AT-DAD

Transforming adolescent health through AI-driven solutions and community engagement.

AI-Powered Mental Health Support for Adolescents through AT-DAD

AT-DAD provides adolescents with a secure, AI-powered platform where they can openly address mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and stress. The AT-DAD chatbot offers confidential, real-time support, guiding young people through their concerns. For sensitive or complex issues, the chatbot escalates cases to trained professionals within the advisory network, ensuring adolescents receive the appropriate care and emotional support to enhance their well-being.

About AT-DAD

AT-DAD (Afya-Tek Digital Adolescent Drive) is the adolescent-focused component of the Afya-Tek project. Designed to improve the health outcomes of adolescents, AT-DAD addresses key issues such as HIV prevention, teenage pregnancy, violence, mental health, and nutrition. By leveraging AI technology and community support, AT-DAD empowers young people to make informed health decisions and fosters a supportive environment for their growth and well-being.

Key Features of AT-DAD:

AI-Powered Chatbot

Provides personalized health guidance on sexual health, mental well-being, and nutrition.

Adolescent Clubs

Peer-led platforms for engaging in health-related activities and discussions.

Confidential Support

Secure and confidential access to health information and professional assistance for sensitive issues.

Our Pillars of Adolescent

Health and Well-Being

The AT-DAD project is built upon four key pillars that guide all interventions aimed at improving adolescent health in Tanzania. These pillars align with the National Accelerated Action & Investment Agenda for Adolescent Health and Wellbeing (NAIA-AHW 2021-2025), ensuring that our work supports and enhances the national goals for adolescent well-being.

Preventing HIV

We provide adolescents with comprehensive education and resources on HIV prevention, helping them protect themselves and make informed decisions about their health.

Preventing Teenage Pregnancy

Through targeted interventions, AT-DAD empowers adolescents—particularly young girls—with the information and support necessary to avoid unplanned pregnancies and take control of their reproductive health.

Preventing Violence and Supporting Mental Health

AT-DAD works to prevent physical, emotional, and sexual violence while offering adolescents critical mental health support through an AI-powered platform that ensures confidentiality and real-time guidance.

Improving Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for healthy adolescent development. AT-DAD educates young people on the importance of balanced diets and healthy eating habits, helping them make informed choices for their long-term well-being.

How AT-DAD Project Works

The AT-DAD project utilizes a multi-tiered approach, combining advanced AI technology with community-driven support to meet the health needs of adolescents. By integrating digital solutions with on-the-ground partnerships, AT-DAD ensures that adolescents receive personalized health guidance while benefiting from local expertise and resources.

Type 01 Assistance

AI-Powered Chatbot Support

Adolescents engage with an intuitive, AI-driven chatbot that provides confidential guidance on sexual and reproductive health, mental well-being, and nutrition. The chatbot offers personalized support and, when necessary, identifies sensitive issues that require further attention, escalating them to trained health professionals to ensure the adolescent receives appropriate care and intervention.

Type 02 Assistance

Community-Driven Support

The AT-DAD project collaborates with Community Health Workers (CHWs), teachers, and local authorities to establish and manage Adolescent Clubs. These clubs act as peer-led platforms where adolescents participate in health education activities and access valuable resources through the AT-DAD App. This community-based support ensures that adolescents receive guidance from trusted local leaders, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging positive health behaviors.

Type 03 Assistance

Escalation to Professionals

For complex or sensitive issues, the AT-DAD chatbot seeks consent from the adolescent to escalate their concerns to the Advisory Committee, composed of healthcare and youth experts. This process ensures that adolescents receive the appropriate level of care and professional guidance from trusted members of their community, providing them with the support they need in critical situations.

Importance of the AT-DAD Application

AT-DAD App is a vital tool transforming adolescent health by providing young people with accurate information and real-time support. More than just a health app, it empowers adolescents to make informed decisions, connect with peers, and access trusted advice in a safe and confidential environment. By integrating AI and human expertise, the AT-DAD app plays a crucial role in addressing the unique challenges adolescents face in areas such as sexual health, mental health, and nutrition.

Key Features of AT-DAD:

AI-Powered Chatbot

A friendly and intelligent chatbot that provides confidential, personalized guidance on topics like sexual health, mental well-being, and nutrition.

Real-Time Escalation for Sensitive Issues

Identifies sensitive or complex issues and escalates them to trained professionals from the Advisory Committee with the user’s consent.

Health Resources and Tools

Access to a library of resources, including PDFs, videos, and guides on various health topics.

Adolescent Clubs

Virtual platforms where adolescents can engage in peer-led activities, discussions, and health education.

Event and Activity Tracking

View upcoming events, activities, and health workshops within clubs, and interact with the content to foster greater participation.

AT-DAD Our Core Values

At the heart of the AT-DAD project are three core values: Empowerment, Confidentiality, and Community Engagement. These principles guide our efforts to provide adolescents with the knowledge and support they need, ensuring a safe, secure, and community-driven approach to health and well-being.

01. Empowerment

The project empowers adolescents by providing them with the knowledge, resources, and tools they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being, fostering independence and confidence.

02. Confidentiality

Ensuring privacy and security is at the heart of the AT-DAD project. Adolescents are given a safe space to explore sensitive health issues, with AI-driven support and professional escalation only occurring with their consent.

03. Community Engagement

AT-DAD is built on strong community ties, working closely with local health workers, teachers, and authorities to create a support network that integrates technology with traditional, community-based care, ensuring sustainability and localized impact.

Achievements to Date

The AT-DAD project has achieved significant milestones in enhancing adolescent health through its innovative blend of AI-driven technology and community-based support. From establishing adolescent clubs to empowering health workers and launching a digital platform, AT-DAD is transforming adolescent health care and fostering sustainable, long-term solutions.
40
Adolescent Clubs Established
901
Adolescents Reached
56
Community Health Worker Trained
24
Teachers Trained

AT-DAD FAQs

All Your Questions Answered

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The AT-DAD app provides adolescents with access to real-time, AI-driven health advice on critical issues like sexual and reproductive health, mental wellness, and nutrition. It also connects users with community health workers, teachers, and advisory committees for additional support when needed.

es, the AT-DAD app is designed with privacy and security in mind. All conversations with the AI chatbot are confidential, and users’ personal details are protected. Sensitive issues can be escalated to trusted professionals, but only with the user’s consent.

Adolescent clubs, managed through the AT-DAD app, are community-based groups where adolescents can engage in peer-led activities, discussions, and health education. These clubs foster a sense of belonging and encourage positive health behaviors among young people.

The AT-DAD AI chatbot is trained to answer questions on health topics such as HIV prevention, mental health, and nutrition. It provides immediate, personalized advice and can escalate sensitive or complex issues to the Advisory Committee for professional support if needed.

There are many ways to get involved! You can support the projects by volunteering, becoming a partner, or spreading awareness about adolescent health. For more information, please contact us through the details provided in the contact section.

Partners

AT-DAD Collaborators

Our Partners in Advancing Healthcare