Can an AI voice coach ease depression? new study tests lumen

NCT ID NCT05603923

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether an AI voice coach called Lumen can help adults with mild-to-moderate depression or anxiety. 200 participants were randomly assigned to receive problem-solving training from Lumen, a human coach, or a waitlist. The goal was to see if the AI coach could improve emotional well-being by teaching practical skills to tackle daily problems.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Lumen voice-based AI coach delivering Problem-Solving Treatment (PST)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a convenient, accessible way to help people manage depression and anxiety symptoms without medication or in-person therapy.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase study (200 people) comparing AI coaching to human coaching and a waitlist. Results may not apply to everyone, and the AI may not be as effective as human therapists.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Department of Medicine, Vitoux Program on Aging and Prevention

    Chicago, Illinois, 60608, United States

  • UIMC Advanced Imaging Center

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States