therapy retreats?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of yo ur plan, yo u are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your mental health private practice company. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your mental health private practice business located in a quiet neighborhood office, a business district, or a standalone office? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your mental health private practice marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites 
• Speak in community forums or blog as an expert
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your mental health private practice business, including answering calls, planning and providing therapy sessions, billing insurance and/or patients, etc. 

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth session, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your mental health private practice business to a new city.

Management Team

To demonstrate your mental health private practice business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing mental health private practice businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a mental health private practice business or successfully running a small therapy clinic.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance s heet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 patients per day, and/or offer group therapy sessions ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your mental health private practice business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. 

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a mental health private practice business:

• Cost of equipment and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your 5-year office location lease or a list of insurance plans you accept.

Writing a business plan for your mental health private practice business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the mental health private practice industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful mental health private practice business.

Mental Health Private Practice Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my mental health private practice business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your mental health private practice business plan.

How Do You Start a Mental Health Private Practice Business?

Starting a mental health private practice business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Mental Health Private Practice Business
• Create Your Mental Health Private Practice Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Mental Health Private Practice Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Mental Health Private Practice Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Mental Health Private Practice Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Mental Health Private Practice Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Mobile Mechanic Business Equipment
• Develop Your Mental Health Private Practice Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Mental Health Private Practice Business
• Open for Business

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Mental Health Private Practice business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.  

Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan writers can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

20 Growing Mental Health Companies & Startups In 2024

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Thanks largely to the global pandemic, 1 in 5 US adults state they experience mental illness. And more than 12M have struggled with serious thoughts of suicide.

What’s more, many struggle to receive the necessary mental health care that they desperately need. To meet this growing demand for mental health services, startups have been crafting creative ways to bridge this gap, including more reliance on telehealth.

This explains the rapid growth in mental health funding, which saw a 139% increase YoY from 2020 to 2021, reaching a record $5.5B .

Most of this growth was spurred by US mental health companies, scoring $4.5B in funding in 2021. European counterparts raised $651M and Asian companies raised $289M.

The mental health market did see a drop as total funding was down to $2.6B in 2022, however, it is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% through 2029, which will likely result in greater funding.

Although the market has taken a steep dive recently, it’s very likely that the mental health startup space will continue to grow overall. Let’s take a look at some players that could make an impact in this critical space.

1. Modern Health

5-year search growth : 108%

Search growth status : Exploding

Year founded : 2017

Location : San Francisco, CA

Funding : $167.4M (Series D)

What they do : Modern Health is a B2B app for employers that want to offer their employees therapy, coaching and educational content. Coaches and therapists are available in over 50 languages and use evidence-based techniques with members. 75% of engaged app users have reported that the program helps them maintain and improve their well-being.

2. Lyra Health

5-year search growth : 525%

Year founded : 2015

Location : Burlingame, CA

Funding : $910.1M (Series F)

What they do : Lyra Health is a B2B company that provides mental healthcare services to employees. Offering a curated network of therapists and coaches, the startup reports a 10x utilization over traditional Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), as well as over a $2K per member annual reduction in healthcare claims costs.

3. Kintsugi

5-year search growth : 152%

Year founded : 2019

Location : Berkeley, CA

Funding : $30.9M (Series A)

What they do : Kintsugi is a platform for health systems, payors and providers that screens speech clips for depression and anxiety. Currently available in 250+ cities around the world, the startup offers a talk therapy app that utilizes its proprietary KiVA (Kintsugi Voice Biomarker API) technology to detect mental health conditions as well as other health markers, such as sleep quality, nutrition and emotional triggers.

4. Spring Health

5-year search growth : 43%

Year founded : 2016

Location : New York, NY

Funding : $366.5M (Series Unknown)

What they do : Spring Health is a B2B mental health startup specifically focused on employee wellbeing. Using machine learning, the company is able to match employees with a care plan that meets their needs. In addition to a care plan, employees have access to a Care Navigator who can offer support through difficult times. Based on Spring Health’s existing clients including Equinox, Instacart and more, 30% of all employees sign up for the program and can recover half a day of productivity each week.

5. Meru Health

5-year search growth : 115%

Location : San Mateo, CA

Funding : $53.3M (Grant)

What they do : Meru Health is a digital mental health platform that treats people with depression. The startup offers two programs: a 12-week treatment program consisting of therapist and psychiatrist support, a peer support group, meditation practices and a biofeedback device, and a health coaching program consisting of on-demand coach chatting, educational content to reduce stress. Based on one study, 75% of program participants saw a reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms after completing the program.

6. NUE Life Health

5-year search growth : 20%

Search growth status : Peaked

Year founded : 2020

Location : Mami, FL

Funding : $28.2M (Series Unknown)

What they do : NUE Life Health is a mental wellness company that offers ketamine therapy to treat mental health disorders including depression, anxiety and PTSD. According to the homepage, the startup has helped deliver over 22.5K treatments to date. Pricing ranges from $1,250 for a 1-month subscription to $2,750 for a 4-month subscription.

7. Iris Telehealth

5-year search growth : -100%

Year founded : 2013

Location : Austin, TX

Funding : $40M (Series B)

What they do : Iris Telehealth is a telepsychiatry platform that provides services to mental health centers and hospitals. Psychiatrists or Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners employed by Iris conduct telemedicine visits or in-person care as needed. The startup has had over 1.5M patient encounters, with a 97% average patient satisfaction rating.

5-year search growth : 307%

Search growth status : Regular

Location : London, England

Funding : $63.1M (Series B)

What they do : Maintaining mental health in the workplace is often overlooked, but Unmind is one platform that is doing something about it. This startup offers employers mental health and well-being tools, training, and scientifically backed assessments to teach employees about various mental health topics through audio, video, and interactive content. Unmind has more than  2.5 million users in 110 countries. 

9. Eleanor Health

5-year search growth : 273%

Location : Waltham, MA

Funding : $82M (Series C)

What they do : Eleanor Health is a comprehensive, in-person, and digital mental health provider for mental health and addiction recovery. Currently available in 6 states, the company offers a variety of programs, including medication-assisted treatment, therapy, psychiatry, addiction recovery coaching, telehealth visits, and supporting a loved one with an addiction.

10. BetterHelp

5-year search growth : 540%

Location : San Francisco, California 

Funding : $4.5M (Acquired)

What they do : BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that connects patients with professional psychologists, social workers, therapists, and counselors. New BetterHelp users select their type of therapy and fill out a questionnaire to get matched with a therapist within 24 hours. In 2022, BetterHelp generated over  $1 billion in revenue from 1 million users . 

11. Alto Neuroscience

5-year search growth : 1,500%

Location : Los Altos, CA

Funding : $284.3M (Series Unknown)

What they do : Alto Neuroscience develops psychiatric drugs used to treat mental health conditions. The startup aims to change the current drug development model, which does not consider that different people respond to the same drug differently. Thus, the team uses 10 years of data to match each Alto medicine with each patient, creating a better fit. Currently, the studies are focused on depression and PTSD, but will soon expand to other conditions.

12. Mantra Health

5-year search growth : 49%

Year founded : 2018

Funding : $34.2M (Series A)

What they do : Mantra Health offers digital mental health services for university students. By partnering with each college’s campus counseling centers, students can access therapy, and resources to help foster positive lifestyle changes and medication. Patient outcomes have shown clinical improvement exceeding industry standards within 4 weeks of treatment, and even more pronounced improvement after 12 weeks of treatment.

13. Concert Health

5-year search growth : 88%

Location : San Diego, CA

Funding : $56.5M (Series B)

What they do : Concert Health is a behavioral health medical group that helps providers and health plans integrate behavioral health into their services. Patients meet with a Behavioral Care Manager (BCM) to set goals, receive counseling and monitor their treatment plan. Available in 12 states, the startup has helped over 24K patients get care.

14. Brightline

5-year search growth : 232%

Location : Palo Alto, CA

Funding : $212M (Series C)

What they do : Brightline is a virtual care platform that serves children, teens, and their families. Using the Connect app, families can find resources to support their kids, as well as on-demand messaging with coaches. Kids can also sign up for one-on-one coaching sessions to help them through stress, breakups, school, and more.

5-year search growth : 154%

Location : Washington, DC

Funding : $5M (Seed)

What they do : Hurdle is a B2B startup that has developed an app to help employers find ways to manage stress. Employers complete a short form to register for therapy and can join sessions from their mobile device or computer. Hurdle emphasizes the importance of recognizing cultural differences and provides Culturally Intentional Therapy to meet the needs of people of color and minority groups.

16. Charlie Health

5-year search growth : 254%

Search growth status : Exploding 

Location : Bozeman, Montana

Funding : $850K (Seed Round)

What they do : In the US, 72% of the population lives in a mental healthcare provider shortage area. Charlie Health is tackling this problem by providing virtual intensive outpatient programs (IOP) to individuals struggling with mental health disorders like anxiety and depression.

Of the 20,000 clients that have used Charlie Health, 90% report improvements in their mental health symptoms.

17. Parsley Health

5-year search growth : -15%

Funding : $36M (Series B)

What they do : Parsley Health is a primary care platform that offers treatment for a wide range of conditions and stages of life, ranging from mental health to digestion to pregnancy. A 12-month membership includes 5 visits with a clinician and 5 visits with a health coach, as well as other perks. 80% of members report feeling better within the first year, and 77% reduce their number of prescriptions.

