As economic uncertainty and social restrictions weigh on young people in China, many are turning to AI for comfort, with the chatbot DeepSeek emerging as an unexpected source of emotional support.
Among them is 28-year-old Holly Wang, who describes her nightly conversations with DeepSeek as “therapy sessions.” Since the app’s launch in January, she has shared personal struggles, including the recent loss of her grandmother. The chatbot’s deeply empathetic responses have even moved her to tears.
DeepSeek stands out among China’s AI offerings due to its ability to display its “thought process” before responding. Unlike earlier domestic AI models, it provides a more natural and engaging conversation experience, making it a preferred choice over existing alternatives from Chinese tech giants like Alibaba and Baidu.
For many, AI chatbots offer a safe space in a country where mental health services remain costly and stigmatized. Experts say the rise in depression and anxiety among young people is linked to factors such as the slowing economy, high unemployment, and lingering effects of Covid-19 lockdowns.
However, DeepSeek operates within China’s tightly controlled digital environment. It avoids politically sensitive topics, a limitation that some users accept, focusing instead on the app’s ability to provide personal guidance. While concerns remain about privacy and government oversight, many users prioritize the emotional support it offers over potential risks.
Despite its limitations, DeepSeek’s rapid success highlights a growing demand for digital companionship in a world where young people increasingly feel unheard.
