Young Chinese Turn to AI for Emotional Support amidst Economic Struggles

The rise of DeepSeek reflects a growing trend among Chinese youth who turn to AI for therapy and emotional backing, as they face pressures from economic downturns and societal constraints. While the app receives acclaim for its empathetic responses, concerns about data privacy and censorship loom large.

Young people in China have increasingly turned to AI for emotional comfort, with the emergent chatbot DeepSeek capturing widespread attention since its launch in January. Among its users, 28-year-old Holly Wang shares how the chatbot has become her nightly therapist, helping her navigate the grief of losing her grandmother through emotionally resonant conversations that have brought her to tears. “DeepSeek has been such an amazing counselor,” she says, explaining that it often outshines traditional paid counseling services she has encountered.

The success of DeepSeek has not only sparked national pride but offers a unique respite for youth who may feel increasingly despondent amid a sluggish economy and stringent government controls. Experts point to the correlation between rising mental health issues among young people in China and the resentful backdrop of high unemployment rates, pandemic lockdowns, and diminished avenues for expressing discontent.

DeepSeek distinguishes itself from Western counterparts like ChatGPT and Gemini, which are unavailable in China due to strict internet regulations. With a particular focus on understanding users’ emotions, DeepSeek’s AI model R1 allows users to glimpse its thought process, creating a sense of personal connection that users describe as both comforting and enlightening.

Holly—and others like her—have shared transformative experiences during their interactions with DeepSeek. “For the first time, I saw AI as my personal sounding board,” remarked John, a human resources manager, highlighting the conversational clarity the chatbot provides. Another user, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed her gratitude for DeepSeek’s validation of her feelings, noting that it adeptly navigated her emotional vulnerabilities.

While DeepSeek is seen as a bridge for those marginalized by traditional mental health services, concerns regarding censorship and data security are ever-present. With the Chinese government exercising considerable influence over technological platforms, the fear that user data could be exploited simultaneously raises eyebrows in international jurisdictions, leading to stringent access limitations in several countries.

Despite these issues, many users prioritize the emotional insights offered by the app over fears of data privacy. “I can't care less about the privacy concerns,” remarked one devoted user, emphasizing how the app serves as a vital emotional support tool amid a challenging societal landscape.

DeepSeek’s impact illustrates a significant shift toward AI companionship in mental health discourse, providing not only comfort but insights into the emotional struggles faced by the youth in China. However, experts warn that while AI can supplement mental health care, it should not replace professional services for individuals with serious conditions. The need for trained professionals remains critical in addressing the deep-rooted mental health challenges exacerbated by recent socio-economic factors in the region.