Emotional Healing: Young Chinese Turn to AI for Therapy in a Time of Crisis

In the wake of economic downturns and mental health struggles, young Chinese individuals like Holly Wang have found refuge in AI therapy tools such as DeepSeek. This generative AI app not only provides emotional comfort but also engages users in more meaningful conversations, succeeding where traditional counseling often falls short.

In recent months, a growing number of young people in China have turned to artificial intelligence for support that transcends typical technological applications: emotional guidance. Holly Wang, a 28-year-old from Guangzhou, has been a frequent user of DeepSeek, an AI-powered chatbot that has garnered significant attention since its launch in January. For Holly, DeepSeek has become a source of comfort, helping her navigate personal grief, including the recent passing of her grandmother.

"DeepSeek has been such an amazing counselor," Holly remarked, expressing how the bot's thoughtful responses often resonate deeply with her emotions. She believes it offers insights that surpass those provided by conventional therapy services. This sentiment reflects a broader trend among young Chinese, who are increasingly seeking solace through AI as economic challenges, rising unemployment, and lingering effects of the Covid pandemic weigh heavily on their collective psyche.

DeepSeek stands out in the landscape of AI applications due to its design, which allows users to glimpse its "thought process" before receiving responses. Unlike other Chinese AI tools, which can lag behind Western alternatives like OpenAI's ChatGPT, DeepSeek has captured the interest of many due to its empathetic interactions and literary style. User interactions can take on a poetic nature, with the app crafting beautifully constructed messages that have brought some users to tears.

The tool has even sparked discussions on social media platforms, where users share their experiences. One woman from Hubei province recounted being deeply moved by DeepSeek's advice regarding her concern about oversharing emotions with loved ones. Others, like John from Shenzhen, celebrate the app's ability to engage like a friend or mentor rather than a simple algorithm.

However, the backdrop of DeepSeek's rise is a concerning scarcity of professional mental health services in China, a challenge underscored by cultural stigma and high costs. Academics point out that as mental health issues—such as anxiety and depression—grow in prevalence, tools like DeepSeek offer necessary emotional support that many need, even as caution is advised for serious cases.

Despite the app's popularity, it operates under the scrutiny of China's censorship regulations. Questions about politically sensitive topics often lead to evasive responses or outright redaction, shaping users' experiences and prompting discussions about privacy and ethics. Some users express indifference towards these concerns in favor of the comfort and insight the app provides.

While AI tools like DeepSeek fill a critical gap in mental health support, experts caution that they are not substitutes for professional care. In this demographic where traditional avenues of emotional support may feel lacking, AI presents a novel solution, fostering a supportive dialogue in turbulent times. As young Chinese individuals continue to navigate uncertainty, AI may well play an enduring role in their emotional well-being.