• The strategic combination merges MedBright’s AI-enabled clinical solution capabilities with Numinus’ deep data and vast experience with drug-assisted mental health treatment to improve clinical operations and capitalize on reimbursable offerings
• Leaders from MedBright AI team with extensive experience in US healthcare clinic operations and ownership plan to join the management team and Board upon the completion of the transaction
• As result of the combination, the balance sheet strengthens with cash and liquid securities in excess of $5M; The operational team continues to reduce overhead and is embarking on a revenue improvement plan for the Utah clinics.
• The proposed transaction comes as Numinus reorganizes its operations with a near-term strategic plan towards generating positive EBITDA

MedBright AI Investments Inc. (the “Company” or “MedBright AI”) (CSE:MBAI, OTCQB:MBAIF, FSE:Y30) announces execution of a letter of intent (the “LOI”) to be acquired by Numinus Wellness Inc. (“Numinus” ) (TSX: NUMI, OTCQX: NUMIF), a mental healthcare company advancing traditional and innovative behavioral health treatments including safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies, by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the “Proposed Transaction”).

MedBright AI deploys artificial intelligence and machine learning (“AI”) to empower medical professionals to deliver increased access to healthcare, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes. With the Proposed Transaction, Numinus plans to leverage its significant expertise in traditional therapy, clinic management, patient care, insurance reimbursement, and psychedelic-assisted therapy into a unique AI-enabled offering (the “AI Offering”) available to the growing number of U.S. mental health care providers. Specifically, the AI Offering will leverage Numinus’ industry-leading experience and data as it relates to providing reimbursed care for drug-assisted therapy, to allow therapists to address a key challenge in building out the infrastructure necessary to generate re-imbursed revenue.

To signify its new strategic direction and focus, Numinus intends to rebrand as Numinus Intelligence upon closing, a name that reflects the commitment to leveraging AI and data science to expand mental health service and solutions across the US. The Numinus ticker symbol on the Toronto Stock Exchange will remain NUMI.

In preparation for the transaction, a transition team has been formed to reduce costs, preserve cash and work to increase revenues through the period before the Proposed Transaction is complete.

Details of the Proposed Transaction

Pursuant to the terms of the LOI, as consideration for the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of MedBright AI (“MedBright AI Shares”), Numinus will issue 1.86 common shares of Numinus (“Numinus Shares”) for each MedBright AI Share such that it is anticipated that Numinus will issue an aggregate of approximately 204,729,372 Numinus Shares, which will represent ownership of approximately 39% of the pro forma company on an undiluted basis, based on the current capitalization of Numinus and MedBright AI.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions precedent, including, among other things, the negotiation and execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI. The LOI is binding with respect to exclusivity and non-binding in all other aspects and serves as an important step in advance of a definitive arrangement agreement.

“This acquisition is the culmination of our efforts over the past year to align Numinus with the revenue growth opportunities we see in the US mental health care sector with the delivery of high-quality care to a large population of patients in need of drug-assisted therapy and mental health services,” said Payton Nyquvest, CEO of Numinus. “This is also a testament to the entire Numinus team who, over the past four years, has built an optimized clinic network that delivers great patient care at high levels of efficiency. We believe that harnessing our expertise and intellectual property to complement MedBright’s AI technology will amplify our ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and, importantly, profitability.”

“I am pleased with the prospect of joining the Numinus Intelligence board and advancing this crucial strategic transaction,” added Dr. Jaime Gerber, Chairman of the Board of MedBright AI and Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at Yale School of Medicine. “MedBright is dedicated to empowering healthcare providers with AI, and we believe this mission is vital for addressing the global mental health crisis. We look forward to generating value that will benefit both MedBright and Numinus shareholders.”

“I believe this merger will accelerate the mission of and opportunity for both companies,” stated Mr. Michael Dalsin. “I look forward to having an increasingly substantial role in Numinus Intelligence upon completion of the transaction. I see a pathway to revenue growth and profitability with this merger and I am enthusiastic about its potential.”

