Researchers called for clear regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical standards, content quality and user privacy in mental health apps. Photo used for representation purposes only | Photo credit: MURALI KUMAR K
A comprehensive assessment conducted by NIMHANS researchers found that while mental health smartphone apps available to Indian users show promise in accessibility and design, some lack privacy protection, professional oversight and content quality.
The studiespublished recently in JMIR mHealth and uHealth, is among the earliest systematic reviews of mental health apps available in India. The study, conducted under the Center for Advanced Research in Digital Interventions for Mental Health at NIMHANS, with funding from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), examined more than 5,800 apps using 15 search terms related to mental health, such as depression, anxiety and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Of these, 350 apps – including completely free apps, those offering free trials and free parts of paid apps – were shortlisted for detailed evaluation using an internationally recognized rating tool and other pre-defined parameters.
The apps offered a variety of features, including symptom assessment, educational content, progress tracking, and therapeutic strategies. Multifunctional applications – those that combine two or more functions – formed the largest group, indicating a growing preference for holistic support tools. Cognitive behavioral therapy was the most common therapeutic approach, appearing in approximately 43% of applications.
Concerns about the protection of personal data
“While most apps scored well in terms of design and ease of use, the quality of information varied greatly,” said Seema Mehrotra, a professor of clinical psychology at NIMHANS and lead author of the study.
Only about one-sixth of the reviewed apps were developed in Asia, and only 10% came from academic institutions, government bodies, or non-profit organizations. Although 86% of apps had privacy policies, several raised concerns: 15% did not mention how user data might be shared with third parties; 40% did not specify a data retention period and almost half lacked the option for users to delete their data. Given the sensitive nature of mental health information, such omissions are troubling, noted Dr. Mehrotra.
Content gaps
The study also found significant content gaps. Fewer than one in three apps attempted to address mental health myths or included basic crisis support. While 65% of apps did not specify whether mental health professionals were involved in their development, 40% included disclaimers clarifying that they are not a substitute for professional help. Only 23% actively encouraged users to seek professional support when needed. This becomes a critical issue in contexts where mental health literacy and help-seeking rates may be low, the doctor said.
“These gaps are particularly risky in unguided self-help applications, where users may not recognize when professional intervention is needed,” said Dr. Mehrotra and added that an extension of the review is currently underway.
The need for a regulatory framework
Researchers called for clear regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical standards, content quality and user privacy in mental health apps. They also highlighted the need for greater involvement of mental health professionals in the development of socio-culturally informed, evidence-based digital tools and to support public-private partnerships to ensure their effective deployment and sustainability.
While investment in research to determine the effectiveness of digital mental health interventions in India remains essential, increasing mental health digital literacy is equally important, the study noted.
“Empowering users to make informed decisions can help them understand the scope and limitations of these tools and use them safely and correctly, rather than seeing them as a substitute for professional help,” added Dr. Mehrotra.
Published – 31 Oct 2025 21:23 IST
