Artificial Intelligence Therapy Reduces Depression and Anxiety

July 19, 2021 - In a recent clinical study, scientists at Stanford University confirmed a new model of mental health treatment in which artificial intelligence therapy is implemented, significantly reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. The team analyzed how the AI-powered telehealth platform for mental health, Youper, affected symptoms of depression and anxiety through AI therapy.

“This model of treatment uses AI to deliver just-in-time interventions to help users practice emotion regulation skills anytime and anywhere using their smartphones,” the press release stated.

The study examined the real-world data of 4,500 Youper users to gain an understanding of how AI therapy impacts symptoms of anxiety and depression. The users were followed for a total of four weeks; however, researchers saw levels of anxiety and depression decrease in two.

Researchers observed anxiety and depressing decrease by 24 percent and 19 percent, respectively, in users within the first two weeks. Levels continued to stay low after four weeks of app use.

The authors of the study concluded that the data showed the acceptability and effectiveness of Youper’s AI therapy as a treatment method for anxiety and depression. The authors also highlighted the potential positive impact of the app for expanding access to mental health care, reducing the cost, and eliminating care disparities.

“The mental health care system is failing us — studies show that it can take ten years for someone to get adequate treatment. Telemedicine alone can’t solve this problem — there are not enough health professionals, and they are overwhelmed themselves,” Dr. Jose Hamilton, MD, founder and CEO of Youper, said in a press release.

“The most recent study showing that Artificial Intelligence can be applied to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety led us to expand Youper to offer comprehensive and affordable mental health care by expanding with online doctor visits and medication delivery,” Hamilton continued.

According to the study, Youper’s approach to combining AI and telehealth capabilities encourages patient engagement and augments mental health providers.

Currently, the demand for mental health services is climbing with 47 million Americans suffering from mental health issues. A shortage of mental health support services is leaving individuals with inadequate care.

“In response to increasing demand for access to complete mental health care, Youper has expanded its offering to include online medical visits and medication delivery. The combination of AI and telehealth makes mental health care radically accessible. Youper is the first telehealth platform where AI and health professionals work together to deliver mental health care,” the press release stated.

In addition to online medical visits and medication delivery, Youper also offers a series of other services. These include a free AI mental health assessment for patients to understand their symptoms; therapy exercises for individuals to manage their feelings, thoughts, behavior; care counselors to support patients in their mental health journey; and symptom monitoring with regular check-ups.