Systems, methods, and programs for mental healthcare

Abstract

To provide a mental care system that resolves mental health issues as early as possible, ideally before they become serious illnesses. [Solution] The present invention is a mental care system comprising: a reception unit that receives journaling input from a user; a storage device that stores the journaling input made by the user to the reception unit in chronological order in association with the user so that only the user can access it; and an AI diagnostic unit that uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state based on the journaling input stored in the storage device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for mental care, and particularly to a system, method, and program for mental care suitable for mental care for people belonging to organizations such as companies.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, as the shortage of human resources has become serious, preventing employees from leaving the company has become a social issue for companies. Especially in Japan, the number of resignations due to mental disorders is increasing.

[0003] To address such a situation, companies assign internal consultation sources such as supervisors and personnel staff, and external consultation sources such as industrial physicians and nurses.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0004]

Non-Patent Document 1

Non-Patent Document 2

Non-Patent Document 3

Non-Patent Document 4

[0005] However, because companies have performance evaluation systems, employees tend to fear that expressing their concerns will negatively impact their job assignments or salary increases. Even with the internal and external resources mentioned above, many employees do not speak their minds, and one survey found that approximately 80% of employees do not express their true feelings.

[0006] Furthermore, for those on the receiving end of consultations, such as supervisors and HR personnel, there is a growing tendency in recent years to be overly afraid of infringing on harassment charges, making it difficult to approach employees when it is unclear whether they are suffering from mental health issues or simply struggling with problems.

[0007] Thus, current measures to help people with mental health problems are largely ineffective and do not address the root cause of these problems. Consequently, there is an increasing number of cases, particularly among young people, where individuals are unable to process their emotions, resulting in serious mental health issues and, from the perspective of those around them, "suddenly" leaving their jobs.

[0008] However, having a system in place where one can honestly express worries and anxieties in a psychologically safe environment, without having to consult with someone who could identify them the moment they speak to them, such as a supervisor, HR manager, industrial physician, or public health nurse, would likely contribute to mental well-being.

[0009] This invention has been made in view of these circumstances, and aims to provide a system, method, and program for mental care that helps resolve mental health problems as early as possible, before they become serious illnesses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] A first aspect of the present invention for achieving the above objective is a mental care system comprising: a reception unit for receiving journaling input from a user; a storage device for storing the journaling input made by the user to the reception unit in chronological order in association with the user, so that only the user can access it; and an AI diagnostic unit that uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state based on the journaling input stored in the storage device.

[0011] A second aspect of the present invention is a mental care system of the first aspect, in which the AI ​​diagnostic unit notifies the user and the user's related parties of an alert according to the diagnostic results.

[0012] A third aspect of the present invention is a mental care system of the second aspect, in which the AI ​​diagnostic unit, when the result of the diagnosis is that the user has a mental disorder, determines appropriate persons related to the user according to the nature of the mental disorder and notifies the user and the determined persons of an alert.

[0013] A fourth aspect of the present invention is a mental care system of the third aspect, in which the AI ​​diagnostic unit plans an interview between the user and designated parties according to the nature of the mental distress, and requests the user and designated parties to conduct the interview.

[0014] A fifth aspect of the present invention is a mental care system of the fourth aspect, in which the planning of an interview includes setting the purpose of the interview and creating a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with the set purpose, and the AI ​​diagnostic unit provides the scenario to the designated parties when requesting the conduct of the interview.

[0015] The sixth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the fifth aspect, in which the AI diagnosis unit provides the determined relevant person with information for pre-training related to the scenario.

[0016] The seventh aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the sixth aspect, in which the information for pre-training is link information to related videos.

[0017] The eighth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the seventh aspect, in which the link information includes links to a plurality of related videos with different levels of detail.

[0018] The ninth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the fourth aspect, in which after the interview, the AI diagnosis unit conducts a questionnaire regarding the interview for the user and the determined relevant person, compares the questionnaire results of both, and evaluates the results of the interview.

[0019] The tenth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the fourth aspect, further comprising an effect comparison unit that compares the diagnosis results for the user made by the AI diagnosis unit in chronological order.

[0020] The eleventh aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the tenth aspect, in which the AI diagnosis unit evaluates the interview skills of the determined relevant person based on the change in the diagnosis results before and after the interview.

[0021] The twelfth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to the tenth aspect, in which the effect comparison unit calculates the proportion of users diagnosed with mental disorders among a plurality of users belonging to a predetermined organization, and creates display information for displaying the calculation results.

[0022] The thirteenth aspect of the present invention is the mental care system according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, in which the AI is an AI that has learned in accordance with the systems of psychology and counseling.

[0023] The 14th aspect of the present invention is a method for mental care that acquires journaling input from a user in a reception unit, stores the journaling input in a storage device in a time series while associating it with the user so that only the user can access it, and diagnoses the mental state of the user using AI based on the journaling input stored in the storage device.

[0024] The 15th aspect of the present invention is a program for causing a processor to realize functions of acquiring journaling input from a user in a reception unit, storing the journaling input in a storage device in a time series while associating it with the user so that only the user can access it, and diagnosing the mental state of the user using AI based on the journaling input stored in the storage device.

Effect of the Invention

[0025] According to the mental care system, method, and program of the present invention, by resolving mental disorders at the pre-disease stage as much as possible, it is possible to reduce the number of people who fall into severe mental disorders.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a mental care system to which a mental care method according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a state in which a mental care system and a plurality of user terminals are communicably connected to each other via a communication network. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of an input screen for journaling input. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram listing the functions of an AI diagnosis unit. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram exemplifying interview evaluation comments and advice for each of the interviewer and the interviewee. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the temporal change of the state of a user based on the diagnosis result of the user. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows a summary of the diagnostic results for the entire company. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation during user registration in the mental care system. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how journaling input to a mental care system works when it is temporarily saved. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation until the writing of journaling input is completed. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps involved in arranging an interview schedule. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process after scheduling an interview. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification and in each figure, elements similar to those described in previously shown figures are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions and redundant explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0028] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a mental care system to which the mental care method according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied.