5-year search growth : 73%

Funding $323M (Series B)

What they do : Elemy is a platform that offers physician care to children who have behavioral challenges, including autism, ADHD, PTSD and more. Currently available in 13 states and 57 cities, the startup has reported that children who receive autism care for 6 months see an 80% improvement in behavior.

19. Meditopia

Location : Berlin, Germany

Funding : $18.3M (Series A)

What they do : Meditopia is a mental health platform focused on coaching and meditation. The app plays a large role in the user’s experience; today there are over 30M+ users in over 120 countries. After completing a mental health assessment, users are provided a personalized program accessible on the app, and can also choose to meet with a mental health coach.

20. Talkiatry

5-year search growth : 8,600%

Location : New York, New York

Funding : $112M (Series B)

What they do : Talkiatry connects adults and adolescents with mental health professionals and licensed psychiatrists for virtual therapy sessions. Currently, the platform only accepts patients with in-network insurance plans to treat mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and ADHD. In March 2024, the company reached 1 million patient visits since launching. 

That wraps up our list of mental health startups that are showing great potential for continued growth in 2024.

One thing is clear: these companies are aiming to build better experiences for their patients. Through personalization and one-on-one connection with a therapist or coach, patients are more likely to feel more supported as they navigate the confusing waters that are mental health.

These startups are also leveraging more technology and AI to deliver more accurate diagnoses and longer-lasting clinical outcomes. From natural language processing to machine learning algorithms, the more data that startups collect, the more accurate their results will become.

Mental health has a huge ripple effect. To name just two effects: those with serious mental conditions are twice as likely to develop cardiometabolic diseases and depression and anxiety disorders result in $1T lost productivity every year worldwide.

With mental health having such a huge impact on healthcare costs, economic productivity and quality of life, it’s likely that more mental health startups will continue to spring up in 2024.

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Mental Health Business Plan

Recently, the important role of mental health has been widely acknowledged by many countries and communities around the world. Despite the progress, people with mental health conditions remain victims of human rights violations, discrimination, and stigma. With extremely low treatment coverage, the gap between people needing care and those with access to care remains substantial. This is why mental health businesses, in the form of mental health hospitals and counseling centers, among others, are booming to allow more and more individuals to get access to the care they need. Likewise, your goal in setting up a mental health business is to significantly increase the number of people with psychological conditions gaining access to the support they need in managing mental health issues. However, like many other businesses , you need a roadmap to better guide you in structuring, running, and growing your mental health business.

Generally, creating a business plan takes a complicated process. There are a lot of aspects you need to look into in order to make your business a success. This is why it’s quite hard to choose where to start in creating your business plan. But fret not because we give you more than three business plan ideas through our examples and templates below.

3+ Mental Health Business Plan Examples

1. mental health business plan template.

Size: 593 KB

2. Business Plan for Mental Health

Size: 90 KB

3. Mental Health Small Business Plan

4. Standard Mental Health Business Plan

What Is a Mental Health Business Plan

So your vision is to help people with mental health conditions get access to the services they need at an extensive rate. Now to make your vision possible, your first mission is to create a business plan. A business plan will guide you through each stage of your mental health business; from starting to managing. Through this, you can think through the key elements of your business — funding agreement , budget , investors, and more.

How to Write a Mental Health Business Plan

You need to have a written business plan for your behavioral health practice. With it, the likelihood of achieving a successful mental health business becomes relatively higher. But, how do you write it? Before we get started with the process, please remember that a business plan should include the executive summary, company description, market analysis, organization and management chart, marketing and sales, funding request, and financial projections. Also, don’t forget to include services and/or products. You might want to consider providing learning resources that can help patients diagnosed with mental health problems themselves or the people who want to help them.

Without further ado, let’s get started!

Tip 1: Conduct Thorough Research

Know more about the different aspects of mental health and be sure it lines up with your goals and objects. Research and analyze the services or products that you plan to provide — understand how they can help people who are suffering from mental health issues.

A little suggestion, try to research the various interventions made by other mental health providers; analyze their effectiveness and which areas do they fail. This will help you make innovative psychotherapeutic interventions that can potentially address treatment gaps in the past. In other words, know your company, what you provide, your competition, and the market intimately.

Tip 2: Determine Your Purpose

A business plan is a written document describing the nature of your business, the sales and marketing strategy, financial background, and the profit and loss statement . As such, you should have a clear purpose as to why you are establishing a mental health business. This is why research is imperative in your business plan.

Serving as a roadmap that provides direction for your business, it’s important to keep in mind if you’re self-funding or building your company from nothing else but personal savings or cash from the first profit — in your case, you may have a long way to go. So, determine if you’re planning to attract investors or not. If you do, write your plan in a way that targets them.

Tip 3: Have Your Strategic Marketing Plan Ironed Out

Map your marketing strategy  to give you a clear guide in effectively reaching your target market. Be creative in thinking about how you introduce your services. For this, your marketing strategy might include venturing into digital marketing. There is a number of mental health providers who were able to expand their reach with the help of a digital marketing agency.

But, of course, be sure to personalize your business plan. This will aid you in creating a concrete marketing strategy.

Tip 4: Include the Clinical Aspect of Your Business

Make your business plan tailored to your behavioral health practice. For this, think about the clinical aspect of your business. Take the following into consideration: – The clients’ demographics, age group, and conditions – Clinic location (rent or buy a space or at home) – The therapeutic approaches you will take – Prospective behavioral healthcare provider partners – Telehealth – Counseling Treatment Plan

These are just a few of the considerations you need to look into with the overall operation. If you have anything else in mind, include them in your business plan. It might help.

What Are the Main Purposes of a Business Plan?

There are three main purposes of a business plan, which include (1) creating an effective business growth strategy, (2) determining the company’s future financial needs, and (3) attracting investors.

Is a Business Plan the Same as Marketing Plan?

No. A business plan covers the business as a whole, including the overall strategy, financial plans, target markets, sales, services and/or products, operations, and their relation to each other. On the other hand, a marketing plan focuses on the marketing strategy (target market, messaging, platform, etc.).

How Does a Business Plan and Marketing Plan Relate with Each Other?

Your marketing plan provides how your company will achieve or exceed its purpose and mission. The purpose and mission should be identified in the business plan.

You can neither go right nor wrong in writing a business plan. What matters is that your plan is able to achieve, if not exceed, your needs and expectations. If you’re puzzled about how to begin with your business plan, feel free to browse for more of our business plan examples and templates, such as: – Daycare Business Plan – New Business Plan – Small Business Plan – Cafe Business Plan – Bakery Business Plan

Text prompt

• Instructive
• Professional

Create a study plan for final exams in high school

Develop a project timeline for a middle school science fair.

What Part B covers

If you're in a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare plan, your plan may have different rules. But, your plan must give you at least the same coverage as Original Medicare. Some services may only be covered in certain facilities or for patients with certain conditions.

What's covered?

NEW INSULIN BENEFIT!  If you use an insulin pump that's covered under Part B's durable medical equipment benefit, or you get your covered insulin through a Medicare Advantage Plan, your cost for a month's supply of Part B-covered insulin for your pump can't be more than $35. The Part B deductible won't apply. If you get a 3-month supply of Part B-covered insulin, your costs can't be more than $35 for each month's supply. This means you'll generally pay no more than $105 for a 3-month supply of covered insulin. If you have Part B and Medicare Supplement Insurance ( Medigap ) that pays your Part B coinsurance, you plan should cover the $35 (or less) cost for insulin.

Part B covers 2 types of services

• Medically necessary services: Services or supplies that are needed to diagnose or treat your medical condition and that meet accepted standards of medical practice.
• Preventive services :  Health care to prevent illness (like the flu) or detect it at an early stage, when treatment is most likely to work best.

You pay nothing for most preventive services if you get the services from a health care provider who accepts assignment .

Part B covers things like:

• Clinical research  
• Ambulance services
• Durable medical equipment (DME)
• Partial hospitalization
• Intensive outpatient program services (starting January 1, 2024)
• Limited outpatient prescription drugs

2 ways to find out if Medicare covers what you need

• Talk to your doctor or other health care provider about why you need certain services or supplies. Ask if Medicare will cover them. You may need something that's usually covered but your provider thinks that Medicare won't cover it in your situation. If so, you'll have to  read and sign a notice . The notice says that you may have to pay for the item, service, or supply.
• Find out if Medicare covers your item, service, or supply .

Medicare coverage is based on 3 main factors 

• Federal and state laws.
• National coverage decisions made by Medicare about whether something is covered.
• Local coverage decisions made by companies in each state that process claims for Medicare. These companies decide whether something is medically necessary and should be covered in their area.

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What is depression?

Everyone feels sad or low sometimes, but these feelings usually pass. Depression (also called major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression) is different. It can cause severe symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.

Depression can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, income, culture, or education. Research suggests that genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors play a role in the disorder.

Women are diagnosed with depression more often than men, but men can also be depressed. Because men may be less likely to recognize, talk about, and seek help for their negative feelings, they are at greater risk of their depression symptoms being undiagnosed and undertreated. Studies also show higher rates of depression and an increased risk for the disorder among members of the LGBTQI+ community.

In addition, depression can co-occur with other mental disorders or chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and chronic pain. Depression can make these conditions worse and vice versa. Sometimes, medications taken for an illness cause side effects that contribute to depression symptoms as well.

