CompletedNANCT06992180

The Intervention Effect of Generative Artificial Intelligence (Emohaa) and Individual Psychological Counseling on Emotional Distress in Young Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor: Central University of Finance and Economics, China

Trial Details

Condition	Depression, Anxiety
Intervention	Generative Artificial Intelligence Intervention; Individual Psychological Counseling
Phase	NA
Status	Completed
Participants	222
Est. Completion	30 Aug 2025
Last Updated	28 May 2026

Primary Outcome

Depression; Anxiety

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

Inclusion Criteria: * Age ranges from 15 to 30 * Suffering from emotional distress (PHQ-9 \> 14 or GAD-7 \> 12) * Ability to use the mobile phone to interact with AI * Consent to participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * High risk of self-injury and suicide * Presence of psychotic symptoms (i.e., delusions) * Serious substance use problems * Other mental or physical illnesses requiring urgent medical assistance * Received other psychological or pharmacological interventions in the last month.

Trial Sites

Countries

China

View Registry Entry

Related Analysis

Completed RCT Compares AI Chatbot vs Traditional Counselling for Depression and Anxiety in Young Adults — Clinical Implications for Digital Mental Health

A completed RCT of 222 young adults compared an AI chatbot (Emohaa) to traditional counselling for treating depression and anxiety. Results could reshape digital mental health delivery and inform clinical practice guidelines.

Read full article →

This content is for educational purposes for healthcare professionals only and does not constitute clinical advice. Clinical decisions should be based on individual patient assessment, current guidelines, and appropriate specialist consultation. Editorial Standards · Privacy Policy · Terms of Service