Mr. Dalsin is an advisor and the largest shareholder of MedBright AI, a guest lecturer at Yale School of Medicine, and former Chairman of Patient Home Monitoring (“PHM”) (now Quipt and VieMed on the Nasdaq) and Convalo Health (a mental health company formerly listed on the TSXV). Mr. Dalsin has extensive experience in right-sizing clinic operations to bring them to profitability, and has demonstrated this on the public level with both Convalo Health and PHM. Mr. Dalsin has been a banker and buy-out fund manager specializing in US clinical operations.

Eight Capital is acting as Numinus’ financial advisor in connection with the Proposed Transaction.

Change in Management

In preparation for the transaction, Dr. Jaime Gerber will become transition CEO of MedBright AI and Trevor Vieweg will assume a new role as a technology consultant.

MedBright AI Investments Inc.
Dr. Jaime Gerber, Chief Executive Officer
Email: investors@medbright.ai
Phone: (604) 602-0001
www.medbright.ai

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including without limitation, Numinus’ plans with respect to the near-term generation of positive EBITDA; Numnius’ expectation that leveraging its expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy, clinic management, patient care, and insurance reimbursement will create a unique AI-enabled offering; Numinus’ intentions regarding rebranding as “Numinus Intelligence”; the expectation that leveraging AI and data science will expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; the expectation that Numinus’ transition team will be able to reduce costs, preserve cash and increase revenues; the expectation that the parties will be able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction, including execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI; the belief that Numnius’ expertise and intellectual property will complement MedBright’s AI technology and amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and profitability; the belief that the merger will generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; the belief that the merger will accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and the belief that the merger will create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability, are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “intends” or “anticipates”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “should” or “would” or occur.

Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including that the combined entity can generate near-term positive EBITDA; that leveraging Numinus’ expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy, clinic management, patient care, and insurance reimbursement will create a unique AI-enabled offering; that the combined entity will successfully rebrand as “Numinus Intelligence”; that leveraging AI and data science will expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; that Numinus’ transition team will be able to reduce costs, preserve cash and increase revenues; that the parties will be able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction, including execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI; that Numinus’ expertise and intellectual property will complement MedBright’s AI technology and that this will amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and profitability; that the merger will generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; that the merger will accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and that the merger will create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Important risks that may cause actual results to vary, include, without limitation, the risk that the combined entity will be unable to generate near-term positive EBITDA; that the combined entity will be unable to create a unique AI-enabled offering; that the combined entity will not be able to succesfully rebrand as “Numinus Intelligence”; that leveraging AI and data science will not expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; that Numinus’ transition team will be unable able to reduce costs, preserve cash or increase revenues; that the parties will be unable able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction; that Numnius’ expertise and intellectual property will not complement MedBright’s AI technology or that this will not amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care an will not drive revenue growth or profitability; that the merger will be unable to generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; that the merger will be unable to accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and that the merger will be unable to create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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Firefly Neuroscience, Inc. (“Firefly” or the “Company”), a pioneering artificial intelligence (“AI”) driven company developing innovative neuroscientific solutions to improve outcomes for patients with mental illnesses and neurological disorders, today announced the expansion of its leadership team with the appointment of Samer Kaba, M.D. as its Chief Medical Officer, as it nears the closing of its planned merger with WaveDancer, Inc. (NASDAQ: WAVD).

“We are delighted to welcome Samer to our executive management team,” said Jon Olsen, Chief Executive Officer of Firefly. “His proven track record in the neuroscience drug development space will be instrumental in advancing our mission to promote brain health through our BNA platform. His leadership and strategic insights will be invaluable as we continue to push forward to provide patients with better outcomes for brain health.”

Prior to joining Firefly, Dr. Kaba held multiple leadership positions in the pharmaceutical industry and served as Chief Medical Officer of various biotechnology companies, where he led the development of multiple pharmaceutical products. In addition to his large expertise in drug development, medical affairs, and regulatory sciences, Dr. Kaba has over 20 years of experience in managing patients with neurological conditions. Dr. Kaba is a board-certified neurologist with additional training in Neuro-immunology (Multiple Sclerosis) at the State University of New York at Buffalo, and in Neuro-oncology at the University of Texas M.D.

