Woebot is a digital platform used to support people with their mental health. Described as a ‘personal mental health ally’ and based on CBT theory, Woebot uses AI natural language processing to provide a space to talk about mental health and wellbeing at the click of a button, whenever it suits the user. It was developed by clinical research psychologist Alison Darcy.
With regular conversations and check-ins, Woebot is able to gain an insight into the person and their challenges, and provide personalised advice and guiding them towards suitable clinically tested tools and tactics. This advanced chatbot acknowledges the sentiment and provides encouraging, empathetic and personalised responses and shares practical tips and techniques, for example, around mother and baby bonding. The app is currently only available in the USA but data on its impact is promising. A Stanford University study indicated that the app supported a reduction in anxiety and depression among those aged 18-65 years old compared to the control group. The company has also devised treatments specifically designed for teenagers with a diagnosis of mild to moderate depression and new mothers facing post-partum mental health challenges. A recent study suggested that Woebot contributed to a reduction in symptoms of depression that were similar to those associated with clinician-led telehealth CBT.
Woebot won the Best Overall Mental Health Solution award at the MedTech Breakthrough Awards programme. Amid growing pressures on mental health services and notwithstanding the importance of in-person therapeutic care, it is clear that technology can play a role in providing timely access to support for those struggling.