What are the different types of depression?

There are two common types of depression.

• Major depression includes symptoms of depressed mood or loss of interest, most of the time for at least 2 weeks, that interfere with daily activities.
• Persistent depressive disorder (also called dysthymia or dysthymic disorder) consists of less severe depression symptoms that last much longer, usually for at least 2 years.

Other types of depression include the following.

• Seasonal affective disorder comes and goes with the seasons, with symptoms typically starting in the late fall and early winter and going away during the spring and summer.
• Depression with symptoms of psychosis is a severe form of depression in which a person experiences psychosis symptoms, such as delusions or hallucinations.
• Bipolar disorder involves depressive episodes, as well as manic episodes (or less severe hypomanic episodes) with unusually elevated mood, greater irritability, or increased activity level.

Additional types of depression can occur at specific points in a woman’s life. Pregnancy, the postpartum period, the menstrual cycle, and menopause are associated with physical and hormonal changes that can bring on a depressive episode in some people.

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a more severe form of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, that occurs in the weeks before menstruation.
• Perinatal depression occurs during pregnancy or after childbirth. It is more than the “baby blues” many new moms experience after giving birth.
• Perimenopausal depression affects some women during the transition to menopause. Women may experience feelings of intense irritability, anxiety, sadness, or loss of enjoyment.

What are the signs and symptoms of depression?

Common signs and symptoms of depression include:

• Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of irritability, frustration‚ or restlessness
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Fatigue, lack of energy, or feeling slowed down
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, waking too early in the morning, or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
• Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems without a clear physical cause that do not go away with treatment
• Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts

Depression can also involve other changes in mood or behavior that include:

• Increased anger or irritability
• Feeling restless or on edge
• Becoming withdrawn, negative, or detached
• Increased engagement in high-risk activities
• Greater impulsivity
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Isolating from family and friends
• Inability to meet responsibilities or ignoring other important roles
• Problems with sexual desire and performance

Not everyone who is depressed shows all these symptoms. Some people experience only a few symptoms, while others experience many. Depression symptoms interfere with day-to-day functioning and cause significant distress for the person experiencing them.

If you show signs or symptoms of depression and they persist or do not go away, talk to a health care provider. If you see signs of depression in someone you know, encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional.

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline   at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org   . In life-threatening situations, call 911 .

How is depression diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with depression, a person must have symptoms most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks. One of the symptoms must be a depressed mood or a loss of interest or pleasure in most activities. Children and adolescents may be irritable rather than sad.

Although several persistent symptoms, in addition to low mood, are required for a depression diagnosis, people with only a few symptoms may benefit from treatment. The severity and frequency of symptoms and how long they last vary depending on the person.

If you think you may have depression, talk to a health care provider, such as a primary care doctor, psychologist, or psychiatrist. During the visit, the provider may ask when your symptoms began, how long they have lasted, how often they occur, and if they keep you from going out or doing your usual activities. It may help to take some notes about your symptoms before the visit.

Certain medications and medical conditions, such as viruses or thyroid disorders, can cause the same symptoms as depression. A provider can rule out these possibilities by doing a physical exam, interview, and lab tests.

Does depression look the same in everyone?

Depression can affect people differently depending on their age.

• Children may be anxious or cranky, pretend to be sick, refuse to go to school, cling to a parent, or worry that a parent may die.
• Older children and teens may get into trouble at school, sulk, be easily frustrated‚ feel restless, or have low self-esteem. They may have other disorders, such as anxiety, an eating disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or substance use disorder. Older children and teens are also more likely to experience excessive sleepiness (called hypersomnia) and increased appetite (called hyperphagia).
• Young adults are more likely to be irritable, complain of weight gain and hypersomnia, and have a negative view of life and the future. They often have other disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, panic disorder, or substance use disorder.
• Middle-aged adults may have more depressive episodes, decreased libido, middle-of-the-night insomnia, or early morning waking. They often report stomach problems, such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Older adults often feel sadness, grief, or other less obvious symptoms. They may report a lack of emotions rather than a depressed mood. Older adults are also more likely to have other medical conditions or pain that can cause or contribute to depression. Memory and thinking problems (called pseudodementia) may be prominent in severe cases.

Depression can also look different in men versus women, such as the symptoms they show and the behaviors they use to cope with them. For instance, men (as well as women) may show symptoms other than sadness, instead seeming angry or irritable.

For some people, symptoms manifest as physical problems (for example, a racing heart, tightened chest, chronic headaches, or digestive issues). Many men are more likely to see a health care provider about these physical symptoms than their emotional ones. While increased use of alcohol or drugs can be a sign of depression in any person, men are also more likely to use these substances as a coping strategy.

How is depression treated?

Depression treatment typically involves psychotherapy (in person or virtual), medication, or both. If these treatments do not reduce symptoms sufficiently, brain stimulation therapy may be another option.

Choosing the right treatment plan is based on a person’s needs, preferences, and medical situation and in consultation with a mental health professional or a health care provider. Finding the best treatment may take trial and error.

For milder forms of depression, psychotherapy is often tried first, with medication added later if the therapy alone does not produce a good response. People with moderate or severe depression usually are prescribed medication as part of the initial treatment plan.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy (also called talk therapy or counseling) can help people with depression by teaching them new ways of thinking and behaving and helping them change habits that contribute to depression. Psychotherapy occurs under the care of a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with others in a group setting.

Psychotherapy can be effective when delivered in person or virtually via telehealth. A provider may support or supplement therapy using digital or mobile technology, like apps or other tools.

Evidence-based therapies to treat depression include cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. Using other forms of psychotherapy, such as psychodynamic therapy, for a limited time also may help some people with depression.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) : With CBT, people learn to challenge and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors to improve their depressive and anxious feelings. Recent advances in CBT include adding mindfulness principles and specializing the therapy to target specific symptoms like insomnia.
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT) : IPT focuses on interpersonal and life events that impact mood and vice versa. IPT aims to help people improve their communication skills within relationships, form social support networks, and develop realistic expectations to better deal with crises or other issues that may be contributing to or worsening their depression.

Learn more about psychotherapy .

Antidepressants are medications commonly used to treat depression. They work by changing how the brain produces or uses certain chemicals involved in mood or stress.

Antidepressants take time—usually 4−8 weeks—to work, and problems with sleep, appetite, and concentration often improve before mood lifts. Giving a medication a chance to work is important before deciding whether it is right for you.

Treatment-resistant depression occurs when a person doesn’t get better after trying at least two antidepressants. Esketamine is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment-resistant depression. Delivered as a nasal spray in a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital, the medication acts rapidly, typically within a couple of hours, to relieve depression symptoms. People will usually continue to take an antidepressant pill to maintain the improvement in their symptoms.

Another option for treatment-resistant depression is to combine an antidepressant with a different type of medication that may make it more effective, such as an antipsychotic or anticonvulsant medication.

All medications can have side effects. Talk to a health care provider before starting or stopping any medication. Learn more about antidepressants .

Note : In some cases, children, teenagers, and young adults under 25 years may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking antidepressants, especially in the first few weeks after starting or when the dose is changed. The FDA advises that patients of all ages taking antidepressants be watched closely, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

Information about medication changes frequently. Learn more about specific medications like esketamine, including the latest approvals, side effects, warnings, and patient information, on the FDA website  .

Brain stimulation therapy

Brain stimulation therapy is an option when other depression treatments have not worked. The therapy involves activating or inhibiting the brain with electricity or magnetic waves.

Although brain stimulation therapy is less frequently used than psychotherapy and medication, it can play an important role in treating depression in people who have not responded to other treatments. The therapy generally is used only after a person has tried psychotherapy and medication, and those treatments usually continue. Brain stimulation therapy is sometimes used as an earlier treatment option when severe depression has become life-threatening, such as when a person has stopped eating or drinking or is at a high risk of suicide.

The FDA has approved several types of brain stimulation therapy. The most used are electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Other brain stimulation therapies are newer and, in some cases, still considered experimental. Learn more about brain stimulation therapies .

Natural products

The FDA has not approved any natural products for treating depression. Although research is ongoing and findings are inconsistent, some people report that natural products, including vitamin D and the herbal dietary supplement St. John’s wort, helped their depression symptoms. However, these products can come with risks, including, in some cases, interactions with prescription medications.

Do not use vitamin D, St. John’s wort, or other dietary supplements or natural products without first talking to a health care provider. Rigorous studies must test whether these and other natural products are safe and effective.

How can I take care of myself?

Most people with depression benefit from mental health treatment. Once you begin treatment, you should gradually start to feel better. Go easy on yourself during this time. Try to do things you used to enjoy. Even if you don’t feel like doing them, they can improve your mood.

Other things that may help:

• Try to get physical activity. Just 30 minutes a day of walking can boost your mood.
• Try to maintain a regular bedtime and wake-up time.
• Eat regular, healthy meals.
• Do what you can as you can. Decide what must get done and what can wait.
• Connect with people. Talk to people you trust about how you are feeling.
• Delay making important life decisions until you feel better. Discuss decisions with people who know you well.
• Avoid using alcohol, nicotine, or drugs, including medications not prescribed for you.

How can I find help for depression?

You can learn about ways to get help and find tips for talking with a health care provider on the NIMH website.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) also has an online tool to help you find mental health services  in your area.

How can I help a loved one who is depressed?

