In a world where mental-health issues among youth are becoming increasingly prevalent, Lenovo is spearheading a ground-breaking, world-first social experiment under the Work For Humankind project. Titled “Meet Your Digital Self,” this latest evolution highlights the role that smarter technology and AI can play in assisting professionals in addressing the rising mental health challenges faced by youth. By embracing Lenovo’s vision of creating a more connected and compassionate world, Lenovo 360 partners can demonstrate their dedication to social responsibility and help tackle the mental health issues affecting young people today.

The “Meet Your Digital Self” experiment aims to tackle the challenges young individuals encounter in balancing their real-life interactions with their online presence. In a recent survey, two-thirds (67%) of Gen Z feel a disconnect between their offline and online identities, leading to feelings of loneliness and anxiety. Additionally, almost half (49%) of Gen Z individuals find it easier to express themselves online than in person. In contrast, 60 percent express a desire for more meaningful conversations with family members and friends in real life.

AI Avatars for Mental Health Support

By harnessing the full potential of AI across its range of devices, such as smartphones, PCs, and cloud services, Lenovo brings two Gen Z participants’ digital personas to life as interactive, 3D avatars capable of having a real, human moment: a chat with a loved one. The digital counterparts of the two individuals were crafted by combining data from their various social media, blog, and forum accounts with their permission. The 3D avatars not only mirrored the appearance of each participant but were designed to interact in real-time conversations – adjusting their tones, movements, and facial expressions based on the ongoing discussion. This was achieved by training the avatars using data sourced directly from each individual’s online persona.

This innovative approach highlights the disconnect many Gen Z members experience between their online personas and real-life interactions and offers a platform for deeper self-expression and mutual understanding.

Text for Help: Emotional Support Hotline

For mental health support, Lenovo has collaborated with multiple organizations to provide a free, confidential text messaging service available 24/7. Individuals struggling to reconcile their virtual and physical identities or seeking advice on connecting with someone close to them can reach out to Shout (UK), Crisis Text Line (US), or Anata no Ibasho (Japan).

Please visit lenovowfh.com to learn more about the Work for Humankind initiative and discover how intelligent technology and AI are being utilized for positive purposes and bringing smarter technology for all.