Young adults in China, grappling with a sluggish economy and post-pandemic anxiety, are increasingly seeking emotional support through artificial intelligence. The AI app DeepSeek has become a go-to for many, offering comforting interactions that resonate deeply with its users.
Holly Wang, a 28-year-old user, discovered DeepSeek after a personal loss and has since relied on the app for therapeutic conversations. "DeepSeek has been such an amazing counsellor," she says, feeling that it sometimes provides better insight than traditional paid counseling. The app, which launched in January, quickly gained traction, topping download charts and becoming a source of national pride.
Unlike Western counterparts like ChatGPT, which are blocked in China, DeepSeek shines in its ability to respond empathetically, providing users with a glimpse of its "thought process." Many users have reported feeling emotionally moved by the app’s comforting interactions. For example, after asking DeepSeek to craft a tribute for her late grandmother, Holly was overwhelmed by the app's capacity to articulate her feelings so beautifully.
Experts note that the rise of AI in mental health supports an increasing demand for such services, particularly in a culture where mental health issues are often stigmatized. Although the app has garnered numerous positive anecdotes, some scholars caution against relying too heavily on AI for serious mental health issues, as the technology cannot substitute professional help.
Yet, concerns about privacy and governmental control shadow DeepSeek's success. Users must navigate the app's self-censorship, as sensitive political topics are often deflected. The app's strict content moderation reflects the broader online environment in China, where dissenting voices are frequently silenced. Despite this, many users, like Holly, express that they appreciate the app for its therapeutic abilities, often overlooking its limitations.
In an era where personal connections can feel distant, DeepSeek represents a novel approach for young Chinese people to find solace and speak their truths, even in the most unexpected forms.
