A mobile app developed by the Chinese University has proved to be effective in diagnosing symptoms of depression, and researchers hope the invention can increase people's willingness to seek help at an early stage.

Using artificial intelligence, the app evaluates users' mental status by analysing attributes such as facial expression, voice and language.

A study was conducted between June 2021 and March 2023 to verify the tool's effectiveness.

More than 180 participants who took part regularly used the app to rate their mood state, and record videos of themselves.

Researchers noted that compared to healthy individuals, those suffering from depression tended to frown more and smile less. They also paused more often in their speech and used more negative emotion words.

Participants also wore devices which measured their rest activity. Data suggested depression patients were less active and suffered from sleep problems.

The self-assessment can be performed at home, without the need for face-to-face clinical consultations.

Researchers hope this will make the tool more palatable to potential patients.