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• The strategic combination merges MedBright’s AI-enabled clinical solution capabilities with Numinus’ deep data and vast experience with drug-assisted mental health treatment to improve clinical operations and capitalize on reimbursable offerings
• Leaders from MedBright AI team with extensive experience in U.S. healthcare clinic operations and ownership plan to join the management team and Board upon the completion of the transaction
• As a result of the combination, the balance sheet strengthens with cash and liquid securities in excess of $5 million. The operational team continues to reduce overhead and is embarking on a revenue improvement plan for the Utah clinics.
• The proposed transaction comes as Numinus reorganizes its operations with a near-term strategic plan towards generating positive EBITDA

Numinus Wellness Inc. (“Numinus” or the “Company“) (TSX: NUMI) (OTCQX: NUMIF) (FSE: LR23), a mental healthcare company advancing traditional and innovative behavioral health treatments including safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies, announces execution of a letter of intent (the “LOI“) to acquire MedBright AI Investments Inc. (“MedBright AI“) (CSE: MBAI) by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the “Proposed Transaction“).

MedBright AI deploys artificial intelligence and machine learning (“AI“) to empower medical professionals to deliver increased access to healthcare, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes. With the Proposed Transaction, Numinus plans to leverage its significant expertise in traditional therapy, clinic management, patient care, insurance reimbursement, and psychedelic-assisted therapy into a unique AI-enabled offering (the “AI Offering“) available to the growing number of U.S. mental health care providers. Specifically, the AI Offering will leverage Numinus’ industry-leading experience and data as it relates to providing reimbursed care for drug-assisted therapy to allow therapists to address a key challenge in building out the infrastructure necessary to generate reimbursed revenue.

To signify its new strategic direction and focus, the Company intends to rebrand as Numinus Intelligence upon closing, a name that reflects the commitment to leveraging AI and data science to expand mental health services and solutions across the U.S. The Company’s ticker symbol of the Toronto Stock Exchange will remain NUMI.

In preparation for the transaction, a transition team has been formed to reduce costs, preserve cash and work to increase revenues through the period before the Proposed Transaction is complete.Details of the Proposed Transaction

Pursuant to the terms of the LOI, as consideration for the acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding common shares in the capital of MedBright AI (“MedBright AI Shares“), Numinus will issue 1.86 common shares of Numinus (“Numinus Shares“) for each MedBright AI Share such that it is anticipated that Numinus will issue an aggregate of approximately 204,729,372 Numinus Shares, which will represent ownership of approximately 39% of the pro forma company on an undiluted basis, based on the current capitalization of Numinus and MedBright AI.

The Proposed Transaction is subject to a number of conditions precedent, including, among other things, the negotiation and execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI. The LOI is binding with respect to exclusivity and non-binding in all other aspects and serves as an important step in advance of a definitive arrangement agreement.

“This acquisition is the culmination of our efforts over the past year to align Numinus with the revenue growth opportunities we see in the U.S. mental health care sector with the delivery of high-quality care to a large population of patients in need of drug-assisted therapy and mental health services,” said Payton Nyquvest, CEO of Numinus. “This is also a testament to the entire Numinus team who, over the past four years, has built an optimized clinic network that delivers great patient care at high levels of efficiency. We believe that harnessing our expertise and intellectual property to complement MedBright’s AI technology will amplify our ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and, importantly, profitability.”

 “I am pleased with the prospect of joining the Numinus Intelligence board and advancing this crucial strategic transaction,” added Dr. Jaime Gerber, Chairman of the Board of MedBright AI and Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine at Yale School of Medicine. “MedBright is dedicated to empowering healthcare providers with AI, and we believe this mission is vital for addressing the global mental health crisis. We look forward to generating value that will benefit both MedBright and Numinus shareholders.”

“I believe this merger will accelerate the mission of and opportunity for both companies,” stated Mr. Michael Dalsin. “I look forward to having an increasingly substantial role in Numinus Intelligence upon completion of the transaction. I see a pathway to revenue growth and profitability with this merger, and I am enthusiastic about its potential.”

