Depression

ADHD (attention difficulties)

Chronic stress

Trauma and PTSD

Postpartum challenges

Mental health professionals often emphasize the importance of early intervention, yet many individuals face significant delays before accessing therapy. Understanding the extent of these delays and their implications is crucial for both patients and healthcare systems.

A study found that the mean wait time for mental health services across various providers was approximately 94.1 days, with a standard deviation of 69.65 days. Notably, 85.2% of respondents felt these wait times were too long, highlighting widespread concern over access delays.

In the United States, median wait times for psychiatric appointments were reported as 67 days for in-person visits and 43 days for telepsychiatry, showing that virtual options can slightly reduce the waiting period.

The National Council for Mental Wellbeing reported an average wait time of about six weeks for behavioral health services. However, specialized care often requires longer waiting periods, reflecting the challenges in accessing certain types of mental health support.

Wait times can also vary depending on the type of mental health condition. Individuals seeking therapy for depression or anxiety may experience shorter waits compared to those requiring specialized care for conditions such as PTSD, bipolar disorder, or eating disorders. Specialized treatments often have longer waiting periods due to fewer trained providers and higher demand.

The issue of delayed mental health care is not confined to a single region:

United Kingdom: Data from NHS services indicated that individuals are eight times more likely to wait over 18 months for mental health treatment compared to physical health treatment.

Australia: A survey by Beyond Blue found that nearly 50% of individuals wait until they are very distressed before seeking mental health support, citing reasons such as cost, waitlists, lack of mental health knowledge, and shame.

Bangladesh: A study indicated that the average delay in seeking mental health care was 10.5 months, with only 16% of patients seeking care directly from mental health professionals.

Several factors contribute to the prolonged wait times for mental health services:

Workforce Shortages: Many mental health professionals have full schedules and maintain waitlists, which can make it difficult for new patients to access care quickly. This shortage often leads to longer waits, delayed treatment, and increased stress for individuals seeking support. The demand for mental health services frequently exceeds the available workforce, highlighting a systemic challenge in ensuring timely access to care.

Limited Availability: Access to psychiatrists and other mental health specialists can be extremely limited. Many providers have full schedules, which makes it challenging for new patients to secure timely appointments. This scarcity contributes to delays in care, meaning that individuals may have to wait weeks or months before beginning therapy, potentially allowing conditions to worsen during the waiting period.

Geographic Disparities: People living in rural or underserved areas often face additional barriers to mental health care. Fewer providers, longer travel distances, and limited local resources mean that access to therapy can be significantly delayed compared to urban settings. These disparities highlight the importance of expanding services and alternative options, such as teletherapy, to reach communities with limited in-person care.

Individual Factors: Personal circumstances can also contribute to delays in seeking therapy. Busy work schedules, caregiving responsibilities, financial constraints, or uncertainty about where to find appropriate care can prevent individuals from accessing support promptly. Recognizing these barriers is essential for planning and taking proactive steps toward mental health care. reduced availability of care.

The consequences of waiting for therapy can be profound:

Deterioration of Mental Health: A survey revealed that 80% of individuals experienced a deterioration in their mental health while waiting for support.

Increased Risk of Crisis: Extended wait times can lead to individuals reaching a crisis point, necessitating emergency interventions.

Economic Consequences: Delays in treatment can result in job loss and increased disability claims. A study found that a one-month delay in treatment could lead to a 2% increase in job loss among patients.

1. Enhance Geographic Accessibility: Governments and organizations should prioritize mental health service expansion in rural and underserved regions, ensuring equitable access.

2. Explore Teletherapy Options: Virtual therapy can significantly reduce wait times and make professional support more accessible. Services like 

offer online therapy sessions, connecting individuals with licensed mental health professionals quickly and conveniently. Teletherapy platforms can be a valuable option for those facing long delays, geographic barriers, or scheduling challenges, providing timely support while waiting for traditional appointments.

3. Seek Peer or Community Support: Local support groups, mental health forums, or community centers can provide guidance and relief while waiting.

4. Use Reputable Online Resources: Other trusted websites, apart from Tranqbay, such as the APA, Mind, or NHS, provide self-help strategies, coping techniques, and educational materials. These resources help individuals understand mental health, learn about conditions, and develop practical skills while waiting for professional care.

5. Prioritize Early Action: Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. 

 as soon as possible, even if it’s a preliminary consultation.

