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Time of India
7 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Chatbots as Confidants: Why Gen Z is Dumping Therapists and Friends for AI Guidance
Comfort in the Algorithm: Privacy without Judgment The Accessibility Paradox: Therapy in Your Pocket for Free Live Events Hyperconnected Yet Emotionally Starved Workplace Stress Is Changing - So Are Its Solutions Relationship Confusion Meets Instant Insight Are Chatbots Replacing Human Connection We'd once rely on best friends at midnight, write frustrations in diaries, or end up on a therapist's couch after a grueling week. Now, many are typing "I'm feeling burnt out" into a chatbot AI - part digital therapist, part sage friend, and part mirror to their inner turmoil, showing them with unsettling precision. And no, it's not a game. It's genuine, it's on the rise, and it's changing how the next generation navigates first hook? No furrowed brows. No snarky comments. No cringe-worthy chatbots provide something deeply precious to this generation: anonymity without judgment. In an image-obsessed, optics-and-social-currency world, vulnerability - even with intimates - is perceived as unsafe. When a 25-year-old marketing executive vents about toxic leadership or a college student explores their sexual identity, they crave critique, not gossip or provide that clinical, unemotional empathy smothered in code - 24/7. For Gen Z , that is safer than performative empathy too often felt in human get real. Therapy costs money, takes time, and, for too many in under-resourced geographies, is simply not an option. As much as the conversation around mental health is greater than ever before, real access to care is still bridges that divide with real-time feedback loops. Applications such as Replika, Woebot, and even ChatGPT are providing consumers with space to vent thoughts, monitor mood trends, or mimic cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) reactions - all without having to log out of their online speed, and not a single scheduling hassle? That's a value proposition too enticing to resist for a generation that views mental health as synonymous with although today's youth is more plugged in than ever, loneliness is at an all-time high. Scrolling isn't synonymous with bonding. DMs aren't synonymous with depth. And most interactions feel more transactional than becomes a stand-in - not necessarily improved, but more reliable. It doesn't ghost you. It doesn't rage. It doesn't misread tone. You can tell a bot your age-old problems, and it will never say, "Can we talk later?"That dependability makes AI emotionally available, something many perceive as lacking in their actual and Gen Z are burning out quicker than their older counterparts, usually before 30. The relentless hustle, gig economy madness, toxic feedback loops, and remote work loneliness are giving rise to a new generation of workplace stress - one that traditional models can't becomes a sounding board when HR doesn't care and managers are unavailable. Whether it's role confusion, imposter syndrome, or dealing with office politics, chatbots are being deployed as strategic stress navigators. They're not fixing the issue, but they are assisting young professionals in regulating prior to a dating apps to situationships, the dating scene is confusing. Expectations are undefined, boundaries are fuzzy, and communication is spotty. In a world where ghosting has become the status quo and romantic nervousness abounds, many are looking to AI to interpret mixed signals, write emotionally intelligent messaging, or work through emotional Because the guidance is quick, impartial, and usually more emotionally intelligent than the individuals example, instead of texting a friend and getting, "Just move on, he's trash," a chatbot could guide you through the emotional process of grieving, or assist in expressing your emotions for a closure message. That sort of formal empathy is not common in peer-to-peer generation isn't only tech savvy; they're emotionally branded by it. From pandemic lockdown to online learning, screen-based engagement isn't an alternative - it's the older generations might laugh at the notion of "talking to a robot," younger consumers do not find it strange. They've had online buddies in games, been brought up with Siri, and are accustomed to managed, screen-based support systems. Chatbots are merely the next iteration of that exactly. But they're filling in for a dysfunctional support system. They're effective, timely, and unconditional qualities many yearn for but can't get in the real yet, they remain tools, not therapists. They have limitations. They can't hug you, call you out when you're sabotaging yourself, or follow emotional currents with human intuition. But in a world, too busy or too disconnected to care, AI cares. And sometimes, that's enough. It's about evolution, not tradition - and a generation practical enough to reach out for help, even if it is written in Python.
