Young people in China are increasingly turning to AI applications for emotional support, with the innovative DeepSeek chatbot emerging as a prominent resource. Holly Wang, a 28-year-old user from Guangzhou, has transformed her nightly routine into therapy sessions with DeepSeek, sharing personal challenges including the loss of her grandmother. This unique AI tool, launched in January, resonates deeply with users, offering perspectives that often bring them to tears.
Young Chinese Seek Emotional Support Through AI Therapy

Young Chinese Seek Emotional Support Through AI Therapy
A new trend in mental health therapy sees young Chinese using AI apps for emotional support, tapping into technology for comfort and guidance.
In a world where mental health resources can be stigmatized and scarce, especially in Asia, DeepSeek has become a lifeline for many amidst economic uncertainty and social pressures. Users like Holly find the app's ability to articulate feelings and provide thoughtful replies comforting, often preferring it over traditional counseling services. Unlike its Western counterparts like ChatGPT, which are banned in China, DeepSeek has thrived in an environment where domestic apps generally fall short, marking a breakthrough in accessible emotional support.
The app’s innovative design, allowing users to glimpse its reasoning before responses, adds a personal touch that many find lacking in human interactions. Experts suggest that while DeepSeek offers important emotional support, it’s crucial that individuals with serious mental health issues seek help from professional counselors. Despite concerns over censorship and data privacy related to government oversight of technology, many users are willing to overlook these risks for the solace DeepSeek provides.
Overall, as mental health challenges grow and traditional support networks falter, AI therapy applications like DeepSeek are carving out a new niche in the lives of young adults across China.
As AI therapy apps like DeepSeek gain traction, they become essential companions for many young Chinese navigating emotional challenges in today's fast-paced world.
The app’s innovative design, allowing users to glimpse its reasoning before responses, adds a personal touch that many find lacking in human interactions. Experts suggest that while DeepSeek offers important emotional support, it’s crucial that individuals with serious mental health issues seek help from professional counselors. Despite concerns over censorship and data privacy related to government oversight of technology, many users are willing to overlook these risks for the solace DeepSeek provides.
Overall, as mental health challenges grow and traditional support networks falter, AI therapy applications like DeepSeek are carving out a new niche in the lives of young adults across China.
As AI therapy apps like DeepSeek gain traction, they become essential companions for many young Chinese navigating emotional challenges in today's fast-paced world.