The U.S. behavioral mental health market is experiencing a rapid and significant growth trajectory. By 2032, it's projected to reach a substantial $136.6 billion. While this growth highlights the increasing demand for mental health services, it also brings to light several challenges that need to be addressed. Despite the alarming statistic that approximately 59 million adults in the U.S. experience mental health issues each year, only around 31 million of them receive the necessary treatment. This gap in care can be attributed to a variety of factors, many of which are rooted in systemic issues within the mental health industry.
The Struggles of Treatment Adherence
One of the primary obstacles in improving mental health care access and effectiveness is the high rate of patient dropout from treatment. According to various studies, three key reasons contribute to why patients often stop treatment prematurely.
- Doubt in Treatment Effectiveness and Side Effects
The first reason involves patients who doubt the effectiveness of their treatment or believe that the side effects outweigh any potential benefits. Mental health treatments, especially those involving medication or intensive therapy, can sometimes lead to side effects that make patients question whether the treatment is worth continuing. For some, the hope for improvement becomes overshadowed by the challenges of managing side effects, leading them to discontinue care.
- Time, Cost, and Emotional Burden
Another significant barrier is the time, emotional toll, and financial burden associated with traditional mental health therapy. In-person sessions, while invaluable for many, can be time-consuming and costly. In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for regular therapy appointments can feel overwhelming, especially for individuals balancing work, family, and other life responsibilities. Moreover, the emotional labor involved in therapy can be draining, leaving some patients feeling burnt out before they can see lasting benefits.
Additionally, despite progress in mental health awareness, a stigma still surrounds therapy, making it difficult for some individuals to feel comfortable seeking help. The combination of these factors can make patients reluctant to continue treatment or even pursue therapy in the first place.
- Lack of Trust Between Patient and Therapist
Finally, a lack of trust in the therapist-patient relationship is another crucial factor contributing to patient dropout rates. Building rapport with a therapist is essential to the healing process. However, if the connection is not established early or feels ineffective, patients may disengage and stop attending sessions. This breakdown in trust can have detrimental effects on the success of treatment, leading to a lack of progress and further discouraging the patient from continuing their therapy journey.
A Technological Solution
In light of these challenges, companies like LG Electronics, a global leader in innovative solutions, through its LG NOVA team are actively exploring ways to use technology to improve the mental health care experience. One promising innovation involves the use of a therapist-guided cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) platform to engage deeper with patients throughout their therapy journey.
A cognitive behavior therapy platform may help support patients better by providing:
- Real-Time Feedback and Motivation: A digital CBT platform provides patients with real-time feedback on their progress. This feature helps patients stay motivated and engaged in the therapeutic process, as they can visually track improvements and receive instant validation for their efforts. This is especially important in a mental health context, where small victories can be crucial to sustaining long-term treatment adherence.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Data collected through digital platforms allows therapists to track patient progress more efficiently. By analyzing this data, therapists can adjust treatment plans in real-time, making interventions more personalized and dynamic. This ensures that treatment remains relevant and effective, increasing the chances of success for each individual.
- Accessibility and Convenience: One of the most significant advantages of a digital platform is its ability to offer 24/7 support. With online resources, reminders, and check-ins, patients can receive the help they need at any time, without the need for scheduled appointments. This can help address the challenges of therapy being too time-consuming or emotionally demanding by offering more flexible and convenient options.
- Reducing Stigma: Virtual therapy options eliminate the need for in-person visits, which can be a barrier for many due to the social stigma associated with seeking mental health care. Online platforms provide a private, discreet way for patients to receive support, helping to reduce the stigma and making therapy more approachable for those who might otherwise avoid it.
- Improved Communication and Trust: Digital platforms also foster better communication between patients and therapists. With the ability to message, schedule, and check in between sessions, patients can feel more connected to their therapists and supported throughout their treatment. This continuous interaction strengthens the therapeutic relationship and builds trust, which is essential for successful outcomes.
Enhancing the Experience with AI
Technology advancements in healthcare are expanding, and the addition of artificial intelligence may further improve patient retention and streamline access to care, addressing the challenges associated with mental health treatment more effectively.
With AI, therapists can gain even deeper insights into patient behavior, preferences, and progress. AI can help predict potential dropout risks, identify patterns in patient engagement, and suggest personalized interventions that may improve outcomes. This technology-driven approach ensures that mental health care is not only more efficient but also tailored to the unique needs of each patient.
The use of AI also helps patients by offering them more customized guidance, real-time adjustments to their therapy plans, and an overall more responsive treatment experience. With these enhancements, the patient experience becomes more seamless and dynamic, leading to higher satisfaction and improved health outcomes.
A Better Future for Mental Health Treatment
As the mental health care landscape continues to evolve, it's clear that embracing technology based innovative solutions and AI-driven enhancements will be key to overcoming the challenges faced by both patients and providers. With these advancements, we can build a future where mental health care is more accessible, effective, and tailored to individual needs, ensuring that more individuals can get the treatment they deserve without the barriers that have traditionally plagued the system.
The potential for a better future in mental health care is real, and with the right technological tools and a focus on patient-centric care, we can improve not only the treatment outcomes but also the overall experience for those seeking help.
Interested in learning more about advancements LG is making in healthcare through LG NOVA? Or interest in partnering with LG NOVA to help solve challenges in healthcare? Let's connect.
Read more about LG NOVA's focus on HealthTech in its Mission for the Future Program here.
Or connect with us here.
Source: View the session at InnoFest 2025 on our Mission Hub here.
