개요
세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장은 2023년 11억 달러에 달하고, 2031년에는 17억 6,000만 달러에 달할 것으로 예상되며, 2024-2031년 예측 기간 동안 6.2%의 CAGR을 기록할 것으로 예상됩니다.
정신건강 챗봇이라고도 불리는 테라피 챗봇은 개인의 정신건강 관리를 돕기 위해 고안된 대화형 AI 시스템입니다. 이 챗봇은 자연어 처리(NLP) 및 기계 학습과 같은 기술을 활용하여 의미 있는 대화를 통해 사용자를 참여시키고, 정신건강 상태를 평가하고, 개인화된 대처 전략과 리소스를 제공합니다. 모바일 애플리케이션, 웹사이트, 메시징 앱 등 다양한 플랫폼에서 이용할 수 있습니다.
정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇은 인간과 같은 대화를 시뮬레이션하고 사용자에게 심리적 지원과 리소스를 제공하도록 설계된 AI 기반 도구입니다. 이 챗봇은 인지행동치료(CBT)와 같은 증거 기반 치료 기술을 도입하여 개인의 정신건강 관리를 돕습니다. 즉각적인 응답과 지원을 제공함으로써, 특히 전통적인 정신건강 서비스가 제한적이거나 낙인찍힌 지역에서 도움을 요청하는 사람들이 쉽게 접근할 수 있는 첫 번째 접점 역할을 합니다. 이러한 요인들이 전 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장 성장의 원동력이 되고 있습니다.
촉진요인과 저해요인
이용하기 쉬운 정신건강 서비스에 대한 수요 증가
접근 가능한 정신건강 서비스에 대한 수요 증가는 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장의 성장을 크게 견인하고 있으며, 이러한 추세는 예측 기간 동안 지속될 것으로 예상됩니다.
세계보건기구(WHO)의 보고에 따르면, 팬데믹은 전 세계 정신건강에 심각한 영향을 미쳤으며, 그 결과 전 세계적으로 불안과 우울증의 비율이 25% 증가했다고 합니다. 이 시기에 경험한 고립, 질병에 대한 두려움, 경제적 불안정, 슬픔은 기존의 정신건강 문제를 악화시키고 새로운 문제를 일으켰습니다.
기존의 정신건강 서비스는 예약 대기 시간이 길고, 전문가의 가용성이 제한적이며, 지리적 제약이 있는 등 큰 장애물에 부딪히는 경우가 많습니다. 이러한 문제로 인해 많은 사람들이 도움을 요청하는 것을 주저하는 경우가 많습니다. 챗봇은 언제든지 즉각적인 지원과 리소스를 제공함으로써 실행 가능한 대안을 제공합니다.
예를 들어, 2023년 1월 Limbic Inc.가 개발한 AI 기반 정신건강 평가 도구인 Limbic Access의 효과를 강조하는 중요한 연구가 발표되었습니다. 영국 내 28개 NHS Talking Therapies 서비스에서 129,400명의 환자를 대상으로 한 이 조사는 AI를 사용하면 특히 취약 계층의 정신건강 지원에 대한 접근성을 크게 향상시킬 수 있다는 것을 입증했습니다. 이 조사에 따르면, 비이성애자들의 정신건강 지원에 대한 접근성이 179% 증가한 것으로 나타났습니다. 또한 소수 민족 그룹의 접근성도 29% 증가했습니다. 이는 림빅 액세스가 역사적으로 정신건강 서비스 접근에 장벽에 직면했던 계층에 효과적으로 접근했음을 보여줍니다.
또한 2021년 10월 랜싯(Lancet)지에 게재된 논문에 따르면, 팬데믹은 전 세계적으로 약 7,600만 건의 불안증과 5,300만 건의 우울증을 유발하는 등 전 세계 정신건강에 큰 영향을 미쳤다고 합니다. 이러한 정신건강 장애의 놀라운 증가는 팬데믹의 사회적, 경제적, 건강 관련 혼란과 관련된 몇 가지 요인에 기인합니다. 이러한 모든 요인들이 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장에 대한 수요를 창출하고 있습니다.
또한, 업계 주요 기업들은 이러한 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장의 성장을 촉진할 수 있는 제품을 출시하거나 투자하고 있습니다. 예를 들어, Limbic Inc.는 2023년 1월 심리 치료의 효율성과 효과를 높이기 위해 설계된 혁신적인 정신건강 평가 도구인 'Limbic Access'를 발표했으며, AI 기반 챗봇인 Limbic Access는 정신건강 지원을 원하는 개인에게 안전하고 임상적으로 효과적이며 위험 관리된 지원을 제공합니다. 안전하고, 임상적으로 효과적이며, 리스크 관리된 지원을 제공하는 데 초점을 맞춘 AI 기반 챗봇입니다.