[0029] The mental care system 10 is a system that aims to detect and resolve user A's mental health problems as early as possible, using journaling techniques, and as illustrated in Figure 1, it comprises a communication unit 11, a reception unit 12, a storage device 14, a template provision unit 15, an AI diagnosis unit 16, and an effect comparison unit 17.

[0030] The storage device 14 can be implemented using an SSD (Solid State Drive) or HDD (Hard Disk Drive), but it can also be implemented using a storage area located in the cloud. It stores a completed journaling input storage area 14a, a temporary storage area 14b, a password storage area 14c, an input screen storage area 14d, an interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e, a diagnostic result storage area 14f, and a visualization output storage area 14g. In Figure 1, these areas 14a to 14g are shown as being physically stored in a single storage device 14, but these areas 14a to 14g may each be physically located in multiple separate storage devices.

[0031] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing a mental care system and multiple user terminals connected to each other via a communication network, enabling them to communicate with one another.

[0032] As illustrated in Figure 2, the mental care system 10 can communicate with multiple user terminals 60 by connecting to a communication network 70, such as the Internet, via the communication unit 11.

[0033] On the other hand, user A must first register in order to use the mental care system 10. When registering, user A accesses the mental care system 10 from their user terminal 60, which is their PC or smartphone. The mental care system 10 then prompts user A to register ID information C and password D from the user terminal 60. In response, user A enters ID information C and password D from the user terminal 60. The entered ID information C and password D are encrypted and sent to the mental care system 10, received by the communication unit 11, and then sent from the communication unit 11 to the reception unit 12. The reception unit 12 decrypts the information, associates it with ID information C and password D, and stores it in the password storage area 14c of the storage device 14. This completes user registration.

[0034] Once user registration is complete, user A can log in to the mental care system 10 anytime they like by entering their ID information C and password D from user terminal 60.

[0035] When requesting to log in to the mental care system 10, user A accesses the mental care system 10 and enters their ID information C and password D from the user terminal 60. The entered ID information C and password D are encrypted and sent to the mental care system 10, received by the communication unit 11, and then sent from the communication unit 11 to the reception unit 12, where they are decrypted, and the reception unit 12 verifies whether the decrypted ID information C and password D pair is stored in the password storage area 14c of the storage device 14.

[0036] If the correct pair of decrypted ID information C and password D is stored in the password storage area 14c of the storage device 14, the mental care system 10 will allow the login; otherwise, it will not allow the login.

[0037] In the mental care system 10, if login is permitted, the template provision unit 15 then accesses the input screen storage area 14d. The input screen storage area 14d stores input screen information E, which is displayed on the user terminal 60 as an input screen for journaling input B.

[0038] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of such an input screen 20.

[0039] The template provider unit 15 obtains input screen information E from the input screen storage area 14d, encrypts it, and then sends it to the communication unit 11. The communication unit 11 sends this encrypted input screen information E back to the user terminal 60 that logged in via the communication network 70.

[0040] The encrypted input screen information E is expanded on the user terminal 60 from which the login originated and displayed as an input screen 20 as illustrated in Figure 3.

[0041] As illustrated in Figure 3, the input screen 20 includes an input window 21 for writing journaling input B, as well as a display of notes 22. Function buttons are also provided, including a back button 23, a save button 24, and a complete button 25.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 3, note 22 states, "The information you enter will not be made public to administrators or supervisors, but it will be shared with the AI. Do not enter confidential information such as customer information. Do not enter inappropriate content."

[0043] Input window 21 is a text input area for writing journaling input B. Input window 21 does not have fields for entering themes, for example, so as not to hinder user A's free writing. In the example shown in Figure 3, the maximum number of characters in one input window 21 is set to 3000, but this is just an example, and the maximum number of characters can be changed arbitrarily. Alternatively, there may be no maximum number of characters at all.

[0044] User A writes journaling input B into the input window 21 of the input screen 20 displayed on their user terminal 60 by operating the keyboard, mouse, etc., on the user terminal 60.

[0045] Journaling is a psychological technique that involves writing down whatever comes to mind and expressing one's feelings honestly and directly, thereby stabilizing one's emotions.

[0046] Journaling input B in this embodiment differs from mandatory inputs such as "daily reports" commonly found in companies. Instead, it is done only when each user wants to organize their thoughts or when they feel like it, and input is not mandatory.

[0047] As mentioned earlier, user A can freely write whatever comes to mind in journaling input B without having to decide on a specific theme. However, while they are getting used to writing, they may choose themes that interest them or that concern them, such as "Today's events," "Future goals," or "Things I'm grateful for."

[0048] When User A writes in input window 21, they can write whatever comes to mind without worrying about sentence structure, grammar, or typos. They can write both positive and negative emotions as they are.

[0049] As will be explained in more detail later, in the mental care system 10, the written journaling input B is reviewed by the AI ​​of the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 to determine the mental state of user A. The written journaling input B is managed by ID information C and password D, and can only be viewed by user A who made the entry, and is managed so that other users cannot view it.

[0050] In this way, the mental care system 10 provides an environment in which user A can confidently write their true feelings as journaling input B in the input window 21.

[0051] Generally, when user A writes journaling input B into input window 21, they can review what they have written and think about their emotions and thought patterns objectively and calmly. Therefore, simply by writing journaling input B, user A can experience effects such as stress reduction, deeper self-understanding, emotional organization, improved concentration, and new insights and discoveries.

[0052] User A can write journaling input B into input window 21 and save and register it in the mental care system 10. However, if user A is in the middle of writing or wants to rewrite it at another time, they can temporarily save it without registering it in the mental care system 10.

