A MUST have!!!

Woebot is an AI-powered chatbot designed to provide mental health support using principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It acts as a conversational tool that helps users manage their emotional well-being by offering daily check-ins, mood tracking, and practical strategies to cope with feelings like anxiety, stress, or sadness. Think of it as a pocket-sized mental health ally that’s available 24/7, guiding you through exercises and reflections to better understand your thoughts and emotions. It’s not a replacement for a human therapist but rather a convenient supplement or starting point for those seeking support.

To use Woebot, you’ll need to download the app, which is available on iOS and Android. However, there’s a catch: access isn’t open to just anyone. You need an access code from a provider, employer, or a Woebot Health partner (like a health plan or research study). Without this code, you can’t use the app directly. If you don’t have a code, you might be able to get one through your workplace, healthcare provider, or by checking if you’re eligible for any ongoing studies via Woebot Health’s website. For those outside these channels, it’s not currently available for individual sign-up in the U.S. unless you’re part of a partnered program.

As for cost, it depends on how you access it. If you get it through a partner like an employer or health plan, it’s often free to the user because the organization covers it. Historically, Woebot has offered a subscription model—around $39 per month after a two-week free trial when it was available on platforms like Facebook Messenger—but recent info suggests it’s now tied to these access codes rather than a direct purchase. If you’re not part of a partnered program, there’s no clear public pricing for individual use right now, and it’s not openly available for purchase without that connection. Check Woebot Health’s site or contact their support (support@woebothealth.com) to see if there’s a way to gain access or if costs apply in your situation.

People say it helps because it’s always there when you need it, offering a judgment-free space to vent or work through thoughts. Studies, like one with college students, showed it reduced depressive symptoms over two weeks, which backs up the buzz about its usefulness. If you’re keen to try it, start by seeing if your employer or doctor can hook you up with a code—it’s worth a shot if you’re looking for something accessible to support your mental health.