1 in 3 students face mental health roadblocks. Can AI help?

Introduction

R. Rasoli, a double major in computer science and psychology, cites his own experiences in seeking mental health services as his inspiration for creating the app "Doro," designed to assist users during panic attacks. By utilizing AI technology akin to ChatGPT, Doro aims to provide early mental health interventions for users. The app prompts users with questions regarding their symptoms, allowing for the creation of a user profile that details their challenges and the assistance they may require. If the symptoms indicate a serious issue, the app will refer users to a licensed therapist.

Apps like Doro aim to address a notable gap in mental health services, particularly for young adults and teens, who report elevated levels of mental health problems. A 2022 study of Canadian postsecondary students revealed a striking statistic: one in three students felt that campus mental health resources failed to meet their needs.

However, experts like Rachel Katess express concerns regarding the integration of AI into psychological and psychiatric practices. Katess believes that relying on AI could further isolate individuals struggling with mental health issues, as they may not engage in meaningful conversations with another person. Instead, they find themselves subconsciously resorting to their phones at a time when personal connection is crucial.

Despite these concerns, child and family psychiatrist Deana Suak Johnson acknowledges the potential for AI to lend support in an overstretched mental health system. Nonetheless, she emphasizes the necessity of implementing safeguards before introducing any technology into this sensitive area, advocating for a vetting process to ensure its effectiveness.

R. Rasoli agrees, reinforcing that apps like his can never fully replace the role of a qualified therapist. He emphasizes the delicate nature of mental health and the importance of approaching this field with caution. As a daily mental health coach, he believes that today's generation—comfortable discussing mental health—will ultimately determine how technology aligns with their needs in this area.

Keywords

• Mental health
• AI technology
• Panic attack
• Doro app
• Early intervention
• Young adults
• Teen mental health
• Canadian students
• Mental health resources
• Therapist referral
• Isolation
• Technology in psychiatry
• Safeguards

FAQ

Q: What is the Doro app?
A: Doro is an app created by R. Rasoli that uses AI technology to assist users experiencing panic attacks by offering early mental health interventions.

Q: How does the Doro app work?
A: The app asks users questions about their symptoms to create a profile, helping identify challenges and providing necessary assistance. If symptoms are serious, users are referred to a therapist.

Q: Why are apps like Doro needed?
A: According to a 2022 study, one in three Canadian postsecondary students felt that campus mental health resources did not meet their needs, indicating a gap that apps like Doro aim to fill, especially for young adults and teens.

Q: Are there concerns about AI in mental health?
A: Experts express concerns that reliance on AI could intensify feelings of isolation for individuals struggling with mental health. A personal connection with a therapist is essential for effective support.

Q: Can AI replace human therapists?
A: No, R. Rasoli and other professionals agree that while AI can assist, it cannot replace the crucial role of qualified therapists in treatment and support for mental health challenges.