또한, 2023년 10월 BeMeHealth는 성장과 확장을 위한 새로운 전략적 투자자를 발표했습니다. 이번 투자를 통해 BeMeHealth는 정신건강 관리를 개선하기 위해 더 많은 첨단 기술과 서비스를 도입하고 서비스를 강화할 수 있게 될 것으로 보입니다. 자본의 유입으로 BeMeHealth는 새로운 기능을 개발하거나 서비스가 부족한 시장에 진출하여 정신건강 관리 제공에 대한 영향력을 높일 수 있을 것으로 보입니다. 이러한 모든 요인들이 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장에 대한 수요를 창출하고 있습니다.
또한, 디지털 헬스 플랫폼과의 통합은 전 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장의 확대에 기여하고 있습니다.
개인 정보 보호 및 데이터 보안에 대한 우려
개인 정보 보호 및 데이터 보안에 대한 우려는 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장의 성장을 저해하는 요인으로 작용합니다.
정신건강 챗봇은 정신건강 상태, 감정 상태, 개인 이력 등 민감한 개인 정보 공개를 요청하는 경우가 많습니다. 이러한 데이터는 사적인 정보이기 때문에 사용자들은 이러한 정보가 유출되거나 악용될 수 있다는 두려움을 가질 수 있습니다. 이러한 정보 공유에 따른 취약성은 프라이버시를 둘러싼 이해관계를 증가시킵니다.
평판이 좋은 챗봇 제공업체들이 강력한 보안 조치를 시행하고 있음에도 불구하고, 데이터 유출의 위험은 여전히 큰 우려의 대상이 되고 있습니다. 사이버 보안 위협이 확산되고 있으며, 해킹이나 무단 액세스를 통해 기밀 데이터가 유출될 수 있습니다. 이러한 침해는 개인정보 유출로 인한 정신적 고통과 잠재적 낙인 등 사용자에게 심각한 영향을 미칠 수 있습니다.
2024년 A Vinove Company의 데이터에 따르면, AI 챗봇을 통해 기밀성이 높은 정신건강 정보를 다룰 때 프라이버시에 대한 심각한 우려가 발생한다고 합니다. 모든 상호 작용이 암호화되어 안전하게 저장되고 GDPR 및 HIPAA와 같은 규정을 준수하는 것이 필수적입니다. 챗봇은 지원을 제공하는 데 매우 효과적이지만, 인간의 복잡한 감정을 완전히 파악하는 데 어려움을 겪는 경우가 많습니다. 이러한 한계는 더 복잡한 상황에서 오해를 불러일으키거나 불충분한 응답을 초래할 수 있습니다.
대부분의 정신건강 챗봇은 사용자 데이터가 어떻게 수집, 저장, 활용되는지 알려주지 않습니다. 사용자는 자신의 데이터가 광고주나 의료 보험사와 같은 제3자와 공유되는지 여부를 알지 못할 수 있습니다. 이러한 투명성 부족은 개인이 자신의 정보가 어떻게 처리되는지, 그리고 그것이 기밀 유지에 대한 기대에 부합하는지에 대해 걱정할 수 있기 때문에 이러한 플랫폼에 대한 신뢰를 떨어뜨릴 수 있습니다.
이러한 요인들은 세계 정신건강 및 테라피용 챗봇 시장의 잠재적 성장을 제한하는 요인이 될 수 있습니다.
Overview
The global chatbots for mental health and therapy market reached US$ 1.10 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 1.76 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period 2024-2031.
Therapy chatbots, also referred to as mental health chatbots, are advanced conversational AI systems designed to assist individuals in managing their mental well-being. These chatbots leverage technologies such as natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning to engage users in meaningful conversations, assess their mental health status, and provide personalized coping strategies or resources. They can be accessed through various platforms, including mobile applications, websites, and messaging apps.
Chatbots for mental health and therapy are AI-driven tools designed to simulate human-like conversations, providing psychological support and resources to users. These chatbots incorporate evidence-based therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to assist individuals in managing their mental health. By offering immediate responses and support, they serve as accessible first points of contact for those seeking help, especially in areas where traditional mental health services may be limited or stigmatized. These factors have driven the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market expansion.
Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints
Increasing Demand for Accessible Mental Health Services
The increasing demand for accessible mental health services is significantly driving the growth of the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market and is expected to drive throughout the market forecast period.
The pandemic has profoundly affected global mental health, resulting in a 25% increase in anxiety and depression rates worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). The isolation, fear of illness, financial instability, and grief experienced during this time have exacerbated existing mental health issues and introduced new ones.
