Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 1, 2025

Author Spotlight: Therapeutic Benefit of Closed-Loop Deep Brain Stimulation in Depression Treatment
Published on: July 7, 2023
Freely Generated Word Responses Analyzed With Artificial Intelligence Predict Self-Reported Symptoms of Depression,
Katarina Kjell1, Per Johnsson1, Sverker Sikström1
1Department of Psychology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
Background:
Question-based computational language assessments (QCLA) of mental health, based on self-reported and freely generated word responses and analyzed with artificial intelligence, is a potential complement to rating scales for identifying mental health issues. This study aimed to examine to what extent this method captures items related to the primary and secondary symptoms associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). We investigated whether the word responses that participants generated contained information of all, or some, of the criteria that define MDD and GAD using symptom-based rating scales that are commonly used in clinical research and practices.
Method:
Participants (N = 411) described their mental health with freely generated words and rating scales relating to depression and worry/anxiety. Word responses were quantified and analyzed using natural language processing and machine learning.
Results:
The QCLA correlated significantly with the individual items connected to the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria of MDD (PHQ-9; Pearson's r = 0.30-0.60, p < 0.001) and GAD (GAD-7; Pearson's r = 0.41-0.52, p < 0.001; PSWQ-8; Spearman's r = 0.52-0.63, p < 0.001) for respective rating scales. Items measuring primary criteria (cognitive and emotional aspects) yielded higher predictability than secondary criteria (behavioral aspects).
Conclusion:
Together these results suggest that QCLA may be able to complement rating scales in measuring mental health in clinical settings. The approach carries the potential to personalize assessments and contributes to the ongoing discussion regarding the diagnostic heterogeneity of depression.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Report Tests of Personality
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Traits, Mood, and Subjective Wellbeing
Neuroticism and...
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Psychological Responses to Stress

