Integrating AI Chatbots and Wearable Technology for Workplace Mental Health: Reducing Stigma and Preventing Burnout through Human-AI Collaboration

Abstract

Workplace mental health has become an urgent global concern, with burnout, anxiety, and depression significantly affecting employee well-being and organizational performance. Despite growing awareness, stigma remains a persistent barrier to seeking mental health support. This qualitative study explores how the integration of AI-powered chatbots and wearable technology can reduce stigma and prevent burnout in professional settings. Through in-depth interviews with employees across high-stress sectors including healthcare, finance, education, and technology the study investigates user perceptions, experiences, and acceptance of these digital tools. The findings reveal that AI chatbots offer anonymous, empathetic, and accessible emotional support, while wearable devices enable real-time monitoring of stress indicators such as heart rate variability and sleep patterns. Together, these technologies form a proactive and stigma-free system for mental health engagement. Key enablers of adoption include data privacy, perceived usefulness, cultural relevance, and trust. The study proposes a conceptual framework for integrating AI and wearables into workplace wellness programs and highlights ethical considerations for their responsible use. This research contributes to the evolving field of digital mental health and offers practical insights for employers, HR leaders, and technology developers aiming to foster mentally healthy, inclusive, and future-ready workplaces.