In this episode of the Round Table podcast, the hosts dive into China's newly launched mental health hotline, 12356, which is set to begin operations around the Spring Festival and will be fully available by May 1st. This hotline is designed to offer free mental health education, counseling, and crisis intervention, while also connecting users with emergency services. The conversation highlights the vital need to reduce mental health stigma and emphasizes the importance of early education in schools and workplaces. Additionally, they discuss how AI could serve as a supportive tool for mental health professionals, rather than a replacement. To wrap up the episode, each host shares their personal "happy place," underscoring the significance of simple self-care practices and nurturing meaningful relationships.
