Exploring Artificial Intelligence's Role in Mental Health Through Language Models

If you're curious about how AI is revolutionizing mental health support, one of the big hurdles is learning the language! Terms like Natural Language Processing (NLP), Natural Language Models (NLMs), chatbots, and Chat GPT all get thrown into the mix. But what do they mean? And how do they relate to your own mental health journey?

In the first part of a three-part series aimed at demystifying AI's role in mental health, we focus on the essential vocabulary needed to navigate this innovative field.

Concepts like the ones I listed above are crucial for understanding how AI can interpret and respond conversationally to human language, which is particularly important when discussing mental health applications.

Topics include:

• An explanation of key terms that we'll be using throughout this mini-series
• How natural language processing allows computers to understand human language, using a personal example of "twerk anxiety"!
• The role that natural language models can have in providing support, and an introduction to virtual therapy assistants and chatbots
• How a large language model like Chat GPT generates responses and learns from data

By grasping concepts like NLP, NLMs, and Chat GPT, you will be better able to comprehend the impact of AI on mental health care. Over the next episodes, we will further explore this evolving landscape.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Reach the National Suicide Prevention Line (USA) by dialing 988 on your phone or 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).
• Contact the Trevor Project (for suicide prevention and overall mental well-being of young LGBTQ lives) at https://www.thetrevorproject.org or call 866-488-7386. 
• For anyone outside the USA, see https://befrienders.org/

To learn more foundational terms used in AI: Listen to Episode 7 of the Women's Digital Health podcast: Artificial Intelligence in Women's Health

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Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

The personal views expressed by guests on Women's Digital Health are their own. Their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women's Digital Health, or associated organizations.

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