Mr. Dalsin is an advisor and the largest shareholder of MedBright AI, a guest lecturer at Yale School of Medicine, and former Chairman of Patient Home Monitoring (“PHM”) (now Quipt and VieMed on the Nasdaq) and Convalo Health (a mental health company formerly listed on the TSXV). Mr. Dalsin has extensive experience in right-sizing clinic operations to bring them to profitability, and has demonstrated this on the public level with both Convalo Health and PHM. Mr. Dalsin has been a banker and buy-out fund manager specializing in U.S. clinical operations.

Eight Capital is acting as Numinus’ financial advisor in connection with the Proposed Transaction.Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding future estimates, plans, objectives, timing, assumptions or expectations of future performance, including without limitation, Numinus’ plans with respect to the near-term generation of positive EBITDA; Numinus’ expectation that leveraging its expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy, clinic management, patient care, and insurance reimbursement will create a unique AI-enabled offering; Numinus’ intentions regarding rebranding as “Numinus Intelligence”; the expectation that leveraging AI and data science will expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; the expectation that Numinus’ transition team will be able to reduce costs, preserve cash and increase revenues; the expectation that the parties will be able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction, including execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI; the belief that Numinus’ expertise and intellectual property will complement MedBright’s AI technology and amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and profitability; the belief that the merger will generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; the belief that the merger will accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and the belief that the merger will create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability, are forward-looking statements and contain forward-looking information. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “intends” or “anticipates”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “should” or “would” or occur.

Forward-looking statements are based on certain material assumptions and analysis made by the Company and the opinions and estimates of management as of the date of this press release, including that the combined entity can generate near-term positive EBITDA; that leveraging Numinus’ expertise in psychedelic-assisted therapy, clinic management, patient care, and insurance reimbursement will create a unique AI-enabled offering; that the combined entity will successfully rebrand as “Numinus Intelligence”; that leveraging AI and data science will expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; that Numinus’ transition team will be able to reduce costs, preserve cash and increase revenues; that the parties will be able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction, including execution of a definitive arrangement agreement, completion of satisfactory due diligence by each party, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and the approval of the Proposed Transaction by shareholders of each of Numinus and MedBright AI; that Numinus’ expertise and intellectual property will complement MedBright’s AI technology and that this will amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care while driving revenue growth and profitability; that the merger will generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; that the merger will accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and that the merger will create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability.

These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Important risks that may cause actual results to vary, include, without limitation, the risk that the combined entity will be unable to generate near-term positive EBITDA; that the combined entity will be unable to create a unique AI-enabled offering; that the combined entity will not be able to successfully rebrand as “Numinus Intelligence”; that leveraging AI and data science will not expand mental health service and solutions across the U.S.; that Numinus’ transition team will be unable able to reduce costs, preserve cash or increase revenues; that the parties will be unable able to satisfy the conditions precedent to closing the Proposed Transaction; that Numinus’ expertise and intellectual property will not complement MedBright’s AI technology or that this will not amplify the combined entity’s ability to help those in need of care an will not drive revenue growth or profitability; that the merger will be unable to generate value for MedBright AI and Numinus shareholders; that the merger will be unable to accelerate the mission and opportunities for the combined entity; and that the merger will be unable to create a pathway for revenue growth and profitability.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

SOURCE Numinus Wellness Inc.

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Dr. Vic Strecher, CEO and Founder of Kumanu, said, “The addition of AI Coach to Purposeful marks a milestone in digital health coaching. Now organizations can provide personalized, science-based support to a broader audience, boosting sense of purpose and positive health behavior change, at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs.”

Dr. Strecher’s pioneering work in science-backed digital coaching dates back three decades. His recent work centers on the role of purpose in health and its impact in supporting sustained behavior change. This body of scientific work forms the evidence foundation for Purposeful, and the new AI Coach.

AI Coach leverages motivational interviewing, self-determination theory, and other modern behavior change techniques to deliver more empathetic and tailored support via brief daily check-ins. It integrates emotional, mental, financial, social, and physical wellbeing to deliver whole person support in one integrated experience, reducing the need for multiple point solutions.

Kumanu designed AI Coach to ensure that all user personal data remains private and secure. The feature is entirely opt-in, at the organizational and individual user levels, ensuring user comfort and control.