6. Maintain Daily Mental Health Practices: Exercise, journaling, mindfulness, and structured routines can help manage stress while waiting for professional help.

The data reveals a critical issue in mental health care, which is significant delays in accessing therapy. These delays are influenced by factors such as workforce shortages, limited availability, and geographic disparities. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting individuals' mental health, economic stability, and overall well-being.

Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts to increase the availability of mental health professionals, streamline referral processes, and ensure equitable access to care across different regions. Only through such measures can we hope to reduce wait times and improve mental health outcomes for all individuals.

Subotic-Kerry, M., et al. (2025). While they wait: a cross-sectional survey on wait times for mental health services. BMJ Open, 15(3), e087342. 

https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/15/3/e087342

Wang, P. S., et al. (2004). Delays in initial treatment contact after first onset of a mental disorder. Archives of General Psychiatry, 61(6), 618-627. 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1361014/

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2024). State of the Behavioral Health Workforce Report 2024. 

https://bhw.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/bureau-health-workforce/state-of-the-behavioral-health-workforce-report-2024.pdf

Rethink Mental Illness. (2025). New analysis of NHS data on mental health waiting times. 

https://www.rethink.org/news-and-stories/media-centre/2025/02/new-analysis-of-nhs-data-on-mental-health-waiting-times

Costantini, S. (2024). How do mental health treatment delays impact long-term engagement and outcomes? 

https://www.aeaweb.org/conference/2025/program/paper/k7f8Y94z

Data on therapy delays and mental health wait times shows how long people wait, the factors behind delays, and recommendations for patients and systems.

Therapy Delays: How Long Before People Seek Help?

 has joined NVIDIA Inception, a program that supports startups transforming industries through advanced technologies.

Building a Culturally Aware Mental Health Platform

, we’re building a culturally aware mental health platform designed to improve access to therapy and emotional support—starting in some of the world’s most underserved regions. With over 3,800 users and 1,000+ therapy sessions completed since launch, our goal is to combine expert human care with intelligent tools to improve outcomes and scale impact. We’re also developing an AI companion to detect early signs of mental health issues and support users between sessions.

How NVIDIA Inception Accelerates Our AI Development

Joining NVIDIA Inception will help us accelerate the development of our AI models by providing access to cutting-edge tools like NVIDIA GPUs, TensorRT, and DeepStream. These technologies will power our AI-driven features such as real-time emotion detection, intelligent therapist matching, and predictive mental health support. Through the program, we’ll also benefit from go-to-market support, training, and collaboration with world-class experts and fellow AI-first startups.

“Mental health care needs to be reimagined for local contexts, and we believe AI plays a powerful role in that. Being part of NVIDIA Inception gives us the tools and network to build faster and smarter.” — Oluwaseun Thani, Co-founder of TranqBay Health

NVIDIA Inception helps startups during critical stages of product development, prototyping, and deployment. Members receive a custom set of ongoing benefits, including Deep Learning Institute credits, preferred pricing on NVIDIA hardware and software, and technical assistance—equipping them with the essential tools to grow and scale.

We’re proud to join this global community of innovators and excited to harness cutting-edge technology to transform mental health care. Together with NVIDIA and our partners, we look forward to creating meaningful impact and a healthier future for all.

TranqBay Health joins NVIDIA Inception to scale its AI-driven mental health platform with access to cutting-edge tools, training, and expert support

TranqBay Health Joins NVIDIA Inception

Depression isn’t just a personal battle, but a global epidemic. The World Health Organization estimates that over 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression. Yet, despite its scale, it often goes unspoken, untreated, and deeply misunderstood.

We live in a world where mental health conversations are slowly gaining traction, but stigma, ignorance, and systemic gaps still leave millions in the shadows. In this article, we’re not just talking about depression — we’re counting it. Because sometimes, the numbers speak louder than words.

This isn’t just about data. It’s about what the data reveals, who it affects, and what it means for how we treat, support, and understand those living with depression.

According to the World Health Organization (2023), more than 280 million people across the world are living with depression.

Depression affects people of all ages, but the 18–25 age group reports the highest levels of major depressive episodes.

Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression — but many men suffer in silence due to stigma and cultural expectations.

Depression does not discriminate by region. High-income and low-income countries alike report high rates of the condition, though access to care varies dramatically.

Depression is one of the leading causes of suicide, which claims around 700,000 lives globally each year.