If someone you know is depressed, help them see a health care provider or mental health professional. You also can:

• Offer support, understanding, patience, and encouragement.
• Invite them out for walks, outings, and other activities.
• Help them stick to their treatment plan, such as setting reminders to take prescribed medications.
• Make sure they have transportation or access to therapy appointments.
• Remind them that, with time and treatment, their depression can lift.

What are clinical trials and why are they important?

Clinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available.

NIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about  participating in clinical trials .

For more information

Learn more about mental health disorders and topics . For information about various health topics, visit the National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus   .

The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please cite the National Institute of Mental Health as the source. Read our copyright policy to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES National Institutes of Health NIH Publication No. 24-MH-8079 Revised 2024

Champagne and Coffee Stains

11 Revolutionary Apps That Have Transformed Mental Health Management

Posted: June 5, 2024 | Last updated: June 5, 2024

In the digital age, mental health management has taken a revolutionary turn with the advent of innovative mobile applications. These apps provide a range of services, from therapy, stress management, and mood tracking to mindfulness exercises, helping with specific conditions like anxiety and depression.

Here, we delve into 11 such transformative apps redefining mental health care.

Daylio: Your Personal Mood Tracker

Daylio is a unique app that allows users to maintain a private journal without typing a single line. It’s a mood tracker that lets you log your daily moods and activities, providing insights to understand your habits better. Integrating Daylio into their daily routine allows users to track their moods effectively, improving self-awareness and overall mental well-being.

Talkspace: Therapy at Your Fingertips

Talkspace is not just an online therapy platform; it’s therapy at your fingertips. This convenient way to receive mental health support without the constraints of location and scheduling can lead to improved mental well-being. With licensed therapists available 24/7, you can get the support you need, when you need it, privately and conveniently.

notOK: Your Digital Panic Button

notOK is a digital panic button that provides immediate support via text, phone call, or GPS location when you’re struggling to reach out. It’s a lifeline for those in need, ensuring that help is just a button press away.

Headspace: Mastering Mindfulness and Meditation

Headspace offers multiple mindfulness and meditation exercises. It acts as a personal guide, steering users towards a healthier, happier, and more mindful life. By mastering the art of mindfulness and meditation with Headspace, users can effectively manage stress, improve focus, and enhance overall mental well-being.

iBreathe: Your Stress Management Companion

iBreathe is explicitly designed to help manage stress. It offers simple and intuitive exercises that users can access anytime, anywhere to relax and alleviate stress. By incorporating iBreathe into their daily routine, users can effectively manage stress levels, enhance emotional resilience, and improve overall mental health. Embrace the digital revolution in mental health care with iBreathe, your reliable companion in the journey towards stress-free living.

MindShift CBT: Embrace Change

Is anxiety getting in the way of your life? MindShift CBT uses scientifically proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you learn to relax and be mindful. It’s a tool for tackling fear and anxiety. It allows users shift their mindset towards a more positive outlook, enhancing their resilience and overall mental well-being.

I Am Sober: Your Sobriety Tracker

I Am Sober helps you monitor your sobriety. It’s a motivational companion on the path to recovery from alcohol, drugs, or any other addiction. With 127M+ daily pledges made to stay sober, 30M+ Addictions set up and tracked, and 11M+ Stories shared with the community, I Am Sober is the #1 sobriety tracker.

With the integration of I Am Sober into their journey, users can effectively track their progress in breaking bad habits and reaching new milestones, promoting a positive and sober lifestyle in the digital age of mental health management.

MoodKit: Improve Your Mood

Designed by mental health experts, MoodKit uses the foundation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and is regularly praised for being a valuable app to benefit people with depression .

This app is designed to help you feel better. It offers more than 200 mood improvement activities, a journal, a thought tracker, and the ability to modify distressing thoughts. Integrating MoodKit into their daily routine allows users to effectively manage their emotions, adopt positive habits, and improve their mental health.

CBT-i Coach: Sleep Better

CBT-i Coach was a collaborative effort between the VA’s National Center for PTSD, Stanford School of Medicine, and DoD’s National Center for Telehealth and Technology. CBT-i Coach is for people engaged in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia with a health provider.

The app is designed to teach users about sleep, develop positive sleeping habits, and improve the atmosphere in which they sleep. A sleep therapy coach in your pocket provides strategies to improve sleep habits and achieve a healthier sleep cycle.

Happify: Overcome Negativity

Backed by science, Happify helps you overcome negative thoughts, stress, and life’s challenges. It’s a platform for building resilience and forming positive habits for a happier life. Happify provides solutions for individuals and organizations. By integrating Happify into their daily routines, users can effectively manage their emotions and improve their mental health.

Worry Watch: Track and Identify Your Worries

Worry Watch is a habit tracker designed to log and identify your worry trends. It’s a personal diary for worries, helping users better understand and manage their worry patterns. Worry Watch monitors users’ concerns in everyday life, improving mood and overall well-being. The app works offline; no internet connection is needed except during iCloud sync.

While these apps can be beneficial, they do not replace professional help. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Embrace the digital revolution in mental health management and step towards a healthier mind today!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice.

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Supporting employees in recovery to build a healthier workplace

While many employers prioritize the well-being of their employees, workplace policies often overlook addiction and substance use disorders — which can perpetuate stigma and hinder support for employees who need it. To address this, creating recovery-supportive workplace programs can reduce barriers, promote treatment, and foster a culture of understanding and compassion.

Substance use is prevalent in our modern culture, and millions of Americans experience substance use issues. 1 In fact, roughly 2 in 3 adults with a substance use disorder are employed. 2 They’re our colleagues, leaders, or ourselves. Most of those who are not yet engaged in support would benefit from it, but enduring stigma often prevents them from seeking help.

It’s important that workplaces take steps to support workers in recovery and those looking to reduce their use. Investing in substance use disorder treatment can improve the lives of your employees and yield significant cost benefits. Every dollar invested in treatment saves $4 in employer health care costs. 3 By building a recovery-ready workplace, business leaders can reduce their health care spending — while helping employees improve their health and maximize their potential.

Substance use disorders can effect anyone

Substance use affects people of all demographics and backgrounds. Our environment, the support we receive, and people’s attitudes toward substance use all influence how we engage with substances.

As with any health condition, people who suffer from substance use disorders deserve compassion and care. Unfortunately, stigma can force employees to hide their condition, rather than getting support. Erika Aguirre-Miyamoto, a licensed clinical social worker with Kaiser Permanente, explains that “they sometimes don’t want to admit that they’re not functioning at 100%. They may feel guilt, and fear of judgment or reprisal if they were to ‘out’ themselves by seeking treatment. They can end up isolated, which exacerbates their condition.”

“Life circumstances and even genetics can put people at a higher risk for developing a substance use disorder. If a person doesn’t have access to support, they may turn to self-medication to cope.”

— Erika Aguirre-Miyamoto, a licensed clinical social worker at Kaiser Permanente

Conversely, if employees feel safe enough to be open with their employer when they need help, they’re more likely to shift their substance use choices and behaviors. 54% would feel comfortable asking for help with a substance use problem from a co-worker they felt close to. 6

By creating a culture of trust and support in the workplace, more employees can get needed treatment — and employers can retain strong, dedicated teams.

Supporting employees in recovery is a smart investment

As an employer, your support can help remove barriers to behavior change and recovery — and reduce health care spending, lost productivity, and turnover costs.

Addiction and substance misuse add up to an economic toll of over $740 billion per year. 8 Workers with an untreated substance use disorder are more likely to have unplanned absences, missing over a week-and-a-half more than their peers annually. 9 They can also cost over $8,000 in additional turnover, absenteeism, and health care spending each year, per employee. 10 For executive-level employees, that number ranges as high as $15,000. 11

However, evidence shows that workers in recovery tend to stay in jobs longer and are less likely to be hospitalized compared with those with an untreated substance use disorder. They miss 14 fewer workdays each year than workers with an untreated substance use disorder, and 4 less days than an average employee. 12

How employers can create a recovery-ready workplace

A healthy workforce doesn’t come from policy alone — it takes deliberate steps to create a culture that employees feel safe and respected in, and to break the notion that employees who struggle with addiction have to hide their condition.

“The goal is to reduce harm,” Aguirre-Miyamoto says. “Punitive policies, forced leave, and suspension aren’t always helpful. We’ve all heard that you have to ‘hit rock bottom,’ but that’s not necessarily true. We don’t want employees to hit rock bottom at work. We want early intervention and prevention so it doesn’t get to that point.”

Create an inclusive, emotionally supportive workplace

Stressors like grief, injury, and even burnout at work can happen to anyone. They can lead to coping through substances, which can develop into substance misuse. It’s easy for people who are experiencing stressors or substance use to feel isolated and alone, so it’s important that employers create an inclusive and emotionally supportive environment for all employees.

Use the right words — Aguirre-Miyamoto says to “talk the talk and walk the walk.” Center and respect your employees by using language that doesn’t label or define them in relation to a condition.

• Use person-first terms: for example, “person with a substance use disorder,” rather than pejorative terms like “addict.”
• Use empathetic phrasing: “What are you struggling with?” rather than “What’s wrong with you?”

Provide trainings — Managers and employees alike can benefit from trainings to recognize signs of addiction, provide support, and identify and eliminate personal bias around addiction. More broadly, mental health awareness trainings can empower leadership to support their teams’ total health and wellbeing.

