Can AI Assist In Improving Mental Wellbeing?

These days, mental health illnesses are more prevalent than ever. Between demanding work pressures, trying to be present with family, financial strain and constant updates on social media, most people are just trying to make it through. Some may not even realise the impact that these factors are having.

One in four UK citizens have a mental health condition, with anxiety and depression being the most common two. So with a society that is increasingly overwhelmed and emotionally drained, could AI step in to help? And does it really possess the ability to understand things like human emotions and psychological health?

 

The Connection Between AI And Mental Health

 

It’s a common misconception that mental wellbeing simply means that you are free from mental illness. It actually refers to how one manages their stress, how they feel about themselves and experience life. Mental wellbeing also has a big influence over the way a person makes decisions so it should be prioritised just as much as eating or sleeping.

Since AI is already being integrated into most areas of our lives, mental health is no different. In this case, it’s being used as a tool to support daily wellbeing in addition to identifying more serious mental health issues.

It can do this by monitoring behavioural patterns and recognising emotional distress in individuals. It then goes one step further by offering personalised support or directing the individual to mental health resources for help.

 

How Can AI Assist In Improving Mental Wellbeing?

 

Some are definitely skeptical about a machine’s ability to comprehend something as complex as human feelings. But the truth is, AI has actually made some meaningful strides in the mental health space.

Here are some of the ways that AI is helping those struggling to feel seen and supported.

 

AI Mental Health Chatbots

 

These chatbots are not your usual run-of-the-mill customer service bots that you encounter when visiting a website or calling a business. These are AI companions that have been designed to simulate conversations that are both therapeutic and empathetic.

They offer a safe space where individuals can feel comfortable enough to express how they feel and track their moods over time in addition to providing coping strategies.

Of course, these should not replace professional therapy, but they can help if you need immediate support.

 

Monitor Moods And Behaviours

 

AI mental health tracking apps have become a handy tool to have if you’re ever feeling off but can’t quite seem to figure out why. They analyse things like your daily moods, sleep patterns, energy levels and exercise habits to find patterns.

It might find that you get anxious on Sunday nights before work or a bad night’s sleep impacts your mood. When trends are found, these apps will alert you and recommend how you can combat these feelings.

 

 

Can Detect Mental Health Issues Early

 

More recently, AI has been trained to be able to spot the early signs of conditions like depression, PTSD and even schizophrenia. It analyses a whole host of factors like social media activity, text messages, tone of voice and facial expressions.

This does raise a lot of concern around privacy specifically about how your data is stored and who can access it. But at the same time, it’s a proactive approach that could prompt people to get help before the condition worsens.

 

Accessible To Everyone

 

A large percentage of those who use AI for mental health say they do so because it’s accessible. Not everyone can afford to see a therapist or even feel comfortable speaking to one.

On the other hand, AI is available 24/7, generally free or inexpensive and remove that fear of judgement that some individuals may have. Again, it can’t replace a human therapist but it can be the first step in seeking professional help.

 

Should It Replace Human Connection?

 

The truth is, AI can’t compare to real human connection and it shouldn’t be used as a complete replacement. Yes, it can complement it but empathy and compassion can’t be replaced.

Human relationships are built on factors like trust and shared experiences, which is something AI isn’t able to replicate. But, it does offer available tools and insights into patterns that one may not even pick up on themselves.

Essentially, AI should be there to fill the gaps when professional help isn’t immediately available and act as just one of the stepping stones towards a stronger mental wellbeing journey.