It’s the fourth leading cause of death among people aged 15–29.

In many suicide cases, underlying depression is either undiagnosed or untreated.

The WHO reports that suicide prevention efforts are still lacking in nearly 40% of countries, especially where mental health is not prioritized.

In low- and middle-income countries, over 75% of people with depression receive no treatment at all.

Even in high-income nations, access isn’t always easy: waiting lists, high costs, and lack of professionals create significant barriers.

Stigma remains a major roadblock — many avoid seeking help for fear of being labeled “weak,” “dramatic,” or “lazy.”

In some cultures, depression is still not recognized as a real illness, and individuals are told to "pray harder," "toughen up," or "snap out of it."

Sometimes, it’s not that people don’t want help. It’s that too often, help is either unavailable or unacceptable to society.

The Economic and Social Costs of Depression

Beyond the emotional toll, depression causes massive economic strain.

Each year, depression and anxiety cost the global economy an estimated $1 trillion in lost productivity (WHO).

Absenteeism, presenteeism (being at work but mentally checked out), and burnout are all tied to untreated mental health struggles.

Depression also breaks down family structures, strains friendships, and affects parenting and caregiving roles.

It is obvious that depression is not only a personal issue. It’s a social and economic one, silently shaping the way we live, work, and relate.

It’s not all grim. Despite the sobering numbers, there’s also movement — and momentum.

Mental health awareness campaigns are growing globally.

More people, including public figures and celebrities, are opening up about their struggles, helping to normalize the conversation.

Online therapy, mobile apps, mental health hotlines, and community-based support systems are making help more accessible than ever.

Governments and organizations are beginning to recognize the need for mental health integration in public health policies.

Share this article because someone out there may need it.

Talk about depression, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Support mental health initiatives in your community.

These numbers are more than just data points, they represent real people. People who smile in public and cry in private. People who show up for others while silently falling apart. People who need us to pay attention.

If we can understand the numbers, we can start changing them.

We can advocate, check in on loved ones, fund support systems and challenge the stigma, one conversation at a time.

World Health Organization (2023). Depression – Key Facts. Retrieved from 

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression

World Health Organization (2022). Mental Health and COVID-19: Early evidence of the pandemic’s impact. Retrieved from 

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240055409

National Institute of Mental Health (2023). Major Depression. Retrieved from 

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression

Mental Health Foundation (2022). Depression: The Facts. Retrieved from 

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/depression

Our World in Data (2023). Mental Health. Retrieved from 

This article presents key facts and global statistics on depression, its impact on individuals and society, and the growing urgency for mental health awareness.

Depression By The Numbers: What the Stats Really Say

Mental health is no longer just a conversation for individuals or mental health professionals; it's being actively discussed and promoted by global organizations, such as the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), World Health Organization (WHO). 

Founded in 1948, the World Health Organization WHO is a United Nations agency dedicated to advancing health and ensuring that everyone, everywhere, can attain the highest level of health.

WHO has been at the forefront of advocating for stronger mental health care systems, emphasizing the integration of mental health services into primary health care. This aligns closely with SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring good health and well-being for all.

According to WHO, mental health is integral to our ability to think, feel, and interact with others. It's not just the absence of mental disorders but a state of overall well-being. As WHO rightly states, “

There is no health without mental health.”

On March 25, 2025, WHO launched a new guideline aimed at strengthening mental health policies worldwide. 

Globally, mental health services have been severely underfunded, with many individuals suffering from severe mental health conditions without access to adequate care. This lack of resources results in low-quality care for some and a lack of help for others.

The new guidance aims to ensure quality care and treatment are accessible to everyone, promoting the mental health of all people, regardless of their background or circumstances.

WHO is placing serious emphasis on making mental health care more accessible, especially in low- and middle-income countries where services are often limited or inadequate. There’s also a strong focus on promoting mental well-being and preventing mental health disorders early on, through strategies that reduce the overall global burden. 

Beyond the health sector, WHO is calling on all sectors  - education, employment, and social services  to integrate mental health into their policies. It’s a whole-society approach. 

There's also a renewed commitment to protecting the rights of people with mental health conditions, encouraging a shift from institutional care to more community-focused, person-centered support. 

WHO’s 2025 guideline lays out practical steps that countries can take to strengthen their mental health systems, making sure that mental health care is accessible to everyone, no matter where they live or what their situation is. 

