Core Insights - Planet Green Holdings Corp. announced an initiative through its subsidiary Fast Approach Inc. to develop AI-driven conversational agents aimed at early-stage intervention for anxiety and depression among adolescents [1][2] Industry Context - The initiative addresses a significant youth mental health crisis in Canada, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, with nearly 1 in 3 Canadian teenagers experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression [2] - Long wait times and limited access to qualified mental health professionals have left many adolescents without adequate support [2] Project Features - Fast Approach's AI systems are designed to engage in safe, supportive, and empathetic conversations, targeting users in early stages of mental distress who are not yet receiving formal therapy [3] - The project is not intended to replace human therapists but to serve as a bridge for young people struggling with mental health issues [5] - The company is collaborating with Canadian healthcare partners, school boards, and nonprofit organizations to pilot the solution in select provinces later this year [5] Technical Aspects - The AI dialogue systems are based on large language models trained to understand and reflect emotional states, respond supportively, and foster trust in conversation [8] - All models are co-designed and validated with input from licensed therapists, guided by evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) [8] - Special attention is given to language, tone, and concerns relevant to teenagers and young adults navigating mental health challenges in a post-pandemic world [8] - Ethical safeguards include built-in escalation protocols, privacy protections, and human-in-the-loop supervision to prevent misuse or harm [8]