Traditional mental health services often encounter significant obstacles, such as long wait times for appointments, limited availability of professionals, and geographic constraints. Many individuals are discouraged from seeking help due to these challenges. Chatbots offer a viable alternative by providing immediate support and resources at any time.
Furthermore, key players in the industry research studies that would drive the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market growth.For instnace, in January 2023, a significant study was published that highlighted the effectiveness of Limbic Access, an AI-powered mental health assessment tool developed by Limbic Inc. This research involved 129,400 patients across 28 NHS Talking Therapies services in England and demonstrated that the use of AI can significantly enhance access to mental health support, particularly for underrepresented groups. The study found a remarkable 179% increase in access to mental health support among non-binary individuals. There was also a 29% increase in access among ethnic minority groups. This indicates that Limbic Access effectively reached demographics that have historically faced barriers to accessing mental health services.
Similarly, according to a publication in The Lancet in October 2021, the pandemic had a profound impact on global mental health, triggering approximately 76 million cases of anxiety and 53 million cases of depression worldwide. This staggering increase in mental health disorders can be attributed to several factors associated with the pandemic's social, economic, and health-related disruptions. All these factors demand the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
Additionally, key players in the industry product launches and investments that would drive these global chatbots for mental health and therapy market growth. For instance, in January 2023, Limbic Inc. launched Limbic Access, an innovative mental health assessment tool designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of psychological therapies. Limbic Access is an AI-powered chatbot that focuses on providing secure, clinically effective, and risk-managed support for individuals seeking mental health assistance.
Also, in October 2023, BeMeHealth announced a new strategic investor that will support its growth and expansion efforts. The investment will enable BeMeHealth to enhance its offerings, likely incorporating more advanced technologies or services aimed at improving mental health care. The influx of capital may allow BeMeHealth to develop new features or expand its reach into underserved markets, thereby increasing its impact on mental health care delivery. All these factors demand the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
Moreover, the Integration with Digital Health Platforms contributes to the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market expansion.
Privacy and Data Security Concerns
The privacy and data security concerns will hinder the growth of the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
Mental health chatbots often require users to disclose sensitive personal information, such as details about their mental health conditions, emotional states, and personal histories. Given the private nature of this data, users may fear that it could be exposed or misused. The vulnerability associated with sharing such information increases the stakes surrounding privacy.
Despite the implementation of strong security measures by reputable chatbot providers, the risk of data breaches remains a major concern. Cybersecurity threats are widespread, and sensitive data could potentially be compromised through hacking or unauthorized access. Such breaches can lead to severe repercussions for users, including emotional distress and potential stigma if their private information is made public.
According to the A Vinove Company data in 2024, stated that when dealing with sensitive mental health information through AI chatbots, significant privacy concerns arise. It is essential to ensure that all interactions are encrypted and securely stored, as well as compliant with regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA. Although chatbots can be very effective in offering support, they often struggle to grasp the full complexity of human emotions. This limitation can result in misunderstandings or inadequate responses in more complicated situations.
Many mental health chatbots do not communicate how user data is collected, stored, or utilized. Users may be unaware if their data is shared with third parties, such as advertisers or health insurance companies. This lack of transparency can undermine trust in these platforms, as individuals may worry about how their information is handled and whether it aligns with their expectations for confidentiality.
Thus, the above factors could be limiting the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market's potential growth.
The global chatbots for mental health and therapy market is segmented based on technology, component, application, and region.
The natural language processing (NLP) segment is expected to dominate the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market share
The natural language processing (NLP) segment holds a major portion of the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market share and is expected to continue to hold a significant portion of the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market share during the forecast period.
Natural Language Processing (NLP) equips chatbots with the ability to analyze and interpret the complexities of human language, allowing for more natural and empathetic conversations. This capability is vital for fostering a supportive environment where users feel heard and validated. By incorporating sentiment analysis, chatbots can assess the emotional tone of user interactions. This functionality enables them to respond appropriately, offering empathy and customized support based on the user's emotional state, which is crucial in mental health scenarios.
According to the Springer Nature research publication in October 2023, neuropsychiatric disorders impose a significant societal burden, but their treatment is complicated by the absence of objective outcomes and fidelity metrics. Artificial intelligence technologies, particularly Natural Language Processing (NLP), have emerged as valuable tools for analyzing mental health interventions (MHI) by examining the conversations that comprise them.
Natural Language Processing (NLP) enhances a chatbot's ability to maintain contextual awareness throughout interactions. By recalling previous conversations and referencing them, chatbots can offer more personalized and relevant assistance over time, thereby improving user engagement and satisfaction. The application of NLP allows chatbots to tailor responses according to individual user preferences and needs. This personalization may involve adjusting the communication style or providing specific mental health resources that resonate with the user's situation.
