Loneliness has become a major health issue worldwide, with more than one-third of adults frequently experiencing feelings of isolation. As a solution to this epidemic, AI-powered chatbots have emerged as a potential source of companionship.
Emerged from COVID–19, we are now facing another growing global health issue: the “loneliness” epidemic. Studies have shown that over one-third of adults worldwide experience loneliness frequently [1], with more than 25 million adults in the UK [2] and 36% of all Americans reporting feelings of desolation [3]. While loneliness and social isolation were undoubtedly exacerbated by COVID–19, this was a deep-rooted problem existing far before the pandemic. One of the primary drivers of loneliness is the rise of individualism, particularly in Western societies, which emphasizes self-sufficiency and independence. While these are certainly admirable qualities, they can also lead to a lack of social connections, especially as people become more focused on their own goals and ambitions. While the root causes of these problems have not been adequately researched and defined, social media has also been identified as a contributing factor. It significantly reduces the quality of real-life relationships, worsens feelings of isolation, and decreases the quality of real-life relationships
This lack of social connection can pose significant risks to health and longevity. In fact, loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of premature death by 29% [4]. Those who frequently experience loneliness are also at a higher risk of developing a range of health problems, including heart disease (29% increased risk) and stroke (32% increased risk). In addition, lack of social connection can increase susceptibility to viruses, respiratory illnesses, and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and even dementia [4]. Given the severe risks associated, we must find ways to address this growing epidemic. If we cannot solve this issue ourselves, artificial intelligence could be a potential answer to humanity’s loneliness.
In recent times, the prevalence of AI-powered chatbots has increased significantly in our daily lives as virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa are becoming more common. OpenAI's successful release of ChatGPT in late 2022 has also unleashed unlimited possibilities for integrating AI–driven chatbots into our daily lives. But one question remains unanswered: How can we leverage AI in the uncharted realm of human connections and relationships?
Coded companionship
Gone are the days when chatbots merely scanned for keywords or phrases to respond with pre-programmed messages. Today’s chatbots have made significant advancements, with the ability to simulate human-like conversations using cutting-edge technologies such as natural language understanding, natural language generation, and machine learning. With innovative conversational abilities, AI-powered chatbots can effectively provide companionship, social connection, and mental health support to help us address the loneliness epidemic. Here are several benefits of chatbots in alleviating loneliness:
- Accessibility and availability are some of the advantages of using AI-powered chatbots to combat loneliness. These chatbots are available 24/7, making them accessible whenever someone is in need, even at odd hours. They also have the ability to help many people at once, meeting demand when real people can't.
- Trust and openness are other benefits of AI companions. AI companions are tools that allow people to open up, creating a safe space for people to share their thoughts without feeling judged.
- AI chatbots can offer curated advice on how to engage in the community, reach out to others and combat loneliness directly. These chatbots are trained with medical knowledge-based data to analyze the needs of users and offer medical tips such as diet, exercise, medication, and sleep, to improve some of the health conditions loneliness and social isolation can affect. Apart from that, AI companions can just chat with users, creating a friendly and supportive environment.
From Artificial Intimacy to Decreased Loneliness
It is certain that in today’s lonely world, AI–powered chatbots are helping us solve this epidemic, one code at a time. Research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research has shown that using chatbots for mental health support can effectively reduce feelings of loneliness and social isolation [9].
For example, ElliQ, a companion robot designed specifically for older adults who live alone, utilizes natural language processing and machine learning techniques to communicate with users, offer medication reminders, and suggest activities to fight social isolation. In a trial run, 95% of seniors who interacted with ElliQ reported feeling less lonely and more connected with others [5]. As the number of older adults living alone continues to increase, companion robots like ElliQ hold significant potential in reducing loneliness among elders.
It is not just the elders who are affected by the loneliness epidemic. A reported 73% of Generation Z and 71% of millennials always feel alone [6]. Xiaoice, a chatbot developed by Microsoft China, has amassed an impressive 660 million users since 2019 [8]. Additionally, users of Xiaoice, have stated that they feel more positive and emotionally supported, according to a 2018 research [10].
Apps like Woebot and Talkspace use AI to provide personalized support and guidance to users. Woebot, for example, utilizes natural language processing (NLP) to engage in conversation with users and offer evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy. By analyzing users' responses and identifying patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, Woebot can provide personalized treatment and track progress over time. This platform is available 24/7, making it accessible for individuals who may not have access to traditional treatment due to cost or location. Furthermore, Woebot's use of AI enables it to continually improve its therapy approach by learning from user interactions. In a randomized controlled trial, Woebot was found to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. As AI-powered mental health apps continue to develop, they have the potential to revolutionize the way individuals receive mental health support and provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional therapy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise of AI chatbots presents an opportunity to tackle the loneliness epidemic affecting millions of people worldwide. While technology is becoming more advanced and human-like, it should be used cautiously to ensure that it complements, rather than replaces, human connection. By leveraging AI chatbots to support individuals struggling with mental health issues, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society that prioritizes the well-being of all its members. With the right approach and careful consideration, AI chatbots can play a critical role in addressing the loneliness epidemic and positively impacting society.
[1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/1222815/loneliness-among-adults-by-country/
[2] https://www.campaigntoendloneliness.org/facts-and-statistics/
[4] https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf
[6] https://newsroom.thecignagroup.com/loneliness-in-america
[7] https://fortune.com/2023/07/12/brainstorm-tech-chatbot-dating/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9680932/
[10] https://arxiv.org/abs/1801.01957