[0053] When user A wants to save and register journaling input B, which has been written to input window 21, to the mental care system 10, they select the complete button 25, for example, using the cursor or mouse on the user terminal 60. On the other hand, if they want to temporarily save without registering, they select the temporary save button 24. Also, if they want to go back to the previous page without registering or temporarily saving journaling input B, they select the back button 23.

[0054] If the complete button 25 is selected, the completed journaling input B (hereinafter referred to as "completed journaling input B") is encrypted along with user A's ID information C and completion flag information F indicating completion, and transmitted to the mental care system 10 via the communication network 70.

[0055] In the mental care system 10, the communication unit 11 receives the encrypted completed journaling input B, ID information C, and completion flag information F transmitted from the user terminal 60 and sends them to the reception unit 12.

[0056] The reception unit 12 decrypts the encrypted completed journaling input B, ID information C, and completion flag information F, and sends them to the storage device 14.

[0057] As mentioned above, the storage device 14 stores the completed journaling input storage area 14a. In Figure 1, only one completed journaling input storage area 14a is shown as an example, but since a completed journaling input storage area 14a is provided for each user, there are as many as there are registered users, and each is associated with the user's ID information C.

[0058] When the storage device 14 receives the completed journaling input B, ID information C, and completion flag information F from the reception unit 12, it stores the completed journaling input B in chronological order in the completed journaling input storage area 14a associated with the ID information C, based on the completion flag information F.

[0059] For example, if the ID information C and completed journaling input B sent from the reception unit 12 along with the completion flag information F are the ID information C1 and completed journaling input B1 from user A1, and there is no completed journaling input storage area 14a1 associated with ID information C1 in the storage device 14, the storage device 14 will create a new completed journaling input storage area 14a1 associated with ID information C1 and store this completed journaling input B1 in the completed journaling input storage area 14a1 as the first completed journaling input B.

[0060] On the other hand, if the storage device 14 already has a completed journaling input storage area 14a1 associated with ID information C1 and has past completed journaling inputs B stored therein, the storage device 14 stores the current completed journaling input B in this completed journaling input storage area 14a1, adding it after the most recently stored one. In this way, the storage device 14 stores completed journaling inputs B in chronological order in the completed journaling input storage area 14a1.

[0061] As mentioned above, the completed journaling input storage area 14a is managed by ID information for each user. Therefore, only user A, who is logged in with the ID information associated with the completed journaling input storage area 14a, can access the completed journaling input storage area 14a. Consequently, only user A can view the completed journaling input B stored in the completed journaling input storage area 14a.

[0062] Returning to the explanation in Figure 3, if the temporary save button 24 is selected, the incomplete journaling input B (hereinafter referred to as "incomplete journaling input B") that was written to the input window 21 when the temporary save button 24 was selected is encrypted along with user A's ID information C and temporary save flag information G indicating temporary saving, and transmitted to the mental care system 10 via the communication network 70.

[0063] In the mental care system 10, the communication unit 11 receives the encrypted incomplete journaling input B, ID information C, and temporary storage flag information G transmitted from the user terminal 60, and sends them to the reception unit 12.

[0064] The reception unit 12 decrypts the encrypted incomplete journaling input B, ID information C, and temporary storage flag information G, and sends them to the storage device 14.

[0065] As mentioned above, the storage device 14 stores the temporary storage area 14b. Although only one temporary storage area 14b is shown as an example in Figure 1, there is one temporary storage area 14b for each user, so there are as many as there are registered users, and each is associated with the user's ID information C.

[0066] When the storage device 14 receives the incomplete journaling input B, ID information C, and temporary storage flag information G from the reception unit 12, it stores the incomplete journaling input B in chronological order in the temporary storage area 14b associated with the ID information C, based on the temporary storage flag information G.

[0067] On the other hand, if there is no temporary storage area 14b associated with ID information C, the storage device 14 will create a new temporary storage area 14b associated with ID information C and store the incomplete journaling input B in this temporary storage area 14b.

[0068] The temporary storage area 14b, like the completed journaling input storage area 14a, is managed by ID information for each user. Therefore, only User A, who is logged in with the ID information associated with User A's temporary storage area 14b, can access User A's temporary storage area 14b and view, retrieve, and edit the incomplete journaling input B.

[0069] In this way, the mental care system 10 guarantees that neither completed journaling input B nor incomplete journaling input B can be viewed by anyone other than user A. Therefore, even when the mental care system 10 is used in a designated organization such as a company, it guarantees that neither completed journaling input B nor incomplete journaling input B can be viewed by user A's supervisor. As a result, the mental care system 10 provides user A with a sense of psychological security and creates an environment where user A can confidently express their true feelings in journaling input B.

[0070] User A can edit the incomplete journaling input B temporarily stored in User A's temporary storage area 14b, and once journaling input B is completed, by selecting the complete button 25, the completed journaling input B1 can be added chronologically to the completed journaling input storage area 14a, as described above.

[0071] Figure 4 is a diagram that lists the functions of the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16.

[0072] The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 plays a crucial role in the mental care system 10. Using AI that has learned in accordance with the systems of psychology and counseling, it implements functions such as a state diagnosis function, an alert notification function, a stakeholders determination function, an interview planning function, an interview preparation support function, an interview questionnaire function, and an interview effectiveness evaluation function, as shown in Figure 4.

[0073] The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 first uses AI to review the completed journaling input B stored in the completed journaling input storage area 14a of the memory device 14, and diagnoses the current mental state of user A.