Time Business News
13-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
The Digital Therapist: Can AI Replace Human Counseling?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping modern healthcare, and one of its most transformative frontiers is AI in mental health. With the rise of AI-driven therapy apps like Woebot and Wysa, a critical question arises: Can AI truly replace human therapists, or is emotional intelligence still uniquely human? Several AI in mental health tools have emerged with global impact: Woebot Health , developed by psychologists at Stanford University, uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. A 2017 study published in JMIR Mental Health found that Woebot significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in college students over just two weeks (Fitzpatrick et al., 2017). , developed by psychologists at Stanford University, uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) principles. A found that Woebot significantly reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety in college students over just two weeks (Fitzpatrick et al., 2017). Wysa , an AI-enabled mental health app endorsed by the UK's National Health Service (NHS) , has more than 6.5 million users across 95 countries. It combines AI support with access to human therapists and has been used by the World Health Organization (WHO) for community mental health interventions during COVID-19. , an AI-enabled mental health app endorsed by the , has more than across 95 countries. It combines AI support with access to human therapists and has been used by the World Health Organization (WHO) for community mental health interventions during COVID-19. Replika, an emotionally intelligent chatbot, gained attention when users began forming deep emotional bonds with their 'AI friends.' In some cases, users reported a decrease in loneliness, while others voiced concerns over developing psychological dependence on a non-human companion (The Washington Post, 2023). These tools demonstrate how AI in mental health services is becoming more accessible and scalable. Several factors explain the surge in usage of AI in mental health therapy: Accessibility: Available 24/7, regardless of location. Available 24/7, regardless of location. Affordability: Free or low-cost compared to traditional therapy. Free or low-cost compared to traditional therapy. Anonymity: Removes the stigma of seeking help. Removes the stigma of seeking help. Crisis Support: Offers instant tools for anxiety and emotional regulation. A 2021 report by The Lancet Psychiatry revealed that nearly one in three people worldwide lack access to mental health services. AI is emerging as a scalable solution to bridge this treatment gap. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when mental health issues surged, AI tools became lifelines. A study conducted by the University of Oxford (2021) reported that Wysa saw a 77% increase in global usage, with anxiety and stress-related queries peaking during lockdown periods. Users from low-resource settings reported that the app helped them manage isolation and depressive symptoms when no therapist was available. Man chat with AI to express emotions The core criticism remains: AI can simulate empathy—but cannot feel it. Machines process patterns, not emotions. While helpful in managing mood, they may: Miss trauma cues Misinterpret cultural context Offer generic, impersonal responses As noted by Dr. Sherry Turkle, psychologist and MIT professor: 'Empathy requires vulnerability and shared experience—machines cannot do that.' ( Reclaiming Conversation , Penguin Press, 2015) Moreover, the FDA has yet to formally approve any AI mental health tool as a licensed therapy provider, highlighting the gap between innovation and regulation. Leading mental health organizations, including the American Psychological Association (APA), emphasize that AI can complement but not replace human therapists. For example: Wysa partners with licensed clinicians who monitor user progress. partners with licensed clinicians who monitor user progress. Woebot makes it clear it is not a crisis tool and recommends users reach out to emergency services when needed. AI can assist with: Mood tracking and journaling Daily check-ins and goal setting Behavioral nudges using CBT or mindfulness But severe cases—like PTSD, suicidal ideation, or trauma therapy—require a human touch. With sensitive mental health data involved, the ethics of AI therapy are under scrutiny: A 2022 Mozilla Foundation report criticized mental health apps for poor data protection , stating that 28 out of 32 apps they reviewed shared user data with third parties. criticized mental health apps for , stating that 28 out of 32 apps they reviewed shared user data with third parties. Many apps operate without transparent consent models , risking exploitation or data breaches. , risking exploitation or data breaches. Algorithmic bias and lack of diversity in training data may lead to misinterpretation or exclusion of marginalized groups. Countries like the UK, Canada, and the EU are now working on AI ethics frameworks to regulate digital therapy tools. AI presents a groundbreaking opportunity to extend mental health care to billions who lack access. But as powerful as these tools may be, they are still limited by what they cannot replicate—human intuition, empathy, cultural understanding, and trust. In the words of Dr. Thomas Insel, former Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): 'The therapeutic alliance—a relationship built on trust—is what heals. That's not something AI can replicate—yet.' For now, the most promising path forward is a hybrid model: AI for scale and efficiency, humans for depth and compassion. This article was written with the encouragement and inspiration of my professor, Professor Dr. Sobia Masood , whose guidance continues to shape my academic journey. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Style Blueprint
05-07-2025
- Style Blueprint
AI for Mental Health: What to Know About Digital Companions
