Innovative new technologies, including AI-powered smart glasses and augmented reality apps, are set to revolutionize mental health services across the UK, providing real-time support for millions, including those with severe depression and anxiety.
Science Minister Lord Vallance announced that 17 pioneering projects will receive funding from a £3.6 million Innovate UK investment. These initiatives aim to deliver low-cost, accessible mental health interventions nationwide, reducing pressure on the NHS while improving outcomes for patients, particularly in remote or underserved areas.
Among the most promising developments is CrossSense’s lightweight smart glasses. Using AI, these glasses assist users with depression or anxiety in completing daily tasks by recognizing household objects and offering step-by-step guidance through a connected app.
The technology also helps reframe negative thoughts, provides safety prompts—such as warnings to avoid hot surfaces—and adapts over time to prevent cognitive decline, including early-stage dementia.
Lord Vallance said:
“These projects are shining examples of how innovation can transform people’s quality of life. From smart glasses helping those with debilitating depression to navigate daily life, to immersive games supporting children’s social skills, we are backing cutting-edge technology that unlocks opportunity, supports the NHS, and strengthens our economy.”
Minister for Mental Health, Baroness Merron, added:
“Technology is transforming healthcare, putting patients at the center of this revolution. By supporting tools like smart glasses and AI filter apps, we are reaching people who often get left behind, improving lives while easing pressure on the NHS as part of our Plan for Change.”
Other notable projects include:
Play Well for Life: An augmented reality board game helping children develop social and emotional skills in group settings.
Life Process Program, Northern Ireland: A customizable virtual coach for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
EcoGPX, West Yorkshire: Connecting adults with generalized anxiety to nature through XR-linked physical activities.
Photography Based Therapeutics, University of Surrey: A world-first AR app allowing young people to create therapeutic visual content for use in remote therapy or personal visual diaries.
The funded initiatives explore immersive technologies such as VR, AR, mixed reality, haptics, and AI-driven software. Many will be available as NHS medical devices following clinical diagnosis, ensuring safe and regulated use. They aim to improve outcomes for conditions including ADHD, autism, PTSD, occupational stress, addiction recovery, anxiety, and depression.
Dr. Cynthia Bullock, Director of Healthy Lives at Innovate UK, stated:
“Through this Mindset investment, we are fostering collaboration between the UK’s immersive technology sector and mental health providers. These projects move beyond general wellbeing tools to deliver innovative treatments for individuals across all stages of life.”
This initiative aligns with the government’s 10-Year Health Plan, which provides £688 million for expanding mental health support, hiring more mental health professionals, and improving access to therapies through the NHS App.
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