[0074] The AI ​​can perform a diagnosis on journaling input B, which contains "true feelings" expressed by user A in a psychologically relaxed state of mind. Therefore, it can output a diagnosis that is closer to the truth than a superficial judgment like that of a stress check. The diagnosis results are not limited, but can be output for each category such as (1) physical condition, (2) mental condition, (3) work condition, and (4) emotions. The AI ​​diagnosis unit 16 stores these diagnosis results in a diagnosis result storage area 14f, which is associated with ID information C. In this way, the diagnosis results for each user are accumulated.

[0075] If the diagnostic result indicates a condition requiring attention, such as a mental health issue, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 can notify user A and those associated with user A of an alert.

[0076] For example, if the mental care system 10 is being used in a company, the people involved with User A would include, but are not limited to, User A's supervisor, HR personnel, industrial physician, and counselor.

[0077] The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 determines, based on the diagnostic results, which individuals related to user A should be notified of the alert. Alternatively, this information may be pre-configured in the mental care system 10.

[0078] If the diagnosis result is something that cannot be ignored, such as a serious mental health issue, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 further uses AI to plan an interview between user A and the designated stakeholders, and based on the plan, requests user A and the designated stakeholders to arrange and conduct the interview.

[0079] The planning includes setting the purpose of the interview and a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with the set purpose. However, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 does not notify the relevant parties of the detailed purpose of the interview, but instead provides a brief background that led to the request for the interview and a scenario for how to conduct the interview.

[0080] For example, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 provides relevant parties with a brief background, using a general expression such as, "User A seems a little depressed lately." Even though it is a general expression, it does not include keywords that are directly related to the content of journaling input B or keywords that could be associated with it. This is to ensure that the mental care system 10 is a system that cannot view other people's journaling input B.

[0081] Incidentally, the people involved with User A are not necessarily experienced in interviews, and some may have poor interview skills. Generally, a high level of interview effectiveness cannot be expected when an interviewer with poor interview skills conducts an interview. To compensate for this, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 provides the people involved with pre-learning information related to the scenario, such as links to several related videos, as an appendix to the interview procedure scenario. The link information includes links to multiple related videos with varying levels of detail. This allows the people involved to pre-learn by using the appropriate related video from among the provided related videos according to their knowledge.

[0082] Furthermore, the mental care system 10 can also provide user A with the necessary pre-interview learning information if required.

[0083] In this way, the mental care system 10 can also provide support to ensure effective consultations.

[0084] In response to a request for an interview from the mental care system 10, user A and the relevant parties can operate their respective user terminals 60 to arrange a mutually convenient time for the interview. The arranged interview schedule is registered in the scheduler software on each user terminal 60. As a result, on the day of the interview, notifications for the interview will be sent from the scheduler software on each user terminal 60 of user A and the relevant parties.

[0085] On the day of the meeting, the scheduling software on each of User A's and the relevant parties' user terminals (60) will notify them of the meeting. By accessing the link attached to this notification, User A and the relevant parties will conduct the meeting remotely.

[0086] After the interview, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 conducts a questionnaire about the interview with User A (the interviewer) and the interviewee (the relevant party), and then compares the results of both questionnaires to evaluate the outcome of the interview. Based on the evaluation, it then creates interview evaluation comments and advice for both the interviewer and the interviewee.

[0087] Figure 5 is an example of interview evaluation comments and advice given to both the interviewer and the interviewee.

[0088] In Figure 5, for illustrative purposes, the interview evaluation comments 101, interview advice for the interviewer 102, and interview advice for the interviewee 103 are displayed in a list. However, in reality, they are not displayed in this list. The interview evaluation comments 101 are not shown to the interviewer or the interviewee, but are shown to someone other than the interviewer and the interviewee, such as a company's human resources representative. The interview advice for the interviewer 102 is shown only to the interviewer, and the interview advice for the interviewee 103 is shown only to the interviewee.

[0089] User A continues to perform journaling input B after the interview.

[0090] The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 also continues, even after the interview, to review the completed journaling input B stored in the completed journaling input storage area 14a of user A using AI, diagnose user A's condition, and store the diagnostic results in the diagnostic result storage area 14f.

[0091] If the interview is effective and user A's mental health improves, the content of journal entry B after the interview should be more positive compared to the content of journal entry B before the interview. Conversely, if the interview is unsuccessful, the content of journal entry B after the interview should not change much compared to the content of journal entry B before the interview, or it may change to a more negative content, but it should not be more positive. Thus, the success or failure of the interview is reflected in the change in the content of journal entry B before and after the interview.

[0092] The effect comparison unit 17 displays the diagnostic results of user A stored in the diagnostic result storage area 14f in chronological order. If a change in the diagnostic results before and after the interview can be confirmed from the results of this display, it can be considered that this is the effect of the interview.

[0093] Figure 6 shows the changes in User A's state over time, based on the diagnostic results for User A stored in the diagnostic result storage area 14f.

[0094] The display information for showing the tables and graphs shown in Figure 6 is created by the effectiveness comparison unit 17 based on the diagnostic results of user A stored over time in the diagnostic result storage area 14f, and is stored in the visualization output storage area 14g, associated with the password of the HR person in charge.

[0095] As a result, the display information stored in the visualization output storage area 14g can only be accessed by HR personnel. HR personnel can log in to the mental care system 10 from their user terminal 60 and access the visualization output storage area 14g to view tables and graphs like those shown in Figure 6 from their user terminal 60.

[0096] Figure 6(a) shows a summary comparing User A's condition two weeks before the interview and two weeks after the interview.

[0097] The summary shown in Figure 6(a) includes six items: (1) physical condition, (2) mental condition, (3) work condition, (4) emotions, (5) average workload points, and (6) the gap between perceived and actual work. However, this is just an example and not limited to these items.

[0098] (5) Average workload points are calculated by quantifying the workload using external business systems such as attendance management systems.

