MindGuardian: AI Chatbot for Gen Z Mental Well-Being

Challenge Background

The rise of digital technology has revolutionised the way people interact, work, and entertain themselves. Among the most affected demographic groups are Generation Z (Gen Z), typically defined as individuals born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. This generation has grown up surrounded by digital devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, which have become integral to their daily lives. According to a report by Amin et al. (2020), Bangladesh has experienced a rapid increase in internet penetration, with a significant portion of the population accessing the internet via smartphones. This widespread availability of digital devices has led to extensive use among young people, including Gen Z.

In recent years, the pervasive use of digital devices among Generation Z (Gen Z) has raised concerns globally. Bangladesh, like many other countries, has witnessed a surge in digital device addiction (DDA) among its young population. This addiction has multifaceted repercussions, ranging from diminished academic performance to compromised mental well-being. Understanding the scope and consequences of DDA among Gen Z in Bangladesh is crucial for devising effective intervention strategies.

The Problem

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened levels of social isolation and reliance on digital technologies for communication and entertainment. Generation Z individuals in Bangladesh face significant challenges related to depression and overwhelming digital device use. Traditional mental health interventions may be inaccessible or stigmatised, exacerbating the problem. Mihelič et el. (2023) explores various factors contributing to cyberloafing behaviour among Generation Z (Gen Z) students and suggests several solutions to address this issue. There is a pressing need for innovative, accessible, and culturally sensitive solutions to support the mental well-being of Gen Z in Bangladesh.

Goal of the Project

• Develop comprehensive survey questionnaires to assess the perceptions, experiences, and preferences of Gen Z individuals regarding depression, digital device usage, and potential intervention strategies.
• Collect and analyse survey data to identify common themes, challenges, and preferences related to mental health and digital device management among Gen Z in Bangladesh.
• Utilise survey findings to inform the design and development of an AI-powered chatbot tailored to address the specific needs and preferences of Gen Z individuals in combating depression and device addiction. 
• Implement and evaluate the effectiveness of the chatbot in providing personalised support, guidance, and resources to Gen Z users, with a focus on improving mental well-being and promoting healthier digital habits.

Project Timeline

What you'll learn

• Comprehensive survey questionnaires provide valuable insights into the perceptions, experiences, and preferences of Gen Z individuals regarding depression and device addiction in Bangladesh.
•  Development and implementation of an AI-powered chatbot tailored to address the specific needs and preferences of Gen Z users, with the potential to provide accessible and personalized support for combating depression and device addiction.
• Improved awareness, engagement, and utilisation of mental health resources and support mechanisms among Gen Z individuals in Bangladesh, leading to enhanced mental well-being and healthier digital habits.