Address difficult working conditions — It goes without saying that employees should be safe in their work, but for industries that are physically or mentally taxing, work-related pain, injury, and illness can lead to substance misuse. Reducing conditions that could be harmful, encouraging work-life balance, and providing stress management resources can help mitigate unnecessary strain.

Consider workplace culture — Is there often alcohol served at company events? Offering mocktails, encouraging responsible drinking, limiting open bars, and holding social events that don’t center around or include alcohol can help make your workplace more inclusive and normalize socialization without substances.

Support behavior change and recovery

Offer health benefits for recovery — Comprehensive health care options can make all the difference for an employee seeking help. Employee assistance programs and peer support programs are also valuable offerings, as are informal accommodations like flexible work schedules and time off for treatment. Inform employees about relevant resources available through your organization or their union.

Be clear about substance use policies — Employers can create an open dialogue about the substance use policies in their office and industry and share the written policies directly with their workforce. The policies should clearly define and communicate second-chance act policies, return-to-work programs, and other protocols. In addition, employers should make it clear that employees can come to management for support.

Hire and retain employees in recovery — Facilitate return-to-work plans for employees who have taken leave for treatment, and be supportive of their recovery. Extend employment opportunities to people who are in or seeking recovery. The federal government offers tax credits and programs that incentivize businesses for hiring people in recovery, and the U.S. Department of Labor provides a Recovery-Ready Workplace Toolkit .

Building trust to create stronger, healthier teams

By taking steps to foster and sustain a recovery-ready workplace, employers can create a culture of support that pays dividends — in terms of employee well-being, as well as financially. Employers curate their health plan benefits, their workplace environment, and their company culture. Their policies can be a significant source of support for people with substance use disorders — or a hurdle to behavior change and recovery. Consider how your company culture can support the health and belonging of your employees, and how your policies can help create a recovery-ready workplace.

Recognize and address the early signs of employee burnout

Discover what can cause burnout and how to create a culture better equipped to manage stressors.

About our expert

Erika Aguirre-Miyamoto is the director of operations for Kaiser Permanente’s Southern California Regional Behavioral Health Department. Prior to joining the regional team, she was a department administrator for the Addiction Medicine, Center for Healthy Living, and Neurology departments at Downey Medical Center. She came to Kaiser Permanente from the nonprofit sector, where she worked as clinical director and chief programs officer of a community organization providing services to people experiencing homelessness, substance use, and mental health issues in Los Angeles.

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Find the right plan for your business (877) 305-7933

“2022 Workplace Recovery Survey Report,” forsmarsh.com, accessed April 16, 2024.

Michael R. Frone et al., “Workplace Supported Recovery from Substance Use Disorders: Defining the Construct, Developing a Model, and Proposing an Agenda for Future Research,” National Library of Medicine, May 18, 2023.

Surgeon General’s Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health, 2017.

See note 2.

See note 3.

See note 1.

“Substance Use Disorders By Occupation,” National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago, accessed April 11, 2024.

See note 9.

“New Analysis: Employers Stand to Save an Average of $8,500 for Supporting Each Employee in Recovery from a Substance Use Disorder,” National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago, accessed April 11, 2024.

See note 12.

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How To Create a Holistic Mental Health App Business Plan: Checklist

By alex ryzhkov, resources on holistic mental health app.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan
• Bundle Business Plan & Fin Model

Welcome to our blog post on how to write a business plan for a Holistic Mental Health App! In today's fast-paced world, where mental health issues are on the rise, this industry is experiencing significant growth. In fact, research indicates that the digital mental health market is projected to reach a worth of $11.5 billion by 2027.

To tap into this booming market and create a successful app, it is crucial to follow a well-structured plan. By taking the following 9 steps, you can ensure that your Holistic Mental Health App meets the specific needs of your target audience while standing out from the competition.

• Identify the target audience and their specific needs by conducting thorough research and analysis.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to gain insights into the industry landscape.
• Define the unique selling proposition of your app, highlighting what sets it apart from existing solutions.
• Determine the revenue model and pricing strategy that will generate sustainable income for your app.
• Outline the app's features and functionalities, ensuring they are user-friendly and cater to the mental health needs of your audience.
• Create a comprehensive marketing and promotional plan to reach your target audience effectively.
• Develop a strong brand identity and positioning that resonates with your target audience.
• Identify potential partnerships or collaborations that can enhance the value and reach of your app.
• Set financial goals and projections to track your app's progress and measure its success.

By following these steps and meticulously crafting your business plan, you will be well on your way to developing a Holistic Mental Health App that empowers individuals, promotes mental well-being, and contributes to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues.

Identify The Target Audience And Their Specific Needs

Before creating a business plan for your holistic mental health app, it is crucial to identify your target audience and understand their specific needs. This step will guide the development process and ensure that your app caters to the right audience.

To start, consider the demographics of your target audience, such as age, gender, and location. This information will help you tailor the app to their preferences and expectations. For example, if your target audience is predominantly young adults, you might want to incorporate trendy design elements and interactive features.

Next, dive deeper into the specific needs and challenges faced by your target audience in relation to mental health. Understanding these needs will enable you to develop features and content that address their concerns. For instance, if your target audience consists of busy professionals, incorporating time-efficient stress management techniques or quick meditation sessions would be beneficial.

• Conduct surveys or interviews with your target audience to gather insights directly from the source.
• Engage with mental health professionals to gain a better understanding of the needs specific to different mental health conditions.
• Consider consulting with experts in the field to ensure your app meets industry standards and fulfills the needs of your target audience.

Identifying the target audience and their specific needs is the foundation of a successful holistic mental health app. By understanding the demographics, challenges, and aspirations of your audience, you can create a user-centric app that truly addresses their mental health concerns and provides the support they seek.

Conduct Market Research And Competitive Analysis

Before diving into the development process of your Holistic Mental Health App, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis. This step will help you gain a deeper understanding of the target audience, identify their specific needs, and evaluate your competitors’ offerings.

One key aspect of market research is identifying your target audience. Determine the age group, demographics, and specific pain points of individuals who would benefit from your app. This will help you tailor your app's features and functionalities to meet their needs effectively.

Additionally, it is important to stay updated with the latest trends and innovations in the mental health app market. Analyze existing apps that offer similar solutions and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Identify the gaps in the market that your app can fill, and determine how you can differentiate yourself from your competitors.

• Read reviews of competitor apps to understand user feedback and areas for improvement.
• Consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gather insights directly from your target audience.
• Keep an eye on industry reports and statistics to stay informed about market trends and potential opportunities.

By conducting comprehensive market research and competitive analysis, you will have a solid foundation for developing a successful Holistic Mental Health App. This step will guide your decision-making process and ensure your app is tailored to meet the specific needs of your target audience.

Define The Unique Selling Proposition Of The App

Defining the unique selling proposition (USP) of your mental health app is crucial in setting it apart from the competition and attracting your target audience. The USP is a concise statement that identifies the distinct value and benefits your app offers to users.

• Identify the core problem your app solves: To create a compelling USP, start by understanding the specific pain points and challenges faced by your target audience in terms of mental health. Consider how your app addresses these challenges and offers a unique solution.
• Showcase the key features and functionalities: Highlight the key features that make your app stand out. Whether it's the comprehensive mood tracking system or the virtual therapy sessions with licensed professionals, emphasize the unique aspects of your app that differentiate it from existing solutions.
• Focus on accessibility and personalization: One of the crucial factors that sets your app apart is the ability to provide accessible and personalized mental health support. Emphasize how your app tailors its content and resources to the specific needs and preferences of each user, offering a highly personalized experience.
• Highlight the importance of privacy and data security: In today's digital landscape, privacy and data security are essential considerations for users. Emphasize how your app prioritizes user privacy, ensuring a safe and confidential space for individuals seeking mental well-being.
• Research and analyze your competitors' offerings to identify the gaps in the market that your app can fill.
• Consider conducting user surveys or interviews to gain insights into what potential users find valuable and appealing in a mental health app.
• Keep your USP clear and concise, focusing on the key benefits that make your app unique.
• Use persuasive language and storytelling techniques to convey how your app can positively impact users' mental well-being.

Determine The Revenue Model And Pricing Strategy

When it comes to developing a successful business plan for a holistic mental health app, determining the revenue model and pricing strategy is crucial. This step involves thoroughly considering how the app will generate income and setting pricing that reflects the value and benefits it provides to users.

1. Research and analyze revenue models: Start by researching and analyzing various revenue models that are commonly used in the healthcare and mental health app industry. This will help you understand the different approaches and identify which one suits your app the best.

• Consider subscription-based models, where users pay a recurring fee to access the app's features and services.
• Explore the freemium model, offering a basic version of the app for free and charging for premium features.
• Evaluate the viability of an advertising-based model, where the app generates revenue through advertisements displayed to its users.

2. Determine pricing: Once you have assessed different revenue models, it's time to set the pricing for your app. This should align with the unique selling proposition and the value it offers to your target audience.

• Consider conducting market research and competitor analysis to understand the pricing of similar mental health apps in the market.
• Offer different pricing tiers or plans to cater to different user needs and budgets.
• Consider offering discounts or promotional offers during the app's initial launch phase to attract early users.

By thoroughly considering the revenue model and pricing strategy, you can ensure that your holistic mental health app is not only sustainable but also provides a fair and valuable pricing structure for your target audience.

