Abstract

This chapter introduces a strategic sustainability framework to overcome the post-pandemic integration challenges of digital mental health services (DMHS) in South African higher education institutions (SA HEIs). Although e-health tools offer transformative benefits for staff well-being, their long-term adoption is threatened by interconnected economic, social, environmental, and technological barriers. This chapter moves the discourse forward by not only diagnosing these challenges but also by recommending practical, context-specific pathways for sustainable implementation. It details how SA HEIs can leverage strategic partnerships, inclusive design, leadership commitment, and robust data governance to build resilient DMHS. The conclusions provide a novel blueprint for institutional policymakers to ensure equitable service delivery, thereby directly advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 through enhanced staff mental health support.