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New Delhi, India — India’s enterprise-driven business-to-business-to-consumer (B2B2C) mental health market is set to expand to approximately $3.9 billion by FY29, driven by rapid digital adoption and a growing demand for mental health support. A recent report from market research firm Redseer projects that the demand for mental health services in India will surge 1.7 times over the coming years, with corporate and educational institutions leading this transformation by recognizing mental health as key to productivity and educational outcomes.
According to Jasbir Juneja, a representative from Redseer, over 200 million Indians currently experience mental health issues, yet only about 10-15% seek professional support. This significant gap highlights an urgent need for scalable, accessible solutions — a demand increasingly being met through digital-first approaches, which are gaining popularity for their reach and convenience.
The report notes that while the B2B2C segment is booming, business-to-consumer (B2C) mental health services are also on a steady growth path. The B2C sector is expected to grow 1.4 times by FY29, largely due to heightened awareness among parents about neurodevelopmental disorders that impact brain development and cognitive functions. In India, an estimated 2.9 to 3.2 million children are affected by these disorders, underscoring the role of offline counseling and neurodevelopment centers.
The educational sector, in particular, has shown strong support for mental health initiatives. Many institutions are integrating social-emotional learning (SEL) programs that promote empathy, self-awareness, and interpersonal skills among students. According to Redseer, the SEL segment in educational institutions is anticipated to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16% from FY24 to FY29, underscoring a growing commitment to mental health in schools and colleges.
Mental health conditions affect nearly 15% of India’s population, ranging from anxiety to neurodevelopmental disorders, with untreated conditions leading to substantial economic consequences. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that mental health issues could result in productivity losses amounting to $1 trillion globally every year.
India faces a daunting treatment gap for mental health conditions, ranging from 70% to 90% for various disorders. As of 2023, the country has only 0.9 psychiatrists and psychologists per 100,000 people. However, recent government initiatives aim to bridge this gap. The National Tele Mental Health Programme, launched by the government, has already handled over 1.45 million calls through its Tele MANAS service as of 2024, offering mental health support to millions nationwide.
With digital advancements and increased awareness, the mental health market in India is entering a transformative period, where both corporate and educational sectors are taking strides to prioritize mental well-being. The shift towards scalable, accessible digital solutions could prove pivotal in closing the treatment gap and improving mental health outcomes for millions across the country.