AI Coach represents a transformational addition to Purposeful, and to the landscape of workforce wellbeing platforms, by offering scalable and confidential support that aligns with the evolving needs and expectations of the modern workforce.

A 2023 company study found Purposeful helped 48% of at-risk users boost their sense of purpose. Over half reported improved work engagement, and 73% experienced fewer depressive symptoms. AI Coach fortifies Purposeful to help organizations foster a healthier, more future-ready workforce. 

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Today, Lenovo released the newest iteration of its Work For Humankind project, titled ‘Meet Your Digital Self’. The project highlights the role that smarter technology and AI can play in helping to advance change and support mental health professionals in addressing the global youth mental health crisis. This work aims to address the challenges young people face when living different lives in the real world versus online, as two-thirds (67%) of Gen Z feel a disconnect between their online and offline selves, fuelling feelings of loneliness and anxiety. While almost half (49%) of Gen Zs say it’s easier to express themselves online than offline, 60% wish they could have difficult conversations with family and loved ones in real life.

Sarah Kendrick, Clinical Director at Mental Health Innovations, the charity running the UK’s Shout 24/7 text support service said, “One in eight people globally grapple with a mental health condition, with Gen Z experiencing the greatest impact, where that figure rises to one in five. The type of AI innovation in Lenovo’s ‘Meet Your Digital Self’ social experiment shows promise as a way in which generations with different understandings of online personas can meet and understand each other.”

In this first-of-its-kind social experiment, Lenovo pioneered the use of AI made possible by its broad portfolio of technology, from mobile phones and PCs to infrastructure, software, services, solutions, and cloud. The combined technology brought to life the entire online personas of two Gen Z project participants as lifelike avatars capable of having unscripted, natural conversation.

The experiment facilitated impactful, heartfelt conversations between the participants, their family members, and the avatars – conversations that might not have happened otherwise, in real life. The family members either didn’t know about their Gen Z participant’s online world or didn’t understand and accept it: be it their career choices or gender identity. By asking the digital avatars questions and having real-time conversations, each family member gained invaluable insights into their Gen Z loved one’s true self as expressed in the online world and were able to better understand and reconnect in real life. The project is a pioneering proof of concept demonstrating the positive impact technology can have in advancing positive change in the youth mental health epidemic, which has been worsened by their struggle to balance two distinct online and offline identities.

The 3D avatars not only resembled each participant but were built to be able to respond to real-time conversation – adjusting their tones, movements, and facial expressions based on the discussion. To do that the avatars were trained on data that came directly from each participant’s online persona.

According to new research from Lenovo, almost half (48%) of Gen Zs say talking to a trained professional would give them the confidence to talk more openly with the people they love in the real world.

In an effort to expand mental health support and resources for people in need, Lenovo has partnered with several organizations, such as Shout, a free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service based in the UK; Crisis Text Line, a non-profit organization that provides free, 24/7 confidential text-based mental health support in both English and Spanish for anyone in the US and Puerto Rico; and Anata no Ibasho in Japan. These organizations train real people who are then supervised by mental health professional staff, offering support to millions in need.

The digital versions of the two Gen Z participants were created by weaving together data from across their social media, blog, and forum handles securely with their consent. The data was trained and tested, and the project designed and brought to life with Lenovo devices, services, software, servers, and cloud solutions. This is the first time ever that Lenovo solutions have come together to develop an avatar of this kind. Devices and solutions include Lenovo ThinkStation workstations; ThinkCentre desktop computers; Lenovo Legion, ThinkBook and Yoga laptops; Lenovo tablets; ThinkVision monitors and accessories; motorola razr smartphones; ThinkEdge SE450 Edge Server; AI Professional Services and Lenovo | Dropbox Cloud Storage.

“Technology can become the bridge that shortens distances, making powerful human-to-human connection faster and more accessible to people in moments of need,” said Dr. Shairi Turner, Chief Health Officer at Crisis Text Line. “Whether someone is in a classroom, at a family event, or lying awake at night, the power of a text conversation with another human offers solace in anonymity and compassion without judgement. It is truly brave to reach out for support.”

Crisis Text Line reports that more than 70% of its texters are under the age of 25. Its text-based service helps people of all ages but was specifically created for young people allowing for on-demand support through text message.

