AI Companions to Address Student Loneliness
UNSW Sydney has unveiled AI companions designed to help students combat loneliness and improve mental health. On 16th April, the AI prototypes, named Tom and Mia, were introduced. These digital companions can communicate in both English and Mandarin, making them accessible to a diverse student population.
A research team led by Scientia Professor Jill Bennett developed the AI companions as part of the Big Anxiety Research Centre’s efforts to address mental health challenges. Designed for students facing language barriers and isolation, the initiative provides a digital outlet for emotional expression and regulation.
Students have the opportunity to engage in conversations with Tom and Mia that resemble interactions with a friend, helping them process difficult feelings. “The AI companions don’t replace a professional therapist,” Professor Bennett explained. “But if you’re feeling down and depressed, our goal is for them to be able to have a relatively skilled conversation, the kind you might have with a friend, attuned to your situation.”
Supporting Mental Health with Technology
Part of a larger initiative, the AI companions aim to create digital support tools for various groups, including aged care residents and people with neurodegenerative conditions. Designed to be relatable and engaging, these tools offer companionship through screen-based interaction.
Input from students facing these challenges was integral to the design process. Emphasizing this, Professor Bennett stated, “Our characters are co-designed by the communities who use them,” ensuring the AI is both relatable and effective for its users.
The launch of Tom and Mia coincided with a festival on loneliness organized by the Big Anxiety Research Centre, where these AI prototypes were showcased. This festival is part of ongoing efforts to integrate technology into mental health support.
Recognised as a critical public health issue, addressing loneliness impacts not only mental but also physical health and longevity. The quality of social interactions plays a significant role in how loneliness is experienced, making initiatives like these AI companions vital for improving student wellbeing.
Expertise from various fields, including psychosocial studies, design, computer science, and AI, is combined by the research team at UNSW. Collaborating with other specialists and clinicians at UNSW helps them manage risks and ensure that the AI responses are appropriate and helpful.
According to Professor Bennett, “We are training these AI companions to be relatable, fun to talk with and play the role of a friend able to offer psychosocial support.” This approach ensures that students have access to immediate support tailored to their needs.
Last updated: 16 April 2026, 5:34 pm
