New apps test AI chatbots to help mental health crisis
WASHINGTON (AP) — Download the mental health chatbot Earkick and you’re greeted by a bandana-wearing panda who could easily fit into a kids’ cartoon.
Start talking or typing about anxiety and the app generates the kind of comforting, sympathetic statements therapists are trained to deliver. The panda might then suggest a guided breathing exercise, ways to reframe negative thoughts or stress-management tips.
It’s all part of a well-established approach used by therapists, but please don’t call it therapy, says Earkick co-founder Karin Andrea Stephan.
“When people call us a form of therapy, that’s OK, but we don’t want to go out there and tout it,” says Stephan, a former professional musician and self-described serial entrepreneur. “We just don’t feel comfortable with that.”
Related articles
Devout Christian doctor, 68, who punched dementia
An 'arrogant' doctor who punched a vulnerable patient for making a racist comment and spitting at hi2024-05-21Atlanta Hawks win NBA draft lottery
CHICAGO (AP) — The Atlanta Hawks came in facing slim odds. They walked away with their biggest victo2024-05-21Town prepares for possible 'last stand' as wildfires rage across Western Canada
FORT NELSON, British Columbia (AP) — An intense wildfire could hit a town in western Canada on Monda2024-05-21Mariners use homers from Julio Rodríguez and Mitch Garver to top A's 8
SEATTLE (AP) — Julio Rodríguez and Mitch Garver both hit two-run home runs, Luis Castillo allowed tw2024-05-21Not so Cool Britannia! Noel Gallagher gives damning verdict on Keir Starmer
Noel Gallagher has insisted he would still back Tony Blair for PM - as he warned Keir Starmer not to2024-05-21Seth Lugo dominates with career
ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) — Seth Lugo racked up a career-high 12 strikeouts and allowed one run over eigh2024-05-21
atest comment