Anyone who sees themselves in these films, struggling to reconcile their online and offline identities and more deeply connect with their friends and family, or who simply needs advice on how to reach out to someone close to them, can reach out for support by messaging Shout (UK), Crisis Text Line (US), or Anata no Ibasho (Japan).

“We recognize the importance of achieving a healthy digital balance for our overall mental wellbeing,” commented Emily Ketchen, global vice president and CMO of Intelligent Devices Group and International Markets at Lenovo. “With huge advancements in AI and smarter technologies, now is the time to explore and pilot creative new ways to use technology like AI thoughtfully and responsibly, for the greater good. Lenovo is uniquely positioned to lead here thanks to having one of the industry’s broadest portfolios of smarter technology—from AI devices to IT solutions—that can work seamlessly together to benefit our society and the next generation. Ultimately, we hope that through our ‘Meet Your Digital Self’ social experiment we can spark meaningful conversations that contribute to the mental wellbeing of individuals and communities worldwide.”

Chinatsu Hoashi, Gen Z participant from Japan comments: “Taking part in the ‘Meet Your Digital Self’ social experiment has definitely helped strengthen relationships with my family. By using technology and AI, I was able to open up more and convey what I always wanted them know. This has had a positive impact on my mental health, as I can finally express feelings I have been avoiding telling people because I was too embarrassed.”

Oscar Jackson-Walsh, Gen Z participant from UK comments: “Taking part in this social experiment has helped me to become more confident and bridge the gap between myself and my online persona. It has also enabled me to have more open conversations with my family around my identity, which has not only made me feel more loved and accepted than ever before, but also less alone and anxious in a family space.”

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Woebot Health today announced that it has won the “Mental Health Innovation Award” in the 8^th annual MedTech Breakthrough Awards program conducted by MedTech Breakthrough, an independent market intelligence organization that recognizes the top companies, technologies and products in the global digital health and medical technology market.

The honor recognizes the Woebot Health Platform, which is built on a foundation of clinically proven techniques and infused with artificial intelligence (AI). The platform offers instantly accessible, chat-based, adjunctive mental health support and the tools and insights needed to enhance the care experience, automate the collection of population insights and increase provider efficiency. The award also recognizes Woebot, the digital companion at the heart of the platform that delivers personalized, in-the-moment support through chat-based conversations and techniques. Woebot’s conversations are written by conversational writers using elements from evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), along with collaboration from clinical experts.

“We’re thrilled and honored to once again receive an award from MedTech Breakthrough,” said Woebot Health CEO Michael Evers. “We’re seeing more real world evidence that shows how innovative digital solutions can help payors and providers better understand and serve member and patient populations, and become the foundation for even greater advancements in the future.”

The mission of the MedTech Breakthrough Awards is to honor excellence and recognize the innovation, hard work and success in a range of health and medical technology categories, including Telehealth, Clinical Administration, Patient Engagement, Electronic Health Records (EHR), Virtual Care, Medical Devices, Medical Data & Privacy, and many more. This year’s program attracted thousands of nominations from over 18 different countries throughout the world.

“Traditional mental health care is not always there when it’s needed, and mental health issues are front and center in a global conversation, especially with younger populations,” said Steve Johansson, managing director, MedTech Breakthrough. “’Woebot Health is addressing this challenge head on, standing as a mental health ally that is engaging people in their breakthrough mental health solutions at scale. We extend our sincere congratulations to the Woebot Health team for taking home our Mental Health Innovation Award in 2024.”

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Data released today from Wysa’s AI mental health platform reveals the crucial new role that AI plays in mental health crisis mitigation. Wysa studied anonymous data from 19,000 users across 99 countries to understand instances of SOS and user behaviour after triggering the escalation pathway feature. The research follows the company reaching a milestone of 400 Wysa users publicly stating that the app saved their life.

The global study found that 1 in 20 Wysa users (5.2%) reported crisis instances on the app in one year. 82% of these instances were detected by Wysa’s AI and confirmed by the user that they were having thoughts of self harm or suicide. This confirmation escalated the user to Wysa’s SOS interventions. The other 18% of crisis instances were self-selected by users, who were then able to access the best practice crisis resources on the app such as helplines, a safety plan and exercises that could help with grounding.

