Lawmaker advocates AI-driven psychological support services

Lawmaker Lam Lon Wai is urging the government to develop an artificial intelligence (AI)-based psychological support platform, leveraging technologies like DeepSeek and big data technology to provide residents with instant emotional support and preliminary mental health assessments.

In a written inquiry, Lam highlighted the rapid advancements in AI, particularly in natural language processing, which he believes can deliver “efficient and convenient” online psychological support services. He proposed interdepartmental collaboration between the government, technology companies, and academic institutions to create an integrated platform that offers 24-hour access to AI-driven counseling and emotional support.

Lam pointed to the success of AI chatbots like ChatGPT, launched in 2022, and studies showing that AI voice assistants can effectively alleviate symptoms of mild to moderate depression and anxiety.

He emphasized that AI psychotherapy serves as a valuable complement to traditional therapy, especially in addressing immediate needs when mental health professionals are in short supply.

The lawmaker cited DeepSeek, a large-scale language model developed by a Chinese company, as a potential foundation for such a platform.

He also referenced Hong Kong’s “Mental Health Companion” app, developed by students at the University of Hong Kong, which uses big data and AI to monitor users’ mental health through metrics like sleep quality, heart rate, and stress levels.

The app also connects users to a 24-hour hotline for professional support and includes therapeutic activities like journaling and meditation. https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/wp-admin/post-new.php#edit_timestamp

Lam stressed the need for Macau to adopt similar innovations, particularly as demand for psychosocial support continues to rise.

He called on the government to integrate technological advancements into its “BigHealth” development strategy, ensuring more efficient and direct responses to community needs.

Furthermore, Lam acknowledged the potential concerns residents might have regarding AI support services, particularly related to data privacy. He urged the government to enhance public acceptance by formulating stringent policies on data protection and ensuring compliance with international security standards.

“Such platforms can provide instant emotional support and preliminary psychological assessments to residents through chatting with robots, and at the same time offer 24-hour online psychological counseling,” Lam said, urging authorities to prioritize the development of AI-driven mental health services. Victoria Chan