How AI and ChatGPT-like Technologies Are Transforming the Fight Against Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health issues in the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 264 million people globally suffer from depression. This accounts for approximately 3.4% of the global population. However, only 10% of them receive the necessary treatment.

Timely diagnosis of depression is challenging due to a shortage of qualified psychologists. This also creates barriers to accessing effective treatment methods and reduces patients' quality of life.

ChatGPT and its analogs can provide continuous and personalized support for people suffering from depression. They are available 24/7, offering advice, support, and practical strategies to improve mental well-being. A 2022 study by Cambridge highlights the potential of AI-powered chatbots to detect symptoms of depression through conversation analysis. Additionally, research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research showed that using ChatGPT-based chatbots leads to a reduction in depression symptoms and improves patients' overall mental health.

Several startups are actively working in this direction, including:

• Woebot: Offers a chatbot to help combat depression and anxiety, providing users with real-time support and advice.

• Replika: An AI companion capable of engaging in dialogue and supporting users, including those suffering from depression, by helping them talk about their feelings and find psychological support.

• Youper: Uses AI to create personalized programs that help address depression and anxiety, offering therapeutic assistance and resources to improve mental health.

• Wysa: An AI-powered chatbot that helps users manage stress, anxiety, and depression by providing conversational tools and teaching self-help skills.

• BetterHelp: An online therapy platform that connects users with professional psychologists and counselors, utilizing AI to match clients with suitable specialists and deliver high-quality psychological support services.

• Talkspace: Offers online therapy with licensed psychologists, allowing users to receive help and advice through text messages and video conferencing.

We would like to specifically note that some of the companies listed above can be categorized under multiple sections. Additionally, my team at AITach and I invested a considerable amount of time and resources into researching companies and startups that are already utilizing AI and ChatGPT-like technologies. This effort was necessary as a significant number of companies announced product launches in 2022-2023 but did not survive.

We deemed it important to present this list in a condensed format. If needed, we would be happy to provide the essence and purpose of these companies' work.