Chapter 112: AI Get Well

A New Path to Mental Wellness with AI

First off, this image really cracked me up.

AI is still a little bizarre when it creates images.

So I thought you might think its funny too. 😂

I don't think therapists will ever look that derpy.

TGIF, all.

Let’s get real for a moment—mental health is something we all need to care for, yet it’s often the hardest thing to prioritize.

Whether it’s finding time, knowing where to start, or overcoming the stigma around asking for help, the barriers can feel overwhelming.

That’s where AI comes in as an approachable and accessible tool.

From mindfulness apps to mood trackers and even virtual support, AI offers new ways to take charge of your mental health.

Think of it as a stepping stone—something to help you build healthy habits, track your progress, and find the resources you need.

Plus, some people really are more likely to open up to AI than another human.

Sometimes they can help.

At least to start with.

HOW?

1. Mood Tracking and Awareness: AI apps can help you track your moods over time, providing insights into patterns and triggers. By identifying what impacts your mental state, you can make informed changes to improve your well-being.
2. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Guided meditations, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques powered by AI can help reduce stress and build mindfulness. Many apps even personalize these practices to suit your preferences and goals.
3. Daily Check-Ins and Journaling: AI journaling tools encourage reflection by guiding you with prompts or tracking your progress over time. They make it easier to process your thoughts and emotions in a structured way.
4. Virtual Support and Counseling: AI-powered chatbots can offer conversational support, simulating the experience of talking to a friend or mentor. While they’re not a replacement for therapy, they can be a helpful resource when you need immediate support.
5. Goal Setting and Habit Building: Want to build a healthier routine? AI can help you set realistic mental health goals and create habits that stick, like practicing gratitude or maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.

TRUE STORY

Let’s meet my cousin Silvio, who had been feeling overwhelmed and disconnected after a challenging year. Unsure where to start, Silvio downloaded an AI-powered mindfulness app to try guided breathing exercises. Within minutes, he felt calmer and more focused. Which is tough for someone in my family, believe me.

Encouraged by the results, he began using a mood tracker to log daily emotions and identify patterns. When stress levels peaked, the app suggested short mindfulness practices tailored to Silvio's schedule. Over time, he noticed a significant improvement in both mood and stress management, all with the support of AI tools that fit seamlessly into daily life.

(Let's see if it lasts past the next time the family comes over) 😂

TOOLS YOU CAN USE

Here are some AI-powered tools to kickstart your mental health journey:

1. Mood Tracking:
   • Daylio (daylio.net): A mood tracker and micro-diary that helps identify emotional patterns.
   • Moodfit (getmoodfit.com): Tracks moods and offers personalized insights and exercises.
2. Mindfulness and Relaxation:
   • Headspace (headspace.com): Offers guided meditations and stress-reducing techniques.
   • Calm (calm.com): Provides mindfulness exercises and relaxation practices.
3. Journaling and Self-Reflection:
   • Day One Journal (dayoneapp.com): Encourages self-reflection with guided prompts and mood tracking.
   • Journey (journey.cloud): A digital journal with features like reminders and mood insights.
4. Virtual Support:
   • Woebot (woebothealth.com): An AI-powered chatbot designed to provide emotional support.
   • Wysa (wysa.io): Offers empathetic AI conversations and mental health exercises.
5. Habit Building and Goal Setting:
   • Fabulous (thefabulous.co): Helps build small habits for mental and emotional wellness.
   • Strides (stridesapp.com): Tracks progress on wellness-related goals.

LET'S AI CHAT

You: Hey, I’ve been feeling stressed lately and don’t know where to start with improving my mental health. Can you help?

AI: Absolutely! First, let me say it’s great that you’re taking a step toward prioritizing your mental health. Let’s break it down—would you like to focus on reducing stress, building mindfulness, or something else?

You: I think reducing stress is my main goal right now.

AI: That’s a great place to start. How about trying a quick breathing exercise? It can help you feel calmer in just a few minutes.

You: Sure, let’s try that.

AI: Okay, let’s start. Take a deep breath in for four counts...hold it for four counts...and then exhale slowly for six counts. Repeat this three times while focusing on the sensation of your breath.

You: That actually helped a bit. What else can I do to manage stress?

AI: You might find it helpful to set aside five minutes daily for mindfulness or journaling. I can suggest prompts to help you reflect on your day or guide you through short meditations. Would you like to try one?

You: Yes, I think journaling could work for me.

AI: Great! Let’s start with this question: “What’s one small thing that went well for you today?” Reflecting on positives, even small ones, can help shift your focus and reduce stress over time.

You: That’s simple enough. Thanks for the suggestion!

AI: You’re welcome! Remember, these small steps add up. I’m here to support you whenever you need guidance or just a little motivation.

WE GET BY WITH A LITTLE HELP

Your mental health journey doesn’t have to start with big changes. Focus on small, manageable steps that fit into your daily routine, like a five-minute meditation or a quick journal entry. The key is consistency—building habits that help you feel more balanced over time.

Be patient with yourself, and remember it’s okay to seek help if you need it. AI tools can provide a great starting point, but they’re not a substitute for professional support if you’re dealing with significant challenges. Prioritize what feels right for you, and celebrate the progress you make along the way.

TRY IT OUT

Taking the first step toward better mental health can feel daunting, but AI offers approachable tools to help you get started. From mood tracking and mindfulness exercises to journaling and virtual support, AI empowers you to build habits that promote well-being. Ready to take charge of your mental health? Let AI guide you toward a calmer, more balanced year.

GET BACK TO ME

What’s your first step in improving your mental health? I’d love to hear about your journey!

Let’s take on this year with clarity and calm.

Have a great weekend!

Ciao!

Leo Serrano, Editor, Fulfillment Fridays, 10xYOU​

Remember, you can always email me directly at leo@10xyou.us​

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