[0099] (6) The gap between perceived performance and actual work is evaluated comprehensively based on (3) work performance and (5) average workload points. For example, if user A rates (3) work performance low, but (5) average workload points are not relatively low, the gap between perceived performance and actual work can be determined to be a "tendency to underestimate." On the other hand, if user A rates (3) work performance highly and (5) average workload points are also relatively high two weeks after the interview, the gap between perceived performance and actual work can be determined to be "no gap."

[0100] (5) The calculation of average workload points and (6) the evaluation of the gap between perceived workload and actual workload are both performed by the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 and stored in the diagnostic result storage area 14f along with the diagnostic results of (1) to (4).

[0101] Figure 6(b) is a graph showing the changes in (2) mental state over time.

[0102] In Figure 6(b), the black circles correspond to the interview dates. As can be seen in Figure 6(b), before the interview, (2) the mental state was unstable, but after the interview, (2) the mental state became stable. In such cases, it can be inferred that the mental state became stable as a result of the interview.

[0103] Figure 6(c) is a graph showing (1) changes in physical condition over time.

[0104] In Figure 6(c), the black circles correspond to the interview dates. As can be seen from Figure 6(c), (1) the physical condition has stabilized somewhat after the interview. In such cases, it can be inferred that the physical condition has stabilized due to the effect of the interview.

[0105] In this way, by comparing the state of user A before and after the interview on a graph, the effectiveness of the interview can be easily grasped visually.

[0106] Furthermore, interviewers who frequently bring about positive improvements through interviews are presumed to have high interviewing skills. Conversely, interviewers who rarely bring about positive improvements through interviews are presumed to have low interviewing skills.

[0107] Therefore, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 evaluates the interviewer's interview skills based on the changes in user A's state before and after the interview, as illustrated in Figure 6, and stores the evaluation results in the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e, associating them with the HR personnel.

[0108] The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 can utilize the interviewer evaluation results stored in the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e when determining who to interview. Furthermore, for example, HR personnel can refer to the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e to identify employees with high and low interview skills.

[0109] The effect comparison unit 17 also calculates the percentage of employees diagnosed with mental health problems by the AI ​​diagnosis unit 16 based on the diagnosis results of multiple employees belonging to a given organization, such as a company. It then creates display information for displaying tables and graphs showing the calculation results, associates it with the HR person's password, and stores it in the visualization output storage area 14g. As a result, the display information stored in the visualization output storage area 14g can only be accessed by the HR person.

[0110] Human resources personnel can log in to the mental care system 10 from their user terminal 60 and access the visualization output storage area 14g, thereby viewing tables and graphs like those shown in Figure 7 from their user terminal 60.

[0111] Figure 7 shows a summary of the diagnostic results for the entire company.

[0112] The pie chart (0) showing organizational alerts, illustrated in Figure 7, indicates how many departments across the company have received alert notifications from the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 for "more than 50% of employees in that department (hereinafter referred to as "mental health departments")." In this example, it is shown that mental health departments account for more than 1 / 4 of the entire company, allowing HR personnel to understand that approximately 1 / 4 of their departments are mental health departments. Note that the threshold for determining a department as a mental health department is set at 50%, but this can be freely set by each company.

[0113] Furthermore, HR personnel can see from the pie chart (1) showing physical condition, exemplified in Figure 7, that nearly half of the employees are in stable health, about 40% are in improving health, and the remaining 10% are in deteriorating health.

[0114] Furthermore, HR personnel can grasp company-wide trends regarding employees' mental state from the pie chart showing (2) mental state, as exemplified in Figure 7, and regarding work performance from the pie chart showing (3) work performance.

[0115] Therefore, HR personnel can understand the overall mental health status of employees throughout the company, and use this information to develop appropriate mental health measures necessary for employees.

[0116] Next, an example of the operation of a mental care system to which the mental care method according to the present invention is applied will be explained using a flowchart.

[0117] Here, we will explain the mental care system 10 implemented at Company α, using the example of employee A using it.

[0118] Mr. A is a young employee in his late twenties, a member of the so-called Gen Z, who has been with Company Alpha for seven years. Recently, he has been having trouble with interpersonal relationships at work, and every morning he has been forcing himself to go to work despite feeling reluctant to do so. He desperately wants to talk to someone, but he is not good at talking to people, and he fears that if he were to talk to his superiors, it might lower his performance evaluation. As a result, he has not been able to talk to anyone, and during this time, his depression has been steadily progressing without him realizing it.

[0119] At that time, Company Alpha introduced Mental Care System 10. Ms. A was desperate to find a way to vent her pent-up feelings, and was grasping at straws. However, Ms. A was initially skeptical about this Mental Care System 10.

[0120] However, I was drawn to the fact that all I had to do was journal entries, that there were no obligations or quotas for journal entries, and that the mental care system ensured that no one but myself, including my superiors, could ever see what I entered.

[0121] Nevertheless, Ms. A remained skeptical of this new system, but with the casual thought that she could simply not use it again if it didn't meet her expectations, she decided to give Mental Care System 10 a try.

[0122] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation during user registration in the mental care system.

[0123] First, Person A used their user terminal 60 to access the mental care system 10, registered as a user, and set their ID information C and password D (S1). The set ID information C and password D were encrypted and sent to the mental care system 10, then decrypted by the reception unit 12 of the mental care system 10, associated with each other, and stored in the password storage area 14c of the storage device 14 (S2).

[0124] In the end, Ms. A only completed user registration that day, and since she didn't feel like doing anything else, she didn't enter any journal entries. She figured that since there was no obligation or quota for entry, she would do it whenever she felt like it.

[0125] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of how journaling input to a mental care system works when it is temporarily saved.

[0126] Three days later, Mr. A accessed the mental care system 10 using user terminal 60. He didn't have any particular intention to do anything in particular; he just accessed it casually, partly for distraction. Mr. A entered the ID information C and password D that he had registered the other day into user terminal 60 (S11).