When a crisis instance was confirmed, just 2.4% of people chose to call helplines when repeatedly encouraged to do so by the app. This indicates that even in moments of distress, few people feel ready to reach out for professional help, highlighting the benefit of alternative means of support in times of crisis.

The personal safety plan, co-created on the app between Wysa and users, containing vital contacts, reasons to live, calming activities, and warning signs, emerged as the most utilised SOS resource. Over 49.2% of users in crises selected this feature, underlining its effectiveness in fostering resilience and self-reflection.

Grounding exercises were used by 46.6% of users in crises. These exercises, which include breathing exercises and mindfulness techniques, help users refocus on the present, increasing their awareness and helping them put their minds at ease.

One-third of crisis incidents occurred during the working day. Following the end of the typical workday, SOS triggers remained high, with 31% occurring between 6 pm and 12 am, and 28.1% post-midnight. The least usage of the SOS feature, at just 5%, was recorded in the morning, between 7 am and 9 am – before work has started. The data shows that a sense of hopelessness and worthlessness is a key determinant of whether someone reaches out for help (in 59% of cases), and this rises during the day.

Jo Aggarwal, CEO and founder of Wysa, said: “This research sheds light on the role AI can play in mitigating mental health crises. It’s evident that AI serves a unique purpose by providing a psychological safe space for people to express concerns. For many individuals, AI conversations serve as a crucial support when they’re not comfortable discussing their worries with another person.”

Wysa is dedicated to upholding the highest standards in data protection, privacy, and clinical safety in all operational aspects, especially in managing crises related to self-harm or suicidal ideation among users. Its support interventions, conversations, and clinical flows are meticulously managed by experienced clinicians and psychologists.

One user said: “Wysa sets a safety plan and helps you cope. This app made me feel better in a matter of three minutes. It made sure to check in, it was helpful, and it helped me calm down more and sleep better.”

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Modern Health, a leading global workplace mental health platform, today announces the appointment of Steve Fitz to its leadership team as Chief Revenue Officer. With an extensive background in go-to-market leadership for global Enterprise SaaS and technology companies, including Sumo Logic and MapR Technologies, Fitz brings a wealth of experience and expertise to Modern Health. Additionally, Modern Health is pleased to announce the promotion of Gyre Renwick, its Chief Operating Officer, to the role of President.

“We are thrilled to welcome Steve on board as a key leader in our journey. His impressive track record of driving growth and scaling businesses aligns perfectly with our ambitious growth plans. Steve’s passion for our mission and his proven ability to nurture best-in-class teams that deliver exceptional customer satisfaction make him an invaluable addition to our leadership team,” comments Founder and CEO of Modern Health, Alyson Watson. “We are equally thrilled to promote Gyre Renwick to President. Gyre’s exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in driving our company’s growth and success over the past three years. We are confident that he will continue to lead Modern Health to new heights as we work toward our mission of making mental health a strength and priority for all.”

Fitz brings with him over 12 years of Enterprise SaaS go-to-market leadership experience and over 25 years of global sales leadership in the technology industry. He is widely recognized for his previous role as Chief Revenue Officer at Sumo Logic, where he played a pivotal role in propelling the company from $40M ARR to over $250M+ ARR, ultimately leading to a successful $2.5B valuation IPO. Over his career, Fitz has developed a deep understanding of global growth, having spent almost five years living in Japan and Hong Kong to lead EMC Corporation Asia Pacific, now part of Dell.

“I am thrilled to join Modern Health, a company that has accomplished remarkable feats by building the leading global mental health platform that is truly an extension of the world’s top people teams. It’s clear to me that Modern Health is transforming workplaces and improving people’s lives, and I can’t think of a more exciting time to join,” comments Steven Fitz, Chief Revenue Officer at Modern Health. “I look forward to building on the company’s success and leading its mission-driven and high-performing team to greater growth and impact.”

This appointment comes on the heels of continued clinical innovation at Modern Health with the recent launch of its Physical Well-Being Pathways Collection, as Modern Health builds a future as the only platform to support mental and physical health across all modalities of care.