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit A soft chime. A thoughtful good morning. A simple, 'How are you feeling today?' No, it's not your old friend from college. It's your AI companion, ready to listen when the rest of the world feels out of reach. AI companions have quietly woven themselves into the fabric of modern life, probably aided by the loneliness epidemic. Once the stuff of sci-fi, these digital friends now reside in millions of devices, offering everything from schedule reminders to shared laughter and emotional support. But as we invite these virtual confidants into our lives and minds, how are they transforming our mental health, for better or worse? Virtual Shoulder, Real Relief Imagine coming home after a tough day at work, head still swirling with unspoken worries. Who do you turn to? Increasingly, people are choosing AI companions like Replika, Woebot (closing soon), or Wysa. These platforms use advanced natural language processing to hold conversations, offer empathy, and even provide cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. The benefits are compelling: Alleviating loneliness: For those isolated due to geography, disability, or social anxiety, a nonjudgmental digital friend can mean the difference between silence and support. For those isolated due to geography, disability, or social anxiety, a nonjudgmental digital friend can mean the difference between silence and support. 24/7 accessibility: Unlike human therapists or friends, AI companions don't sleep, get busy, or move away. Unlike human therapists or friends, AI companions don't sleep, get busy, or move away. Low-barrier support: Cost and stigma prevent many people from seeking traditional care. Chatting with an AI is private, free (or inexpensive), and removes the fear of judgment. Are these digital partners a real solution or just a plaster for deeper wounds? The answer is layered. Pin The Hidden Costs of Virtual Connection For all their promise, AI companions provoke important questions. What does it mean to outsource our emotional needs to code and algorithms? Potential drawbacks include: Over-reliance: If an AI becomes your main confidant, does it erode your drive to build (sometimes messy) human bonds? Psychologists warn that intimacy with machines might stunt our social skills and make genuine relationships more intimidating. If an AI becomes your main confidant, does it erode your drive to build (sometimes messy) human bonds? Psychologists warn that intimacy with machines might stunt our social skills and make genuine relationships more intimidating. Privacy concerns: Personal thoughts and feelings, shared in confidence, are stored somewhere. Where does this data end up? Security breaches or misuse could expose vulnerable users or be exploited commercially. Personal thoughts and feelings, shared in confidence, are stored somewhere. Where does this data end up? Security breaches or misuse could expose vulnerable users or be exploited commercially. Imperfect empathy: At the end of the day, AI lacks lived experience. Even the most sophisticated chatbot cannot truly understand complex grief, joy, or love. Even if an AI companion can show better empathy than an untrained human, knowing the source can make us feel less heard. Experts Weigh In Psychologists and ethicists are speaking out on the pros and cons of this new trend: 'The feeling that 'no one is listening to me' makes us want to spend time with machines that seem to care about us,' says Sherry Turkle, author of Alone Together. 'The unconditional support of AI friends may also be instrumental to their ability to prevent suicide. But having a friend who is 'always on your side' might also have negative effects, particularly if they support obviously dangerous ideas,' writes Lucia Caballero for Neuroscience News. 'We're in a position now where technology is inviting us to give away a lot of private information that then can be used by malicious actors or by government actors to harm us,' says Dr. Margaret Mitchell, an AI researcher. Still, many experts agree that AI companions offer support, not a substitute. Used wisely, they offer a lifeline. Used unwisely, they risk becoming a crutch, or worse. What Now? The rise of AI companions signals a seismic shift in how we seek support, blurring lines between technology and intimacy. For some, they're a balm against loneliness and anxiety. For others, they're a pale imitation of messy, marvelous human connection. Perhaps the question isn't whether we should use AI companions for mental health, but how to use them thoughtfully. Supplement, don't replace. Trust, but verify. And whenever possible, cherish the imperfect beauty of real human understanding. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. ********** For a daily dose of style + substance delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to StyleBlueprint! About the Author Miriam Calleja Miriam Calleja is a Pushcart-nominated poet, writer, workshop leader, artist, and translator. Her work appears in numerous publications including Odyssey, Taos Journal, Modern Poetry in Translation, and more. A retired pharmacist, Miriam is passionate about health and wellness topics. When she's not writing, you can find her cooking, reading, crafting, and traveling.
Hindustan Times
01-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Mental wellness tech: Reviewing the most effective AI companions of 2025
The surge of AI-powered mental wellness tools in 2025 is reshaping how people access support. These AI companions offer users a judgment-free space to manage anxiety, track moods, and build healthier habits. With round-the-clock availability, affordable pricing, and evidence-backed methods, they're helping bridge crucial gaps in traditional mental healthcare. This led to us using and reviewing some popular apps out there. Mental wellness tech might be the future of well-being. AI companions are apps or chatbots that combine conversational AI, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and mood tracking to support users' mental wellness. The best of them simulate real conversations, prioritize user privacy, and deliver interventions grounded in psychological research. Many also offer a hybrid approach, connecting users to trained coaches or therapists if needed. Replika: Known for adaptive conversations that evolve with users over time. Its mood tracking and open-ended dialogues make it a safe space for reflection and emotional processing. Over 10 million users turn to Replika for companionship and stress relief. Woebot: Offers CBT-based interventions, emotional check-ins, and practical coping strategies. Clinical studies show users experience reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms in just two weeks of regular use. Wysa: Blends AI chatbot support with human coaches. It's trusted for its use of CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to support users dealing with stress, anxiety, and burnout. Especially valued for its clinical transparency and bilingual accessibility. Youper: Uses generative AI for mood tracking and emotional coaching. It's clinically validated and designed to support users with anxiety and depression through short, daily interactions. Mindsera: Pioneers AI journaling with emotional analytics and writing prompts. It helps users process feelings and develop self-awareness through guided reflection. Real-world benefits and limitations AI mental health tools offer 24/7 support, personalization, and affordability. They're ideal for daily check-ins and emotional resilience. But they're not a replacement for therapy in severe cases, and data privacy remains a key concern. Some users have also raised concerns about being misdiagnosed by AI. Based on our observation, AI has a highly affirming tone instead of critical, reinstating the behaviour of the user at times. AI mental health companions are becoming essential tools for self-care in 2025. While not a substitute for therapy, they offer accessible, supportive ways to manage everyday mental wellness and are worth exploring as part of a holistic mental health routine.
