Woebot, a therapy chatbot developed by Stanford psychologists and AI experts, offers a new approach to managing mental health issues. Available as a smartphone app, Woebot uses cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) techniques to help users cope with feelings of depression and anxiety. Interacting with users via text messages, it offers supportive and empathetic responses, while also providing mental health exercises and tracking moods over time.
The chatbot is designed to engage with users daily, providing consistent support and intervention. It is not intended to replace traditional therapy, but rather to supplement it, particularly for those who may not have regular access to mental health services. Woebot also provides a level of anonymity, which can be helpful for those who may feel uncomfortable discussing their feelings with others.
Despite being an AI, Woebot’s interactions feel surprisingly human. Its responses are not instantaneous, creating a more realistic conversation pace, and it uses humour and gifs to create a friendly, non-judgemental atmosphere. This approach has seen Woebot gain popularity, with users reporting reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety after two weeks of use. However, it’s important to note that Woebot is not a crisis service and should not be used as a substitute for professional mental health care.