Digital Innovation in Mental Health: From Innovation Supply to System Infrastructure

The two workshops explored how to advance digital innovation in mental health, concluding that the main barrier is not a lack of technology but insufficient system infrastructure. While many effective digital tools already exist, they struggle to scale due to unclear reimbursement pathways, fragmented procurement, limited workforce readiness, and weak governance. International examples show that success depends on clear national strategies, including defined routes from pilot stages to routine care, supported by funding and policy alignment.

A key theme was that digital tools must be implemented as services, not just products. This requires integration into clinical workflows, interoperability across systems, and adaptation to local contexts. Clinician engagement and change management are essential, as adoption depends on training, leadership, and recognition of the time needed to use these tools effectively.

The workshops also emphasised embedding lived experience at every stage of innovation, ensuring tools meet real patient needs. Misalignment between stakeholders—policymakers,…