The integration of machine learning models with NLP enables chatbots to continually refine their responses based on user interactions and feedback. This ongoing learning process enhances the chatbot's adaptability to changing language patterns and individual user requirements. These factors have solidified the segment's position in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
North America is expected to hold a significant position in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market share
North America holds a substantial position in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market and is expected to hold most of the market share.
The region has a considerable number of individuals suffering from mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders. This widespread prevalence creates a robust demand for accessible mental health services, driving the adoption of innovative solutions like chatbots.
North America features a well-established healthcare infrastructure that supports the integration of digital health technologies. The availability of advanced technological resources facilitates the effective deployment of AI-driven solutions, including chatbots, making them more efficient and widely accessible.
There is a strong focus on leveraging technology to enhance mental health care delivery in North America. Companies are investing significantly in developing sophisticated chatbots that utilize advanced Natural Language Processing (NLP) and machine learning techniques to improve user interactions and therapeutic outcomes.
Furthermore, in this region, a major number of key players' presence, government initiatives & regulatory support, and product launches would propel these global chatbots for mental health and therapy market growth. For instance, in November 2024, Jimini Health, a digital health startup, launched its services with $8 million in pre-seed funding aimed at transforming mental healthcare through a unique clinician-led therapy model augmented by responsible artificial intelligence (AI). The funding round saw participation from notable investors including Zetta Venture Partners, LionBird, PsyMed, BoxGroup, Arkitekt Ventures, and SCB.
Also, in March 2023, Botpress, launched the industry's first visual builder tool that enables users to create advanced chatbots capable of executing complex workflows on top of ChatGPT in just a matter of minutes in Canada. This innovation is designed to democratize chatbot creation, making it accessible to a wider range of users, including those without extensive programming knowledge. Users can develop customized personal assistants, educational bots, coding assistants, social service hotlines, mental health support bots, smart email responders, and life coaching guides.
Thus, the above factors are consolidating the region's position as a dominant force in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
Asia Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market share
Asia Pacific holds the fastest pace in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market and is expected to hold most of the market share.
In Asia-Pacific region is experiencing an increase in mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders. This growing prevalence creates a strong demand for accessible mental health services, which chatbots can effectively provide.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) research publication in July 2023, in India, mental health disorders are highly prevalent, affecting a significant portion of the population. Epidemiological studies indicate that the prevalence rates for psychiatric disorders range from 9.5 to 370 per 1,000 individuals. This wide range reflects the diverse challenges faced by individuals in the country. The high prevalence of mental health disorders underscores the urgent need for effective interventions and support systems to enhance the mental well-being of the population. Commonly observed conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
Rapid urbanization in countries such as China and India is leading to lifestyle changes that often contribute to heightened stress and mental health challenges. As urban populations expand, there is a corresponding rise in the demand for convenient mental health solutions like chatbots. The proliferation of smartphones and internet connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region facilitates the use of digital health solutions. Chatbots, accessible via mobile devices, are becoming increasingly popular among individuals seeking immediate mental health support.
Furthermore, in this region, key player's initiatives, such as partnerships & collaborations, and product launches would drive the global healthcare chatbots market growth. For instance, in June 2023, the Osmania Technology Business Incubator (OTBI) in collaboration with Findhope, took place at Osmania University. This event provided a unique platform for students to engage in discussions centered around mental well-being and contribute innovative ideas aimed at enhancing Findhope's AI WhatsApp chatbot.
Also, in April 2024, Wysa, launched a Hindi version of its conversational AI therapy app, aiming to enhance the accessibility of quality mental health services in underserved communities across India, particularly in Tier II and III cities. This initiative addresses significant barriers to mental health care in regions where access to traditional therapy is limited.
Similarly, in July 2023, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) launched India's first Tele-MANAS chatbot, designed to provide immediate support for individuals in mental distress. This initiative aims to enhance mental health services in the region by ensuring round-the-clock access to health counselors, clinical psychologists, and consultants.
Also, in April 2024, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) launched an AI chatbot aimed at providing mental health support to the youth in Hong Kong, particularly in response to the increasing demand for mental health services and the growing complexity of cases among students. This initiative is part of the Jockey Club TourHeart+ project, which has been enhanced by a donation from the Hong Kong Jockey Club.
Thus, the above factors are consolidating the region's position as the fastest-growing force in the global chatbots for mental health and therapy market.
The major global players in the chatbots for mental health and therapy market include Woebot Health, Wysa Ltd, Youper Inc., X2ai Inc., Quartet Health, Headspace Health, Marigold Health, BioBeats, Lyra Health, Inc., and Limbic among others.
The global chatbots for mental health and therapy market report delivers a detailed analysis with 60+ key tables, more than 50 visually impactful figures, and 176 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.