The Citizen
29-06-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Will AI replace your psychologist?
Ever since the Tamagotchi virtual pet was launched in the late 90s, humankind's relationship with machines and technology has slowly... Ever since the Tamagotchi virtual pet was launched in the late 90s, humankind's relationship with machines and technology has slowly ramped up to where we are today. In a world where binary code controls almost every action and reaction, the way we communicate has changed. We either talk to one another through machines or cut out people completely and chinwag with chatbots. And it's everywhere. Mental health support has joined the autotune queue. Generative artificial intelligence tools programmed in the therapeutic space deliver quick access, affordability and machine empathy on demand. Virtual assistants like Woebot and Wysa reach out their virtual hands of measurement and method. These platforms track moods; prompt reflective moments and dish out neatly packaged advice dug deep from within its code. Their appeal is obvious, said medical doctor and psychologist Dr Jonathan Redelinghuys. 'They're anonymous, instant and never overbooked.' AI-based chatbots significantly reduced symptoms of depression A review published in 2023 saw a study that considered more than 7000 academic records, narrowed them down to 35 studies and came to interesting conclusions. It found that AI-based chatbots significantly reduced symptoms of depression and distress, especially when embedded into instant messaging apps. While results were promising for clinically diagnosed patients and elderly users who may teeter on the edge of mental wellness, the same review noted that the technology didn't significantly improve broader psychological well-being. Also Read: Love hurts: Seven common sex injuries Relief, yes. Recovery not so much said Dr Redelinghuys. 'The usefulness of technology should not be confused with therapeutic depth,' he said. 'There's value in having something to turn to in moments of need but that doesn't make it therapy. Therapy is relational. It's anchored in nuance and emotional feedback, which a machine just doesn't have.' Emotional intelligence is still a human trait and while a computer or an app can pretend to understand, it does not and cannot process grief, shame or longing. 'It can't notice when someone's about to cry but doesn't. It won't pause, adjust tone or sit in silence when silence says more than words,' said Dr Redelinghuys. AI can't notice when someone's about to cry A review done by the University of California in 2019 explored how AI could predict and classify mental health issues using everything from electronic health records and brain imaging to smartphone data and social media activity. The findings showed strong predictive capabilities, but limitations in scale and applicability. Most of the underlying studies were small, and there is a risk of generalisation while mental health is, well, unique to an individual. Human therapists adapt on go based on patient input, said Dr Redelinghuys. 'Humans pick up what's not being said, read body language and know when to sit back or take note. A machine can't go beyond what it was programmed to do. It can learn language, it can talk back, but it can't feel you. 'Therapy is a process that involves building a relationship with someone who gets to know you over time. Support isn't always about saying the right thing because it or you are hardwired to do so. Sometimes it's about sitting with someone in discomfort until they find their own way through.' Healing is not plug-and-play Remember, said Dr Redelinghuys, healing is not a plug-and-play device. The role of AI can be supportive and even provide a measure of comfort, he said. 'But it cannot replace humanness.' Online, opinions vary on channels like Reddit. Some users report positive outcomes with chatbots, especially in managing day-to-day anxiety or spirals. Others use them for mood tracking; diary prompts and even crisis moments. But those dealing with trauma, identity confusion or challenging emotional issues often find AI support limited and, as one user called it, emotionally sterile. 'Uncoded or human therapists come with ethical standards, formal training and legal responsibilities. They are accountable,' said Dr Redelinghuys. 'Chatbots and their programmers are not held to answer. Confidentiality might be implied, but there are no professional boards or licensing bodies governing a chatbot's conduct. Data privacy is a real concern.' Now Read: Doing Niksen; the art of nothingness