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“Expanding our footprint into these three new states is not just a milestone for Alli Connect but a beacon of hope for first responders and the communities they serve,” said Nathan Leatherwood, Head of Growth at Alli Connect. “Our presence in Texas, Illinois, and Alabama is a testament to the trust and demand for our proactive mental health solutions that are truly making a difference and saving lives.”

Alli Connect’s innovative platform equips first responders with early detection, intervention, and AI-driven therapist matching, delivering timely and personalized mental health care. Recognizing the limitations of existing Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), Alli Connect introduces cost-effective tools that significantly enhance the effectiveness and support capabilities of Peer Support teams. By transcending traditional resources that often fall short, Alli Connect reshapes how departments bolster mental wellness among their ranks. The expansion into Texas, Illinois, and Alabama follows a period of remarkable growth and validation for Alli Connect, as more departments and agencies acknowledge the urgent need for wellness solutions that address the unique pressures faced by first responders.

“In every community we serve, our goal is to ensure that first responders have the support they need to maintain their mental health as diligently as they protect our communities,” said Colleen Hilton, CEO of Alli Connect. “By bringing Alli Connect to Texas, Illinois, and Alabama, we are closer to a future where mental wellness is prioritized for those who give so much of themselves to others.”

The expansion into these states represents a critical move towards addressing the mental health crisis among first responders on a national scale. With Alli Connect’s platform, departments and agencies can provide their teams with the comprehensive support they need to thrive holistically, fostering a culture of wellness and resilience.

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Limbic, a leading clinical mental health AI technology company, today announced that it has raised a funding round of $14 million led by Khosla Ventures and joined by new investors, including Gaingels, an LGBTQIA+/Allies investment syndicate, and Illusian, the family office of Ilkka Paananen, co-founder of Supercell.

Limbic’s mental health AI has been used by over 260,000 patients across the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) Talking Therapies. Limbic’s clinical AI has demonstrated increased access to mental health services, acceleration in patient onboarding, reduced wait times, and improved quality of care.

The funding will expand the availability of Limbic’s clinical mental health AI to U.S. health providers. Initial U.S. health systems and payers using Limbic’s clinically-based AI solutions, which were developed for the world’s largest public health system in the NHS, will be announced over the coming months.

A recent Nature Medicine study of Limbic in use by the NHS saw a significant increase in mental health referrals among ethnic and sexual minority groups. This included a 179% increase among people who identified as non-binary, 39% for Asian and 40% for Black mental health patients. Additionally, Limbic’s peer-reviewed research reveals substantial time savings that amount to 50,000 hours of clinician time returned across Limbic’s current usage in the NHS.

“The global behavioral healthcare sector is grappling with a critical workforce supply challenge. Care providers are experiencing burnout, and services are stretched thin, operating on slim margins,” stated Dr. Ross Harper, CEO and co-founder of Limbic.

“Our recent funding reaffirms our commitment to scaling impactful, safe, and regulatory-compliant mental health AI solutions. Our AI was developed to enhance the capabilities of human clinicians, amplify their expertise, and extend high-quality care to meet everyone’s needs. We’ve also bolstered business outcomes for service providers and assisted in increasing workforce capacity thanks to increased operational performance.”

“There is a grave shortage of mental healthcare providers across the globe,” said Vinod Khosla of Khosla Ventures. “AI will allow us to realize the potential of near-free access to such care for everyone, independent of provenance and socioeconomic status. Limbic is at the forefront of this important and ambitious goal, and we are proud to partner with them.”

“Besides the strength of its business opportunity, Limbic’s success in helping minority groups access mental healthcare played a big role in our investment in the company,” said Gaingels’ Managing Director Lorenzo Thione. “Limbic’s use of artificial intelligence to increase participation in mental health services for LGBTQ+ and non-binary patients is a great example of how AI can measurably improve people’s lives through safe, universal and non-judgmental access.”

As well as increasing access to mental health care, Limbic helps patients with the world’s first Generative AI mental health care companion that supports users between therapy sessions. A seamless chatbot interface powered by a sophisticated clinical AI brain guides patients through a selection of 100 themed activities and educational materials, providing mental health support with clinical rigor on an on-demand basis.

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