AI-Powered Conversations: The Diagnostic Potential of Chatbots in Mental Health Care

Abstract

In this study, the diagnostic potential of AI-powered chatbots in mental health care, assessing their ability
to detect symptoms of mental health disorders and provide appropriate interventions or referrals was
examined. The study employed Breezy, an AI-powered chatbot developed to engage users in social
conversations while addressing depressive symptoms. Breezy is not designed for clinical diagnoses but
aims to provide social support to users experiencing depressive feelings. It will be available as a premium
service across Nigeria, offering a new way to address mental health issues through accessible AI
technology. Results of the study reveal that the primary distribution of the intent of the chatbot was "sleep",
"about", "sad", "depressed", "learn more", "help", "something else", "scared", "user-meditation", "thanks",
These keywords are depressive (containing depression- or sadness-related keywords), happy (containing
happiness- or excitement-related keywords), and general (indicating all utterances in the same period). The
findings show that chatbots may share valuable information about depressive states, particularly in users who cannot describe their feelings to others. Overall, the study provides valuable knowledge about how the
usage of such technology can transform the diagnostic approach and try to improve global access to mental
health services.