AI Therapy Gains Traction Among Young Chinese
Across China, a growing number of young individuals are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots for mental health support, signaling a shift in how they approach therapy. This trend is particularly pronounced among urban populations who are increasingly familiar with online platforms for seeking mental wellness solutions. This mirrors a similar trend that we may witness in the near future in some of Africa’s tech-savvy communities, particularly in areas with limited access to traditional mental healthcare.
DeepSeek and the Appeal of Accessible AI Support
Jiying Zhang, a nutritionist and health coach, experienced the effectiveness of AI therapy firsthand after trying DeepSeek. Impressed by the AI model’s instant support, diverse insights, and customizability—including the ability to emulate inspirational figures like Carl Rogers and Cheryl Strayed—Zhang became an advocate. Her positive experience, shared on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu, encouraged others to explore the technology. Zhang highlighted the accessibility and affordability of AI therapy, describing it as a “therapist available 24/7, who never judges you and is completely free.” This accessibility is a significant driver of AI therapy’s popularity, especially for young people and urban residents. On Xiaohongshu, users openly share their interactions with chatbots, discussing issues related to anxiety, depression, and relationships. Searches for “crying after chatting with AI” have garnered over one million posts, indicating the emotional impact and widespread adoption of this technology.
In the African context, with the potential for limited availability of mental health professionals, AI-powered therapy could present an interesting option for early interventions.
In conclusion, the adoption of AI chatbots for therapy in China showcases a shift in how young people seek and receive mental health support. This trend reflects a desire for accessible, personalized, and affordable mental healthcare solutions. The success of AI therapy in China provides valuable lessons for other regions, including potentially some areas in Africa.
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