[0127] The entered ID information C and password D were encrypted and transmitted from the user terminal 60 to the mental care system 10, received by the communication unit 11, and then sent to the reception unit 12. In the reception unit 12, the ID information C and password D were decrypted, and it was confirmed whether or not the pair of ID information C and password D was stored in association in the password storage area 14c of the storage device 14 (S12).

[0128] The entered ID information C and password D pair matched a pair that had been registered three days prior and was stored in the password storage area 14c. Therefore, user authentication for A was successful (S12: Yes), and A was able to log in to the mental care system 10 (S13). Then, the mental care system 10 provided an input screen 20 for journaling input, as illustrated in Figure 3, and displayed it on the user terminal 60 (S14).

[0129] Input screen 20 displayed the message, "Feel free to write about your feelings and experiences." Helped by the reassurance that no one else could see it, Person A was able to frankly write down whatever came to mind in input window 21, letting their emotions guide them. Before they knew it, they had written quite a lot, much to their own surprise. Person A thus made their first journaling input B entry (S15).

[0130] Person A felt that by using journaling input B, they were able to confront their own feelings like keeping a diary, and by putting their own situation into words, they were able to organize their thoughts and feel at ease.

[0131] On this day, Ms. A still had more she wanted to write, but decided to stop her journaling input for the day and continue tomorrow or later. She moved the mouse on user terminal 60 over the temporary save button 24 and clicked it. As a result, the journaling input B that had been completed up to that point was encrypted along with the ID information C and sent to the mental care system 10, received by the communication unit 11, and then sent to the reception unit 12.

[0132] At the reception unit 12, journaling input B and ID information C were decoded, and journaling input B was saved in the temporary storage area 14b of the storage device 14, associated with ID information C. As a result, journaling input B was temporarily saved (S16). This temporarily saved journaling input B is managed by ID information C so that only the logged-in creator, person A, can view it.

[0133] Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation until the writing of journaling input is completed.

[0134] The following day, Person A logged into the mental care system 10 again, following the same steps S11-S13 described above.

[0135] Then, a list of journaling inputs B temporarily stored in temporary storage area 14b associated with person A's ID information was displayed (S21). Since journaling input B created yesterday was stored in person A's temporary storage area 14b, the list displayed journaling input B created yesterday.

[0136] Person A selected journaling input B, which they had created the previous day, from the list by clicking with the mouse (S22). Then, as shown in Figure 3, the input screen 20 with journaling input B written to it was displayed on the user terminal 60. From this state, with journaling input B written to the input window 21, Person A resumed writing journaling input B (S23).

[0137] In this way, the mental care system 10 allows the user to continue writing by utilizing the journaling input B that is being created and stored in the temporary storage area 14b.

[0138] Person A finished writing journaling input B, so moved the mouse over the complete button 25 and clicked it (S24).

[0139] As a result, journaling input B is encrypted together with ID information C and transmitted to the mental care system 10, received by the communication unit 11, and then sent to the reception unit 12. In the reception unit 12, journaling input B and ID information C are decrypted, and journaling input B is stored in the completed journaling input storage area 14a, which is associated with ID information C (S25).

[0140] In this way, A's journaling input B is accumulated chronologically in the completed journaling input storage area 14a, which is associated with A's ID information C. Since this completed journaling input storage area 14a is managed by ID information C, only A, who is logged in with ID information C, that is, the creator himself, can view it.

[0141] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the steps involved in arranging an interview schedule.

[0142] Journal input B of person A, which was stored in the completed journaling input memory area 14a, was reviewed by the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 using AI (S31). Because this AI is trained in accordance with the systems of psychology and counseling, and because journal input B is an honest expression of feelings made under the sense of security that it will never be seen by anyone else, the review result diagnoses person A's current mental state with high accuracy (S32). As a result, person A was diagnosed by the AI ​​as having a mental disorder that requires attention (S33: Yes).

[0143] Then, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 notified A and those related to A of an alert (S34). Those related to A include, for example, A's supervisor at Company α, the human resources person at Company α, the industrial physician in charge of Company α, and the counselor, but are not limited to these. The AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 may determine based on the diagnostic results, or specific people may be pre-configured in the mental care system 10. In the following explanation, as an example, we will assume that A's supervisor, Mr. X, is one of those related to A.

[0144] If the diagnosis is something that cannot be ignored, such as a serious mental health issue (S35: Yes), the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 uses AI to plan an interview between A and X, and based on the plan, the mental care system 10 requests A and X to arrange a date for the interview and conduct the interview (S36).

[0145] In response to this request, Mr. A and Mr. X each operated their respective user terminals 60 to arrange a meeting time that was convenient for both of them (S37). The arranged meeting time was registered in the scheduler software on each user terminal 60.

[0146] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the process after scheduling an interview.

[0147] The plan formulated by the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 in step S36 included the purpose of the interview and a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with that purpose. However, Mr. X was not notified of the detailed purpose of the interview, but was provided with a brief background that led to the request for the interview and a scenario for how to conduct the interview. Furthermore, as an appendix to the scenario for how to conduct the interview, information for pre-learning related to the scenario, such as links to several related videos, was also provided. As a result, after the interview date was decided in step S37, Mr. X was able to pre-learn for the interview by using appropriate related videos from among the provided videos, according to his knowledge level, until the interview was conducted (S41).

[0148] Since Ms. X was not necessarily accustomed to interviews, this kind of preparatory training was extremely helpful in conducting an effective interview.

[0149] On the day of the interview, A and X received notification from the scheduler software on their respective user terminals 60, informing them that the interview would be held. By accessing the link attached to this notification, A and X conducted the remote interview (S42).

[0150] After the interview, Ms. X felt that the interview had gone smoothly, thanks to her thorough preparation using the scenarios and videos provided by Mental Care System 10, and that Ms. A was surely satisfied.

