How to Use AI to Combat Loneliness – MUO – MakeUseOf
Explore these AI chatbots and tools that can help you reduce feelings of loneliness, practice social skills, and more.
Remember when Siri first launched and you chatted with it just because you could, or you asked your friend's Google speaker to tell you a joke? While you might not have found the punchline very funny, new AI tools have a little more to offer in the companionship department.
With the increasing sophistication of AI, the lines between human and machine interactions are getting blurrier—so far in a cool, futuristic way, not a creepy sci-fi movie way. So, if you've ever been lonely (who hasn't?) in this hyper-connected world, AI technology might just have a quirky, innovative solution for that.
Let's dive into the world of AI companions, explore a little about how they work, and see how easily you can integrate them into your life to ward off feelings of loneliness.
Woebot is a chatbot that can help you deal with mental health issues. It's like having a digital therapist in your pocket.
But don't mistake it for just a simple chatbot. Harnessing the power of natural language processing (NLP) and scientific research, it's programmed to get to know you. It's like that friend who always asks, "How was your day?" and genuinely wants to know, making every chat a potential therapy session.
Download: Woebot for Android | iOS (Free)
Here are step-by-step instructions for how to use Woebot:
When it comes to combating loneliness, Woebot encourages you to track your mood, fostering self-discovery. The goal is to inspire daily habits of self-reflection that can lead to improved well-being.
As you explore this web-based application, you might bump into Abraham Lincoln or Marilyn Monroe. Using the Character.ai web app lets you beat loneliness by chit-chatting with fictional stars, historical heavyweights, or even the most popular celebrities (digital versions, of course).
Here are step-by-step instructions for how to use character.ai:
Many people already use AI smart assistants like Siri or Alexa for carrying out simple tasks. But being able to have a virtual AI companion and chat with them as you do with your friends is next-level.
EVA AI is a virtual AI partner that listens, responds, and tries to appreciate you! By using this app you can kill boredom and practice intimacy with a virtual AI partner. Here are the step-by-step instructions for using EVA AI:
Overall, EVA AI is an app that allows you to pass time practicing the skills needed to establish and grow a relationship with a virtual AI partner who listens, responds, and is programmed to appreciate you.
It is a neat app if you're looking to combat loneliness, improve mental health, explore various thoughts and emotions, or simply have a fun and engaging chat with a friendly AI companion.
Download: EVA AI for Android | iOS (Free, premium versions available)
The next time you're introspecting at 3 a.m., and all your humans are catching their Z's, these digital buddies might just offer the company you're seeking.
Of course, these are just some of the many online AI chat companions. Others include Chai, which allows you to build and deploy your own chatbot, Kuki, which can play games like Tic-Tac-Tie, and Anima, which allows you to set the name and pronouns and adjust its personality traits.
If, however, you tire of digital solutions, there are of course many ways to connect with real people and combat loneliness!
Engaging with AI for some digital camaraderie can be a cool experience. But before you spill your heart to your new chatbot buddy, remember a few important points.
First, like keeping your guilty-pleasure artists secret (Justin Bieber, am I right?), it's a good idea to anonymize your information with AI. Sure, many platforms guard user privacy, but why take the chance?
AI companions are fabulous, but nothing beats human warmth. You'll likely need both to stay grounded. After all, no AI can replicate the joy of a friend's poorly-timed dad joke.
Lastly, AI operates based on algorithms and doesn't possess genuine emotions. Overdependence on AI for emotional support can actually lead to increased feelings of loneliness and disconnect from real human interactions. So, try your best to balance the time you spend chatting with AI with the time you spend chatting with real people.
The world of AI offers prospects for those seeking connection in a digital age. Whether you're befriending a historical figure via Character.ai or pouring out your latest woes to Woebot, these tools can provide comfort in times of solitude.
But remember, keep a balanced foot in both the AI and human worlds. Protect your data, cherish human connections, and approach AI with both curiosity and caution.
Sean is a long-time tech-enthusiast and early adopter who enjoys keeping up with the latest technological advances. He focuses on exploring how tech such as wearables and AI are impacting people’s health and wellbeing. He has a master’s degree and, before writing for MakeUseOf, spent time as a technology instructor. He’s been writing about technology for over 10 years. When he’s not at his standing desk, you’ll find him on the volleyball court or on a mountain.
