Russia Launches Chatbot to Provide Mental Health Support for Teens

A new digital service called 'I Am Nearby' is being rolled out in Russia to offer teenagers anonymous psychological assistance. Early trials show promising results among young users.

In the Belgorod region, preparations are underway for the official launch of an innovative youth support platform. The chatbot 'I Am Nearby' is designed to answer teens’ questions and provide psychological guidance. The platform ensures complete anonymity, a crucial factor when dealing with sensitive issues.

Pilot testing in a local health resort showed strong results: hundreds of children aged 11 to 17 reported that the interface was easy to use and the information was helpful.

Developers fixed the shortcomings identified during testing by adding more visual content and expanding the database of answers to relevant questions. The chatbot will become widely available to teenagers in September, with plans to distribute QR codes in schools and extracurricular institutions for quick access.

Technology is increasingly being used to support mental well-being in Russia. Specialists now immerse patients in virtual reality environments designed to calm and relax them, showing natural landscapes, outer space, or ocean views.

Russian clinics also use VR headsets during biomaterial collection and children’s vaccinations, helping reduce stress and minimize discomfort during medical procedures.