[0151] On the other hand, Ms. A was not very satisfied with the content of the interview because Ms. X did most of the talking, and Ms. A was unable to fully express what she wanted to say.

[0152] After the interview, a questionnaire request from the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 was sent to each user terminal 60 for Ms. A and Ms. X (S43).

[0153] In response, A and X answered the questionnaire from their respective user terminals 60 and sent the response back to the mental care system 10 (S44).

[0154] In response, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 compared the questionnaire results of both parties and evaluated the outcome of the interview (S45). Furthermore, based on the evaluation results, as illustrated in Figure 5, interview evaluation comments 101, interview advice for the interviewer 102, and interview advice for the interviewee 103 were created. The interview evaluation comments 101 were not shown to the interviewer or the interviewee, but were shown to the HR personnel; the interview advice for the interviewer 102 was shown only to the interviewer; and the interview advice for the interviewee 103 was shown only to the interviewee (S46).

[0155] Interview evaluation comments 101 allow, for example, HR personnel to understand the effectiveness of the interview. They can also identify the gap between how interviewer X perceives the interview's outcome and how interviewee A perceives it. Furthermore, they can assess X's interviewing skills.

[0156] Furthermore, X, the interviewer, can receive advice on how to conduct interviews based on the results of this interview, using Interview Advice 102 for Interviewers. This allows X to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of this interview, and to use the advice to improve their interview skills in future interviews.

[0157] Furthermore, through Interviewee Advice 103, the interviewee, can receive advice on how to conduct future interviews based on the results of this interview. This will motivate A to use the advice to improve their next interview and strive to achieve more successful interviews.

[0158] Even after the interview ends, Ms. A continues to write journaling input B, as explained using the flowcharts in Figures 9 and 10. As a result, the journaling input B by Ms. A is accumulated chronologically in the completed journaling input storage area 14a.

[0159] Similarly, in the mental care system 10, as explained using the flowchart in Figure 11, a diagnosis of A's mental state is made using journaling input B, which is stored chronologically in the completed journaling input memory area 14a associated with A's ID information C, and the diagnosis result is stored in the diagnosis result memory area 14f.

[0160] The diagnostic results for user A stored in the diagnostic result storage area 14f are displayed by the effect comparison unit 17 in a time-series comparison, for example, as shown in Figure 6. If a change in the diagnostic results before and after the interview can be confirmed from the results of this comparison display, it can be estimated that this is the effect of the interview.

[0161] For example, Figure 6(a) shows that in the two weeks prior to the interview, (1) physical condition was declining, (2) mental condition was fluctuating, and (3) work performance was declining. However, in the two weeks following the interview, (1) physical condition stabilized, (2) mental condition stabilized, and (3) work performance improved.

[0162] Furthermore, (2) Figure 6(b), which shows the changes in mental condition over time, indicates that the condition was unstable before the interview (before the black circle in the figure), but became stable after the interview (after the black circle in the figure).

[0163] Furthermore, (1) Figure 6(c), which shows the changes in physical condition over time, indicates that the condition was unstable before the interview, but became slightly more stable after the interview.

[0164] In all cases, the condition was shown to have improved after the interview.

[0165] Comparative displays like the one shown in Figure 6 can be viewed by the interviewer, Mr. X, and the HR personnel. This type of results display allows interviewers and HR personnel to easily and visually grasp the effectiveness of the interview.

[0166] Furthermore, the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 evaluates interviewers who frequently bring about improvement through interviews as having high interview skills, based on the changes in User A's state before and after the interview, as illustrated in Figure 6. Conversely, interviewers who rarely bring about improvement through interviews are evaluated as having low interview skills. The evaluation results are then linked to the HR personnel and stored in the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e.

[0167] Human resources personnel can identify employees with high and low interview skills by referring to the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e. Furthermore, the evaluation results stored in the interviewer evaluation result storage area 14e are also used by the AI ​​diagnostic unit 16 when determining who will conduct the interview.

[0168] Furthermore, the mental care system 10's effectiveness comparison unit 17 can also display a summary of the diagnostic results for all employees, as illustrated in Figure 7, based on the diagnostic results of all employees at company α.

[0169] Human resources personnel can understand the mental health status of all employees from summaries such as the one shown in the graph in Figure 7, and use this information to plan appropriate mental health care measures necessary for employees.

[0170] As described above, the mental care system to which the mental care method according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied utilizes the fact that people may not be able to express their true feelings to other people but can to machines. By using psychological journaling techniques and AI, the system is able to draw out the user's true feelings and help users with mental health problems as early as possible, even before they become seriously ill.

[0171] Journaling doesn't require any special skills or knowledge, and anyone can easily start it. Users can incorporate journaling into their daily lives and aim for a state of mental and physical well-being.

[0172] By incorporating this mechanism, Mental Care System 10 can protect user privacy while identifying abnormalities in users and guiding them to meetings with relevant parties (supervisors, HR personnel, industrial physicians, etc.).

[0173] Furthermore, it makes the effectiveness of the interviews visible, allowing for continued mental health care even after the interviews are over.

[0174] This allows stakeholders (supervisors, HR personnel, industrial physicians, etc.) to understand whether an effective interview was conducted and whether the problem was resolved.

[0175] Thus, according to the mental care system 10 to which the mental care method according to the embodiment of the present invention is applied, it is possible to achieve both "the person being able to express their true feelings with peace of mind and sort out their own emotions (self-help)" and "being able to ask for help from those around them before they become overwhelmed with worries (public assistance)."

[0176] Therefore, by applying this mental care system 10 to a company, even employees who are unable to verbally express their concerns to their superiors or colleagues will be able to honestly confide their worries. As a result, companies can quickly recognize employees' concerns and guide them toward improvement, thereby resolving employee mental health issues as early as possible, and reducing employee turnover and the number of employees suffering from psychological distress.

