Abstract
As mental health challenges among children and adolescents continue to rise globally, access to timely, effective care remains a significant barrier. Traditional psychotherapy approaches often fall short due to limitations in resources, geographic barriers, and stigma. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a transformative solution by powering digital mental health interventions that are scalable, accessible, and personalized. This paper explores the integration of AI in digital mental health platforms tailored for young populations, examining its potential to enhance early detection, provide personalized treatment, and improve overall mental health outcomes. Key AI applications, such as virtual therapy chatbots, emotion recognition systems, and behavioral monitoring tools, are reviewed for their effectiveness in addressing common mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress among children and adolescents. The paper also addresses critical challenges, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, and the need for ethical oversight. Furthermore, it highlights opportunities for AI to reduce mental health stigma, improve access to care, and support clinicians in delivering more efficient and effective interventions. By mapping out current trends, challenges, and future directions, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how AI can reshape the landscape of peadiatric mental health care, offering a way forward for more accessible, personalized, and equitable solutions for youth mental health.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Health Promotion and Education
KEYWORDS
Youth, Digital Mental Health, AI, Utility
