Amid India’s mental health crisis, Keshav, a stressed intern, turned to AI chatbot ChatGPT alongside therapy for unsettling thoughts, showcasing how AI tools bridge gaps in a healthcare system with only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 people. With therapy costs ranging from Rs 1,000 to Rs 7,000, many fear stigma and expense. AI-driven apps like Wysa and Infiheal are gaining traction, offering accessible support to those in need; Wysa alone boasts over 1 million users, 70% of whom are women. While AI apps provide immediate relief and convenience, experts warn they can’t replace human therapists’ nuanced understanding. Issues like inaccurate responses and cultural context inadequacies persist. Researchers advocate using AI as a supplementary tool rather than a substitute, emphasizing the importance of human connection in therapy. As AI technology evolves, its role in mental health requires careful exploration and ongoing evaluation for user safety and effectiveness.
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