Address on "Deepening Scientific Research on 5G Use Cases for Solving Societal Challenges: AI in Mental Health Awareness Campaign" in the ECE Department

 

Date: Friday 7th February 2025: Venue: ECE Department, Time: 10.30 am to 12.30 pm

AMTRON GUWAHATI sponsored awareness programme was organized by the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering on 7th February 2025 from 10.30 to 12.30 pm. I as a head of the department delivered the address on the topic of "Deepening Scientific Research on 5G Use Cases for Solving Societal Challenges: AI in Mental Health Awareness Campaign" before start of the talk by the resource persons who came from Infiheal company. 

 Address on "Deepening Scientific Research on 5G Use Cases for Solving Societal Challenges: AI in Mental Health Awareness Campaign" by Prof. Subhash C. Arya

Good morning,

It is a privilege to be here today as the Head of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering to discuss an emerging and significant topic: Deepening Scientific Research on 5G Use Cases for Solving Societal Challenges, with a Special Focus on AI in Mental Health Awareness Campaigns. I extend my sincere appreciation to Amtron Guwahati for organizing this workshop, bringing together academicians, researchers, and students to explore how advanced technologies can contribute to societal well-being.

5G and AI: A Synergy for Societal Transformation

5G is not just a communication technology; it is a catalyst for digital transformation. With ultra-low latency (as low as 1 millisecond), high-speed data rates (up to 10 Gbps), and massive connectivity (up to 1 million devices per square kilometer), 5G serves as the backbone for cutting-edge applications. One of the most promising areas where 5G and Artificial Intelligence (AI) can make a difference is in mental health awareness and support systems.

The Growing Concern of Mental Health Issues

In recent years, mental health challenges have become more prevalent, affecting individuals across all age groups. According to WHO, depression is projected to be the leading cause of disability by 2030. However, accessibility to mental health professionals remains a challenge, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This is where AI and 5G can bridge the gap by providing real-time mental health support and interventions.

How 5G and AI Can Revolutionize Mental Health Awareness

1. AI-Powered Chatbots and Virtual Therapists
• AI-driven chatbots can offer 24/7 mental health support, identifying distress signals through natural language processing (NLP).
• With 5G’s low latency, responses are instantaneous, creating a seamless interaction for individuals seeking help.
2. Remote Mental Health Monitoring through Wearable Devices
• 5G-enabled smartwatches and biosensors can continuously monitor stress levels, heart rate variability, and sleep patterns.
• AI algorithms analyze this data in real-time, detecting early signs of anxiety or depression.
3. Telepsychiatry and Virtual Counseling
• High-resolution video consultations with psychologists and counselors are now possible even in low-network areas.
• AI can assist mental health professionals by providing predictive analysis based on a patient’s history.
4. AI-Based Sentiment Analysis on Social Media
• By leveraging machine learning, AI can scan social media posts to detect individuals at risk and offer early intervention.
5. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Therapies
• With 5G’s high data transfer rates, VR-based therapy for conditions like PTSD and phobias becomes more effective.

Challenges and Research Opportunities

While the possibilities are vast, several technical and ethical challenges must be addressed:

• Data Privacy & Security: Ensuring that sensitive mental health data is securely transmitted and stored.
• Bias in AI Models: AI algorithms must be inclusive and unbiased to avoid misdiagnosis.
• Affordability & Accessibility: Ensuring that 5G-based mental health solutions are affordable and available to marginalized communities.

Researchers and students can work on developing AI models tailored for diverse populations, optimizing bandwidth usage for telemedicine, and enhancing cybersecurity protocols for sensitive data.

Conclusion

The intersection of 5G and AI holds transformative potential in addressing mental health challenges. As researchers, academicians, and future innovators, we have a responsibility to develop scalable, secure, and inclusive solutions that leverage these technologies for societal well-being. Let us use this workshop as a platform to collaborate, innovate, and drive impactful research in this critical domain.

Thank you.

After inagural talk, the resource person have addressed the audience.

Speakers talk about the AI chatbot namely "Healo: AI Therapist Chatbot" developed by Infiheal Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. All three speakers were trained psychologists.