Outline The App's Features And Functionalities

When outlining the features and functionalities of your holistic mental health app, it is crucial to ensure that they align with the needs and preferences of your target audience. Here are some important features to consider:

• Mood Tracking: Allow users to track their daily moods, emotions, and any potential triggers that might affect their mental well-being. This feature can include options for users to log their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
• Guided Meditation Sessions: Provide users with a library of guided meditation sessions in different lengths and styles. These sessions can help individuals relax, reduce stress, and maintain a positive mindset.
• Stress Management Techniques: Offer interactive tools and techniques to manage stress and anxiety. This can include breathing exercises, mindfulness activities, and tips for coping with specific stressors.
• Virtual Therapy Sessions: Enable users to schedule virtual therapy sessions with licensed professionals through the app. This feature should include secure video conferencing capabilities and ensure confidential communication.
• Community Support Forum: Create a space where users can connect with others, share their experiences, and receive support from a community of like-minded individuals. This forum should be moderated and encourage positive interactions.
• Ensure that the app's interface is user-friendly and intuitive for easy navigation.
• Consider integrating gamification elements to enhance user engagement and motivation.
• Regularly update and add new features based on user feedback and industry trends.

By offering a comprehensive range of features and functionalities, your holistic mental health app can provide users with the tools they need to actively manage their mental well-being. Remember to continually adapt and improve these features based on the evolving needs of your target audience.

Create A Marketing And Promotional Plan

Marketing and promotion are essential components of successfully launching and gaining visibility for your Holistic Mental Health App. It's important to create a comprehensive plan that targets the right audience and effectively communicates the value and benefits of your app. Here are some key steps to consider:

• Define your target market: Clearly identify your target audience and understand their demographics, preferences, and behavior. This will help you tailor your marketing messages and strategies to effectively reach them.
• Develop a marketing strategy: Create a strategic plan outlining your marketing goals, objectives, and tactics. Consider using a mix of digital and traditional marketing channels such as social media, content marketing, email campaigns, advertising, and public relations to maximize your reach.
• Build an online presence: Establish a strong online presence by creating a professional website and optimizing it for search engines. Leverage social media platforms to engage with your target audience, share valuable content, and build a community around your app.
• Content marketing: Provide valuable and informative content related to mental health and wellbeing through blog posts, articles, videos, or podcasts. This can help position your app as a trusted resource and attract potential users.
• Engage with influencers: Identify influential individuals in the mental health and wellness space who align with your brand values. Collaborate with them to promote your app and leverage their reach and credibility to increase awareness.
• Offer incentives and referral programs: Encourage app users to spread the word by implementing referral programs and offering incentives such as discounts or exclusive content for referrals. This can help generate positive word-of-mouth and increase user acquisition.
• Regularly analyze and optimize: Continuously monitor and analyze the performance of your marketing efforts. Use analytics tools to track user engagement, conversion rates, and return on investment. Adjust your strategies and tactics based on the data to maximize your marketing effectiveness.
• Consider partnering with mental health professionals or organizations to gain credibility and reach a wider audience.
• Utilize email marketing to nurture and engage with your user base. Send regular newsletters, updates, and helpful resources to keep users engaged and informed.
• Consider offering a free trial or limited access to your app to allow potential users to experience its benefits and promote conversion.
• Incorporate user testimonials and success stories in your marketing materials to build trust and credibility.

Develop A Strong Brand Identity And Positioning

Developing a strong brand identity and positioning for your Holistic Mental Health App is crucial for standing out in a competitive market and attracting your target audience. Here are some key steps to help you establish a powerful and memorable brand presence:

• Define your brand attributes: Start by identifying the core values and characteristics that define your app. Consider factors such as reliability, compassion, innovation, and personalization. These attributes will shape how your app is perceived by users and differentiate it from your competitors.
• Create a compelling brand story: Craft a narrative that showcases the mission, vision, and purpose behind your Holistic Mental Health App. Your brand story should resonate with your target audience and emphasize the positive impact your app can have on their mental well-being.
• Design a unique visual identity: Develop a visually appealing and cohesive brand identity that reflects your app's values and resonates with your target audience. This includes selecting a distinctive logo, choosing a color palette that evokes the desired emotions, and ensuring consistent branding across all communication channels.
• Establish your brand voice: Determine the tone and language that align with your app's personality and values. Whether it's warm and empathetic or professional and informative, your brand voice should be consistent across all interactions with users, including app content, social media posts, and customer support.
• Build relationships through content marketing: Develop a content marketing strategy to provide valuable, educational, and engaging content related to holistic mental health. This can include blog articles, videos, podcasts, and social media posts that focus on mental well-being, stress management, mindfulness, and related topics. Consistently sharing valuable content will help position your app as a trusted resource in the field.
• Engage with your community: Foster a sense of community and engagement by encouraging users to share their experiences, provide feedback, and participate in discussions related to mental health. Actively respond to comments and messages to show that you value and prioritize user input.
• Cultivate strategic partnerships: Identify potential partnerships or collaborations with mental health professionals, influencers, or organizations that align with your app's mission and values. These partnerships can help increase brand visibility, credibility, and reach within your target audience.
• Consistency is key: Ensure that your brand identity and messaging are consistent across all touchpoints to build recognition and trust with your audience.
• Stay true to your values: Let your app's core values guide your branding decisions, allowing you to connect authentically with your target audience.
• Monitor feedback: Pay attention to user feedback and adapt your brand positioning if necessary. This will help you refine your app's value proposition and better meet the needs of your users.

Identify Potential Partnerships Or Collaborations

Identifying potential partnerships or collaborations is a crucial step in the development of a holistic mental health app. By forming strategic alliances with like-minded organizations or individuals, you can enhance the overall value and reach of your app. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind as you identify potential partnerships or collaborations:

• Align with reputable mental health professionals: Seek partnerships with licensed therapists, psychologists, or counselors who can provide virtual therapy sessions through your app. Collaborating with professionals known for their expertise and credibility in the field of mental health will lend credibility to your app and instill trust in your target audience.
• Engage with complementary businesses: Look for businesses or organizations that offer services or products that align with the holistic mental health concept. This could include yoga studios, meditation centers, gyms, or wellness retreats. By partnering with such entities, you can create cross-promotional opportunities, share resources, and enhance the overall user experience of your app.
• Explore potential collaborations: Consider collaborating with mental health advocacy groups, non-profit organizations, or universities with research programs focused on mental health. By partnering with these entities, you can leverage their expertise, resources, and existing networks to expand the reach and impact of your app.
• Craft a compelling pitch: When approaching potential partners or collaborators, clearly articulate the benefits and value that your app can bring to their audience or organization. Highlight how the partnership or collaboration can mutually benefit both parties.
• Establish clear partnership terms: Clearly define the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of each partner or collaborator. This will help ensure a smooth working relationship and avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts in the future.
• Nurture relationships: Building strong and lasting relationships with your partners or collaborators is crucial. Regularly communicate, provide updates, and offer support to maintain a positive and mutually beneficial partnership.

Remember, the key to identifying potential partnerships or collaborations is to find organizations or individuals who share your mission and values in promoting holistic mental health. Together, you can create a stronger and more impactful solution for individuals seeking support and well-being through your app.

Set Financial Goals And Projections

Setting financial goals and projections is a crucial step in the business planning process for a holistic mental health app. It allows you to define your financial objectives and forecast the future financial performance of your app. Here are some important considerations:

• Establish revenue goals: Determine the amount of revenue you aim to generate within a specific timeframe. This could be monthly, quarterly, or annually. Consider factors such as market demand, pricing strategy, and marketing efforts.
• Project expenses: Accurately estimate the costs associated with launching and maintaining the app. This includes development costs, operational expenses, marketing and advertising costs, staff salaries, and any ongoing maintenance and updates.
• Forecast user acquisition: Predict the number of users you expect to acquire over time. This can be based on market research and competitor analysis. Consider factors such as user demographics, target market size, and potential growth opportunities.
• Analyze pricing strategy: Evaluate the optimal pricing structure for your app, considering factors such as competitive pricing, perceived value, and target audience affordability. Utilize price elasticity models, market research, and customer feedback to determine the pricing plan that maximizes revenue while remaining attractive to users.
• Calculate customer lifetime value (CLTV): Determine the average value a customer brings to your business throughout their lifetime as an active user. This metric helps in understanding the long-term revenue potential of your app and can influence marketing and customer retention strategies.

Tips for setting financial goals and projections:

• Ensure your financial goals are ambitious but realistic, considering market conditions and industry trends.
• Regularly review and update your projections as your app evolves and new data becomes available.
• Consider consulting with financial advisors or industry experts to gain insights and ensure accurate forecasting.
• Keep an eye on key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress of your financial goals and make necessary adjustments.
• Clearly document your financial goals and projections in your business plan to demonstrate a thorough understanding of your app's financial potential.

In conclusion, developing a business plan for a holistic mental health app requires careful consideration and strategic thinking. By identifying the target audience and their specific needs, conducting market research, and defining a unique selling proposition, you can create a strong foundation for your app. Additionally, outlining the app's features, developing a marketing plan, and establishing a brand identity will help position your app in the market and attract users. Finally, setting financial goals and projections, as well as identifying potential partnerships, will contribute to the success and sustainability of your app. By following these nine steps, you can lay the groundwork for a successful and impactful holistic mental health app.

