BEIJING: Young people in China are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for mental health support, as psychologists warn of a growing crisis.
"The emotional wellbeing of young people in China is in crisis," according to the book "DeepSeek and Mental Health Support Among Chinese Youth" by psychologist Olive Woo and AI expert Yuk Ming Tang.
At the same time, mental illness remains heavily stigmatised, making it difficult for many to seek help from a therapist.
Young Chinese face enormous pressure: as only children, they are expected to fulfil their families' hopes, gain admission to top schools and universities and secure jobs in a sluggish labour market.
Social media adds another layer of stress, fostering constant comparison and fear of missing out.
The authors explain that mental health problems in China are often considered a personal or family failure. The threat of "losing face" can prevent young people from seeking professional help, they say.
AI emerges as a lifeline
The scale of the "silent crisis" is alarming. Studies estimate that suicide is one of the leading causes of death among people aged 15 to 24, and about 20% of Chinese teens show symptoms of depression. Many do not receive the support they urgently need.
In response, AI platforms like DeepSeek have become a lifeline. They offer low-threshold access, are tailored to Chinese society and provide help around the clock without judgement
AI is also reaching remote or low-income areas where therapists are scarce. China has an estimated two psychiatrists per 100,000 people, compared to roughly 17 per 100,000 in the European Union, though the figure vary widely by country.
However, Woo and Tang caution against over-reliance on AI. The systems lack true empathy and emotional intelligence, and can sometimes give harmful advice, potentially worsening mental health, they say.
Some young users even share instructions online for using AI as a "perfect date" or dream friend, illustrating how closely they interact with the technology.
"The mental health crisis among Chinese youth demands urgent attention, and AI tools like DeepSeek offer a glimmer of hope," Woo explains. "However, their success depends on ethical implementation and global collaboration to ensure safe and equitable use."
Balancing risks and benefits
Therapists could also use AI to evaluate clinical data, Woo and Tang note, but it cannot replace professional judgment in complex or high-risk cases.
AI systems may provide stereotypical, tactless, or incorrect responses and struggle with irony or sarcasm.
Beijing has long promoted the use of AI, though the models remain subject to censorship and often avoid politically sensitive topics.
The Chinese government is increasingly aware of the psychological pressures facing young people.
The Ministry of Education has announced plans to provide support, including through AI-based tools.
In early 2026, the state-run People's Daily reported that a secondary school in Beijing is using pulse monitors to collect student data, which is then analysed by AI to assess their well-being.
The goal is to identify students who may be experiencing particularly high levels of stress.
Woo says, "This is not just about technology, it is about people. It is about bridging the gap between need and access, offering hope and healing through AI, while ensuring its implementation is guided by care and responsibility."
Used in this way, AI could bring about a profound change in access to emotional support, she notes. – dpa
