New Delhi, Aug 27 (IANS): Fortis Healthcare and US-based emotional wellness startup wayForward have for the first time in India launched an app-based wellness programme to manage stress and related ailments, at an event here on Saturday.

The health app, which shares its name with the company has a unique proprietary algorithm that overcomes the barrier of limited access to experts.

The 'wayForward health app' uses techniques of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and mindfulness to help solve problems caused by stress, anxiety and other emotional or mental health issues in the comfort of their own homes without the fear of stigma.

"Our research with users of the wayForward app in the US has shown that more than 80 per cent cases showed improvement in just three weeks," said Navya Singh, Founder of wayForward, in a statement.

Many a times individuals find themselves unable to manage daily stress in their professional lives. They also find it hard to consult a mental health specialist as they feel embarrassed about it. 

"Despite advancements on many fronts in India, there is a low level of awareness regarding stress and mental health. This digital health programme is a very innovative and much-needed solution for our increasingly stressed society," said Bhavdeep Singh, CEO at Fortis Healthcare.

India's rapid economic expansion has boosted corporate profits and employee incomes, but has also sparked a surge in workplace stress and lifestyle diseases that few Indian companies have addressed, revealed a recent study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations. 

"Mental and emotional health issues are more common than we imagine and impact almost every family, placing a significant burden on individuals and society," said Samir Parikh, Director (Mental Health and Behavioural Science) at Fortis Healthcare.

Through its unique "coach in your pocket" concept, the app ensures that everyone has access to mental and emotional health support at all times.

Available across India on both Android and iOS platforms, the app provides high-quality wellness support in a group and allows experts to help many more people than is possible with one-on-one support.