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I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

If you are inadmissible to the United States and are seeking an immigrant visa, adjustment of status, certain nonimmigrant statuses, or certain other immigration benefits, you must file this form to seek a waiver of certain grounds of inadmissibility. Please refer to the instructions to determine whether you should use this form.

You must submit all 11 pages.

Forms and Document Downloads

Form I-601 (PDF, 600.79 KB)

Instructions for Form I-601 (PDF, 490.51 KB)

Flowchart: Filing Certain Waivers of Inadmissibility (PDF, 578.67 KB)

Form Details

04/01/24 . You can find the edition date at the bottom of the page on the form and instructions.

Dates are listed in mm/dd/yy format.

If you complete and print this form to mail it, make sure that the form edition date and page numbers are visible at the bottom of all pages and that all pages are from the same form edition. If any of the form’s pages are missing or are from a different form edition, we may reject your form.

If you need help downloading and printing forms, read our instructions . 

The filing location depends on the immigration benefit you are seeking. To view a complete list of addresses, go to our  Direct Filing Addresses  page.

You can find the filing fee for Form I-601 by visiting our Fee Schedule page.

Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status , on the basis of classification as an Afghan special immigrant, or for any associated biometric services or to file an associated Form I-601.

Through Sept. 30, 2024, there is no fee to file Form I-601 individually with an approved Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative , filed with USCIS in the United States for an Afghan national (beneficiary) who has a visa immediately available.

You can pay the fee with a money order, personal check, cashier’s check or  pay by credit card or debit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions . If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

When you send a payment, you agree to pay for a government service. Filing fees are final and non-refundable, regardless of any action we take on your application, petition, or request, or if you withdraw your request.   If you pay by credit card or debit card, you cannot later dispute the payment. Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.

If you are submitting multiple forms, pay each filing fee separately. We are transitioning to electronically processing immigration benefit requests, which requires us to use multiple systems to process your package. We may reject your entire package if you submit a single, combined payment for multiple forms.

Please do not submit this checklist with your Form I-601. The checklist is an optional tool to use as you prepare your form, but does not replace statutory, regulatory, and form instruction requirements. We recommend that you review these requirements before completing and submitting your forms.  Do not send original documents unless specifically requested in the form instructions or applicable regulations.

If you submit any documents (copies or original documents, if requested) in a foreign language, you must include a full English translation along with a certification from the translator verifying that the translation is complete and accurate, and that they are competent to translate from the foreign language into English.

Did you provide the following?

• Evidence that establishes why you may qualify for a waiver of inadmissibility, which depends on the ground(s) of inadmissibility that apply to you and should include evidence to show why we should grant you a waiver of inadmissibility as a matter of discretion. 
• If applying for a waiver that requires you to a showing of extreme hardship to a spouse, parent, son, or daughter of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you must submit evidence establishing the family relationship and evidence that shows the denial of admission would result in extreme hardship to your qualifying relative.
• If you are a VAWA self-petitioner seeking a waiver for immigration fraud or misrepresentation, you may show how the denial of admission would result in extreme hardship to your qualifying relatives or yourself. 
• Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility due to a communicable disease of public health significance (if applicable).
• Evidence to support your request for a vaccination exemption (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver of inadmissibility due to physical or mental disorder and associated harmful behavior (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver of criminal grounds of inadmissibility found in INA section 212(a)(2) (if applicable)
• Evidence to support waiver for immigration fraud or misrepresentation (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility because of your membership in a totalitarian party (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver for inadmissibility due to alien smuggling (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver of inadmissibility due to being the subject of a civil penalty under INA section 212(a)(6)(F) (if applicable).
• Evidence to support a waiver of the 3-or 10-year unlawful presence bar under INA section 212(a)(9)(B)(v) (if applicable).
• If you are a TPS applicant, evidence that a waiver is warranted. 
• Evidence that you warrant a waiver of inadmissibility based on factors that would be considered if you were seeking consent to reapply if you are seeking adjustment of status under NACARA section 202 or HRIFA section 902, and inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(9)(A) or (C). 
• Evidence that shows connection between the battery or extreme cruelty that is the basis for the VAWA claim and the self-petitioner’s removal, departure from the United States, reentry or re-entries into the United States, or attempted reentry into the United States if you are an approved VAWA self-petitioner or child of an approved VAWA self-petitioner and inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(9)(C)(i).   
• Evidence to support waiver if you are an applicant for adjustment of status as a Special Immigrant Juvenile (if applicable).

Filing Tips for Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility

Complete  all sections  of the form. We will reject the form if these fields are missing:

• Family Name
• Mailing Address
• Date of Birth

Filing Tips:  Review our  Tips for Filing Forms by Mail  page for information on how to ensure we will accept your form.

Don’t forget to sign your form.  We will reject any unsigned form.

E-Notification:  If you want to receive an e-mail and/or text message that we have accepted your form at a USCIS lockbox, complete  Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance  and clip it to the first page of your form. 

Fee Waiver:  We will accept a fee waiver request from:

• A VAWA self-petitioner;
• An applicant for a T visa;
• A battered spouse or child of a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen;
• An applicant for Temporary Protected Status;
• A Special Immigrant Juvenile; or
• Any other noncitizen for whom  a determination of their likelihood of becoming a public charge under section 212(a)(4) is not required at the time of their application for admission or adjustment of status.

Please see our Fee Waiver page for more information.

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AppHealthCare Announces Partnership with CredibleMind, Expanding Access to Convenient and Confidential Mental Well-being Resources for Community Members

AppHealthCare is excited to announce its partnership with CredibleMind to expand access to mental wellbeing resources. CredibleMind is an intuitive platform offering localized, wellness-oriented digital content that enables employees, insurers, healthcare providers, and community organizations to support consumer-centric engagement and provide personalized mental health resources. The partnership will make CredibleMind an accessible digital resource to AppHealthCare’s more than 93,000 community members in Alleghany, Ashe and Watauga Counties. CredibleMind is the free online platform that brings together expert rated and vetted videos, podcasts, apps, online programs, books and articles all in...

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How Selena Gomez Is Revolutionizing the Celebrity Beauty Business

Y ou would not think the most-followed woman on Instagram would be able to walk through one of New York City’s biggest tourist attractions unbothered. Yet here she is, strolling in a pair of cozy booties through Central Park with a travel mug of tea tucked in her arm, very nearly blending in. If not for the security guard and personal assistant trailing discreetly behind, Selena Gomez might be any other person out for fresh air on a drizzly May morning.

This is, to put it mildly, surprising. But she shrugs it off. “I don’t really have anything impressive going on at all times,” she deadpans, gesturing to her casual getup. “Or anytime, really.”

It’s a funny thing to hear from someone who has been on TV since she was 10 years old, found success as an actor and pop star, and is now the founder of a business reportedly worth $2 billion . Gomez, 31, is one of the most recognizable people in the world , and yet she’s right—as we meander down a pedestrian path and into the mud, most of the people around us seem not to notice her.

Gomez has cultivated an everywoman quality and a mastery of public vulnerability—hers is the kind of fame that comes from growing up alongside your fans, offering an example of what it’s like to fall in love, try things, and make mistakes. Her openness about her mental health has endeared her to millions of young people coping with the isolating experiences of anxiety , depression, and other disorders. And she has channeled all of that into her company, Rare Beauty , a rising player she bills as a beauty brand that, instead of selling an unattainable image, aims to help people feel good about themselves.

Mental health and makeup may not seem like an obvious pairing, but Gomez’s vision has paid off. Rare Beauty, not yet four years old, is a top seller at Sephora and available in 36 countries, according to the company. After launching in 2020, annual sales grew 100% from 2021 to 2022, and 200% the following year; they hit $400 million for the 12 months ending in May.

Rare Beauty’s products, from a liquid highlighter to a body and hair mist with names like Positive Light and Find Comfort, are designed to be inclusive in terms of shade range and easy-to-use packaging (crucial to Gomez herself, who takes a drug for lupus that can cause her hands to shake). Gomez says Rare began not with her ideas for specific makeup products but instead with her hope to support people struggling with their mental health. So she launched the company with a philanthropic arm, the Rare Impact Fund , with the goal of raising $100 million in the brand’s first 10 years, and pledged that 1% of all product sales would be funneled into the foundation. With $13 million raised to date, the Rare Impact Fund has given grants to 26 organizations across five continents working to improve mental health.

Gomez and her team are managing to sell millions of dollars worth of product while also promoting the idea that no one needs makeup. “I hope I don’t, and I hope Rare Beauty doesn’t, give off the vibe that you have to do anything,” she says. I ask what she makes of a common double standard, how people can be judged for leaving imperfections uncovered, but also deemed insecure if they wear too much makeup. She points out that she’s gone nearly barefaced today, wearing only some under-eye brightener. “I think it’s bullsh-t,” she says. “If you want my opinion on that.”

When you’re as famous as Gomez is, your personal life becomes global fodder. The Texas native broke out on Disney’s 2007–12 series Wizards of Waverly Place, went on to launch a music career, and built her résumé in film and TV with projects like Spring Breakers and 13 Reasons Why . All the while, interest in her relationships and inner life only grew. In 2016, she was in the middle of a worldwide tour for her album Revival when she suddenly pulled out, revealing she had been struggling with anxiety and depression as side effects from lupus, which in 2017 necessitated a kidney transplant . She says now that she’s “50-50” on whether she’ll ever go on a major tour again. “Nothing makes me happier than 90 minutes of being with my fans and just celebrating together,” she says. On the other hand, “It is very emotionally draining for me. And then you realize you’re just surrounded by a bunch of people that you’re paying.”

