Keeping the ethics and legalities of medical care in mind — and the parameters involved in dispensing health care online — the psychiatrist, cognitive therapist and medical entrepreneur launched her healthcare venture and website, MINDFRAMES, in 2004. This was followed some years later by InnerHour, the digital self-help platform conceptualised jointly by Batra and Dr Amit Malik to fill the gaps in mental health support, and bring information, accessibility and acceptance.
But surprisingly, those suffering from mental illness continue to feel that they will be judged. So, I believe that although the public stigmatisation of mental illness has decreased, self-stigma has persisted. But, in general, people do believe that seeking professional help is of advantage; they’re more open to taking medication as well as undergoing structured therapy.
Hence over-identification with symptoms can make young users over-diagnose their problems, which itself can become a cause of anxiety. I think it’s very important that the platforms for mental-health are rooted in a strong foundation of expertise, experience and qualified mental wellness professionals. But overall, I think democratisation and awareness are significant, positive undertakings.