With millions of people around the globe struggling with mental health issues and far too many not getting the help they need, this new guidance is timely and essential. 

1. Enhancing Access to Mental Health Services: 

A major emphasis of the 2025 guideline is on making mental health services more accessible, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). These nations often struggle with limited mental health care options, and WHO highlights the necessity of integrating mental health care into primary health systems. 

This approach will help make mental health services more available at the community level, allowing individuals to receive support early on when it’s most crucial.

Another significant aspect of the guideline is the urgent call for increased funding for mental health care. WHO points out that mental health services are frequently underfunded, with many countries allocating less than 2% of their health budgets to this area. 

The 2025 guideline encourages governments to invest more in mental health care, ensuring that quality services are accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford it.

WHO is advocating for a more comprehensive approach by urging all sector to incorporate mental health strategies into their policies. Mental health isn’t solely a health concern; it’s a societal one. 

By ensuring that mental health is prioritized in all aspects of life, we can foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.

4. Human Rights and Community-Based Care: 

A huge shift in the 2025 guideline is the emphasis on community-based care instead of institutional care. WHO advocates for treating people with mental health conditions with the dignity they deserve and making sure they receive care in their communities rather than in large, impersonal institutions. 

This move towards person-centered care is about giving individuals the support they need in familiar, supportive environments.

Finally, WHO’s guideline stresses the need to address the social and structural factors that contribute to poor mental health, like poverty, unemployment, and social isolation. 

By tackling these broader issues, we can improve mental well-being on a larger scale and prevent mental health challenges before they become more serious.

WHO’s 2025 guideline is more than just a call to action; it’s a plan for a global shift in how we treat mental health. It is about breaking down barriers, ensuring that mental health services are available to everyone, and creating a world where mental well-being is supported in every part of society.

By focusing on accessibility, funding, and integration, WHO is aiming to create a world where mental health care is just as important and accessible as any other aspect of health care. 

With mental health challenges on the rise around the world, the 2025 WHO guideline is an essential roadmap for change. 

Let’s come together to promote mental well-being in every aspect of our society. 

Support mental health initiatives, help raise awareness, and encourage your community to make mental health a key part of overall wellness. 

Share this article and help spread the message about how crucial mental health care is for everyone.

WHO’s 2025 guideline focuses on improving mental health care globally through better access, funding, integration, and community-based support for all.

What WHO Says About Mental Health

One-on-one therapy sessions between a client and a therapist to address personal concerns, emotions, and behaviors.

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Counseling sessions that involve multiple family members to address relationship dynamics, conflicts, and family-related issues.

Family Therapy

Therapeutic sessions conducted with a small group of individuals who share similar issues or goals, providing support and shared experiences.

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Child and Adolescent Therapy

Body image concerns involve persistent negative thoughts and feelings about your appearance that impact self-esteem and daily life. Our therapists help clients develop a healthier relationship with their bodies, challenge unrealistic ideals, and build confidence beyond physical appearance.

Work with therapists to build self-acceptance and improve your relationship with your body.

Embrace Positive Body Image

Body image concerns

Social anxiety and shyness can make everyday interactions feel overwhelming and limit participation in important life activities. Our therapists help clients gradually build confidence in social situations, challenge negative thoughts about judgment, and develop authentic connection skills.

Work with therapists to reduce fear in social situations and improve your interpersonal comfort.

Build Social Confidence

Social anxiety and shyness

Phobias and fears are intense, irrational anxieties about specific objects, activities, or situations that interfere with daily functioning. Our therapists use evidence-based approaches including exposure therapy to help clients gradually reduce fear responses and reclaim freedom in their lives.

Confront fears gently and regain control of your life through guided therapy.

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Phobias and fears

Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors involve distressing, intrusive thoughts and repetitive actions performed to reduce anxiety. Our specialized therapists provide evidence-based treatment to help manage OCD symptoms, reduce ritual behaviors, and develop healthier responses to uncertainty.

Break free from distressing patterns with structured and supportive care.

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Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors

Self-Esteem issues involve persistent negative beliefs about one's worth, abilities, or lovability. Our therapists help clients identify the roots of low self-esteem, challenge self-critical thoughts, develop self-compassion, recognize personal strengths, and build a stronger, more positive sense of self.

Get professional help with issues related to self-esteem in a safe and supportive space.

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