Summer Series 2020

Mental Health Innovations for the 21st Century

The United States was deeply entrenched in a mental health crisis even before confronting the dual realities of COVID-19 and global anti-racism protests. Early indications telegraph that this crisis has been further exacerbated during the first half of 2020. Anti-anxiety prescriptions increased by 34 percent in March, alcohol sales have increased by almost 25 percent, and crisis help lines have seen an increase in calls regarding domestic violence, sexual abuse, substance abuse and grief. While many organizations in the field are rapidly adapting to address mental health in the context of these new and evolving pressures, private companies are uniquely positioned to make key investments to help individuals experiencing mental illness. This discussion will spotlight promising mental health treatments and innovations, and examine what the next wave of 21st century mental illness treatments could look like.