In April 2020, just months before she launched Rare Beauty, Gomez disclosed that she’d been diagnosed with bipolar disorder . She shared with Rolling Stone two years later that she had suffered from suicidal ideation and been to four treatment centers. Her 2022 documentary, My Mind and Me , offered a raw look at her mental health over a six-year period, filling in new details of a story that had been told in headlines.

Gomez often laments the impact of social media on her own health and encourages others to get offline. (She has declared at least five times since 2018 that she’s taking a break from Instagram , where her current follower count is 427 million.) An assistant maintained her accounts for four years. She’s back to posting most of her content herself now, which includes promo for Rare Beauty and her film and TV projects, but she tries not to linger on the apps. And she’s deliberate about who she chooses to spend her time with IRL. “It’s a cliché, but girls are mean,” she says. “It’s a very weird competition, being in the cool girls area—and then I’m just kind of like, there. I don’t know where I’m meant to belong.” Her best friends are a real estate agent, a producer, and a casting director, she says. “I love having levelheaded people around that couldn’t give two f-cks about what I do.”

The importance of building meaningful relationships is something Gomez talks about a lot in her work with Rare Beauty. The U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy , has become a frequent conversation partner with her at events, where they discuss his research on the loneliness epidemic. “It’s hard,” she says. “You could be in a crowd of people and still feel alone. I still deal with that.”

She’s a proponent of feeling your feelings. A younger friend of hers going through a breakup recently asked how anyone manages the pain of heartbreak. “You have to go through it. You can distract yourself and you can deny and deny all you want, but it’ll still be there,” Gomez advised. Covering it up is not the answer. “I just allow myself to have those days.”

I ask if having a partner is helpful when it comes to the big feelings we’re talking about, now that she’s openly sharing her relationship with producer and songwriter Benny Blanco—or if it’s irrelevant. “It’s a little irrelevant, only because he isn’t my only source of happiness,” Gomez says. “I was alone for five years, and I got really used to it. A lot of people are afraid of being alone and I probably tortured myself in my head for like two years being alone, and then I kind of accepted it. Then I came up with my plan, which was I was going to adopt at 35 if I had not met anyone.” Enter Blanco, who Gomez says she’d first thought of as a friend—she even asked him if he knew anyone he could set her up with. But when he brought her to meet his friend at a birthday party, she realized she liked him. “It just happens when you least expect it,” she says. 

Blanco recently told Howard Stern he wants to marry and have kids with Gomez. She laughs when I bring it up: “He can’t lie to save his life. If he’s asked a question, he’ll answer it.” She, on the other hand, has a lifetime of experience that has taught her to be more cautious. “I know what people can do to people I love. My own fans, who I adore and feel like have shaped who I am, will say the most hurtful things to me about how I live my life. But he has the strength in him that none of that noise fazes him. It’s really impressive, and I just cherish every moment with him. I don’t know what the future holds, but I do know that he’s not going anywhere any time soon.”

For now, she’s trying to be present. Acting is one part of life that affords her the chance to be fully focused. Her film Emilia Perez premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in May—she and her co-stars received the festival’s best actress award—and she’ll soon wrap the fourth season of Only Murders in the Building , a working environment she describes as feeling like home. ( Meryl Streep walks around the set barefoot, singing! Sitting with Steve Martin , Martin Short , Streep, and guest star Eugene Levy recently made Gomez want to cry for the way they made her feel like she belongs. “I’ll ask them, When did you stop caring about what people said?" she says. "And they’ll all just ring off these one liners that'll just kill me.")

And she is well. Her lupus is in remission, blood pressure is good, the kidney is working like it’s supposed to. I ask if she ever feels like it’s unfair—she’s 31 years old, living with bipolar and an incurable autoimmune disease, and knows what it’s like to spend weeks in the ICU. She responds with a story about a boy she met during a hospital visit when she was 18. He wouldn’t look her in the eye until she shared that she, too, suffered from lupus. “It was so sweet,” she says. “In a weird way, I turned the bad things into a good thing.”

Celebrity beauty brands abound, from Ariana Grande’s r.e.m. to Lady Gaga’s Haus Labs to Jennifer Lopez’s JLo Beauty. Creating a line of consumer products is an age-old way for entertainers to diversify their revenue streams in a fickle industry, but stamping an über-famous name on a lipstick is no longer enough to make consumers want to buy it. The formulas still have to be good, and there needs to be a reason for the brand to exist. Kylie Jenner repeatedly sold out of her Kylie Cosmetics Lip Kits , with customers hoping to achieve the same plumped look she had. (She eventually disclosed that she has received filler .) Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty , the top-selling celebrity brand reportedly at roughly $600 million in annual sales, differentiated itself when it launched in 2017 by emphasizing its inclusive products for darker skin tones—a priority that aligned with Rihanna’s values .

Gomez wants Rare Beauty to be a place where customers can go for affordable luxury products (compare Rare’s $30 foundation with Fenty’s $40 or Chantecaille’s $90 product, which went viral when the Euphoria makeup artist revealed she used it on the cast), but stay for a community of like-minded people who are comforted by the affirming ethos of the brand Gomez has created by emphasizing her own struggles. “That means a lot to the mental-health community, when someone is willing to be super honest,” says Rudi Berry , a beauty influencer who also posts about living with OCD. “When you deal with mental health issues, it can feel really isolating, like you’re the only one on earth going through it.”

Rare’s focus on mental health, and its investment in the cause through the Rare Impact Fund, not only fulfills its founder’s vision—it’s also good business. In a 2023 study of Gen Z and millennial consumers in the U.S., 80% said they were more likely to purchase from a brand based on its mission. Another 2023 study found that Gen Z wants brands to focus on mental health more than any other issue, including climate. “We’re at a really exciting turning point in the private sector, where brands can be leveraged in a powerful and meaningful way to contribute to society,” says Elyse Cohen, Rare Beauty’s executive vice president of social impact. As president of the Rare Impact Fund, Cohen and her team identify and vet potential grantees, from well-known organizations like the Trevor Project , a suicide-prevention and crisis-intervention organization for LGBTQ youth , to smaller, grassroots groups like the Mindful Life Project , a California nonprofit that places mental-health coaches in schools.

For Mindful Life founder JG Larochette, two $150,000 grants have meant the ability to expand full-time services from 28 schools in six cities to 50 schools in 13 cities. The exposure Larochette has received through partnering with the brand online and at events has opened more doors to more potential funding, which can be a struggle for lesser-known nonprofits. “There’s a lot to be said when Selena Gomez and her team put a stamp of approval on you,” he says. And his work with Rare Beauty has helped him understand the way his student population is interacting with makeup: “If you look at the social media, it’s about authenticity. It’s about creativity. It’s about expression. You’re beautiful as you are, and you can express yourself as you want.” 

Of all the parts of Rare Beauty, Gomez is primarily focused on the impact fund and product development. She relies on her managers, her lawyer, and the company’s executives to help run the business. “I will admit it overwhelms me sometimes. I have this weird thing in my head where if I focus on the numbers, I’ll lose whatever it is that made Rare Beauty Rare Beauty,” she says. “I never wanted it to be about making a lot of money and that’s it.”

But it is making a lot of money. In 2023, sales of its most popular product, a $23 liquid blush, reached $70 million. Earlier this year, rumors swirled when Bloomberg reported Gomez had brought on financial advisers to weigh a sale or IPO . On our walk, she’s quick to shut down the idea that she’s selling. “I don’t have any plans on that, genuinely,” she says, adding that she’s working on products for the next few years.

CEO Scott Friedman says it took a few years to build the company’s infrastructure while navigating a COVID-19-era launch and managing supply-chain issues; with things more settled, they recently retained investment banks to help envision the future. “We’re going to decide what’s the best way for us to become one of the largest, if not the largest, prestige beauty brands in the world, and it’s not a rush,” he says. “We are making our decisions to grow in the long run.”

Gomez says she gets more comments from strangers about Rare than anything else, and it means a lot that people enjoy the products for what they are, not because she made them. “That’s what makes me most proud,” she says. “When I’m able to have something like Rare or a single that people can relate to, I get so much joy when people say, ‘Hey, that helped me through a difficult time.’” 

This is what we’re talking about—the value of real connection with other people—when we run out of trail. Suddenly, we’re deposited on the street, the noise of midday Manhattan a smack in the face. The bubble has burst and Gomez is spotted by a man dressed in all black. He holds his phone up to her face and walks backward to match her stride as he films her, saying nothing. 

“You don’t feel real sometimes,” Gomez says, continuing on. Half a block later, the guy is gone, and she’s back to observing the people on the street, rather than the other way around. New York is a place where a person can move freely, she notes. She can envision her 10-year-old sister being happy here, like the kids she sees walking themselves to school. “They’re completely fine on their own. They have an ownership—you have to own your life, you have to make a way for yourself,” Gomez says. “I kind of appreciate the realness.”

If you or someone you know may be experiencing a mental-health crisis or contemplating suicide, call or text 988. In emergencies, call 911, or seek care from a local hospital or mental health provider.

Set design by Jenny Correa; styling by Erin Walsh; hair by Orlando Pita; makeup by Hung Vanngo

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Write to Lucy Feldman at [email protected]