[0177] Furthermore, since the mental state of employees can be visualized across the entire company, it becomes possible to implement necessary company-wide mental health care measures early and appropriately.

[0178] Thus, according to the system, method, and program for mental care of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the number of people who fall into serious mental illness by utilizing AI to ensure the anonymity of journaling input B and resolving mental health issues as early as possible, even at the pre-symptomatic stage.

[0179] While the mental care system, method, and program of the present invention are preferably used in companies, they are not limited to this and are also suitable for use in schools, for example.

[0180] The best mode for carrying out the present invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the present invention is not limited to this configuration. Within the scope of the invented technical idea of ​​the claims, a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications and alterations, and it is understood that such modifications and alterations also fall within the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0181] 10 Mental Care Systems 11 Communications Department 12 Reception Department 14 Storage device 14a Completed journaling input memory area 14b Temporary storage area 14c Password storage area 14d Input screen memory area 14e Interviewer evaluation result storage area 14f Diagnostic result storage area 14g Visualization Output Storage Area 15. Template Provision Department 16 AI Diagnostic Department 17. Comparison of Effects 20 Input screen 21 Input window 23 Back button 24. Temporary Save Button 25. Complete button 60 User Terminals 70 Communication Networks 101 Interview Evaluation Comments 102 Interview advice for interviewers 103 Interview advice for interviewees A User B Journaling Input C ID information D Password E Input screen information F Completion Flag Information G Temporary storage flag information

Claims

1. A reception unit that receives journaling input from the user, A storage device that stores journaling input made by the user to the reception unit in chronological order, associated with the user, so that only the user can access it; The system includes an AI diagnostic unit that uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state based on journaling input stored in the memory device, The AI ​​diagnostic unit notifies the user and the user's related parties of an alert based on the results of the diagnosis. If the AI ​​diagnostic unit determines that the user is experiencing mental distress, it will determine appropriate individuals related to the user based on the nature of the mental distress, and will notify the user and the determined individuals of the alert. The AI ​​diagnostic unit plans an interview between the user and the designated parties in accordance with the nature of the mental health issue, and requests the user and the designated parties to conduct the interview. Planning the aforementioned interview includes setting the purpose of the interview and creating a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with the set purpose. The AI ​​diagnostic unit is a mental care system that provides the scenario to the designated parties when requesting the conduct of the interview.

2. The mental care system according to claim 1, wherein the AI ​​diagnostic unit provides the determined persons with pre-learning information related to the scenario.

3. The mental care system according to claim 2, wherein the pre-learning information is a link to related videos.

4. The mental care system according to claim 3, wherein the link information includes links to multiple related videos of varying levels of detail.

5. The mental care system according to claim 1, wherein the AI ​​diagnostic unit, after the interview, conducts a questionnaire regarding the interview with the user and the determined parties, and compares the results of the questionnaires from both parties to evaluate the outcome of the interview.

6. A reception unit that receives journaling input from the user, A storage device that stores journaling input made by the user to the reception unit in chronological order, associated with the user, so that only the user can access it; An AI diagnostic unit that uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state based on journaling input stored in the aforementioned storage device, The system includes an effect comparison unit that compares the diagnostic results for the user made by the AI ​​diagnostic unit in a time-series manner, The AI ​​diagnostic unit notifies the user and the user's related parties of an alert based on the results of the diagnosis. If the AI ​​diagnostic unit determines that the user is experiencing mental distress, it will determine appropriate individuals related to the user based on the nature of the mental distress, and will notify the user and the determined individuals of the alert. The AI ​​diagnostic unit plans an interview between the user and the designated parties in accordance with the nature of the mental health issue, and requests the user and the designated parties to conduct the interview. The AI ​​diagnostic unit is a mental care system that evaluates the interview skills of the determined parties based on changes in the diagnostic results before and after the interview.

7. The mental care system according to claim 6, wherein the effect comparison unit calculates the percentage of users diagnosed with mental health problems among multiple users belonging to a predetermined organization, and creates display information for displaying the calculation results.

8. The mental care system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the AI ​​is an AI that has undergone learning in accordance with the systems of psychology and counseling.

9. Journaling input from users is acquired at the reception desk. The journaling input is stored in a memory device in a time-series manner, associated with the user, so that only the user can access it. Based on the journaling input stored in the memory device, the AI ​​diagnostic unit uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state. The AI ​​diagnostic unit notifies the user and the user's related parties of an alert based on the results of the diagnosis. If the AI ​​diagnostic unit determines that the user is experiencing mental distress, it will determine appropriate individuals related to the user based on the nature of the mental distress, and will notify the user and the determined individuals of the alert. The AI ​​diagnostic unit plans an interview between the user and the determined parties in accordance with the nature of the mental health issue, sets the purpose of the interview, and creates a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with the set purpose. A method for mental care in which the AI ​​diagnostic unit provides the scenario to the determined parties and requests the user and the determined parties to conduct the interview.

10. A function to acquire journaling input from users at the reception desk. A function for storing the journaling input in a memory device in a time-series manner, associated with the user, so that only the user can access it. A function that uses AI to diagnose the user's mental state based on journaling input stored in the aforementioned storage device. A function to notify the user and related parties of the user of an alert based on the results of the diagnosis. If the result of the diagnosis indicates that the user is experiencing mental health issues, the system will determine appropriate stakeholders as those related to the user, based on the nature of the mental health issues, and will notify the user and the determined stakeholders of the alert. A function that, in accordance with the nature of the aforementioned mental health issues, plans an interview between the user and the designated parties, sets the purpose of the interview, and creates a scenario for how to conduct the interview in accordance with the set purpose. A program for the processor to implement a function that provides the aforementioned scenario to the aforementioned determined parties and requests the user and the aforementioned determined parties to conduct the aforementioned interview.

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