‘Mind-Reading’ AI Aims to Detect Mental Illness Early Through Wearables and Genetic Data

A researcher at the University of Pennsylvania received an $8 million grant to develop an AI system that uses biometric, smartphone, and genetic data to spot early signs of conditions like Alzheimer’s or depression. By analyzing wearables (tracking sleep, movement), phone usage patterns, and DNA markers, the program flags subtle cognitive decline years before official diagnosis. Early pilot studies suggest doctors could intervene sooner with therapy or lifestyle changes. Although privacy concerns loom, the project’s backers believe proactive detection can transform mental health care.