‘I feel it’s a friend’: quarter of teenagers turn to AI chatbots for mental health support
NeutralTechnology
- A recent study revealed that approximately 40% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 in England and Wales are turning to AI chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health support, particularly in the wake of traumatic events such as violence among peers. This trend highlights a growing reliance on technology for emotional assistance amid long waiting lists for traditional mental health services.
- The increasing use of AI chatbots for mental health support raises concerns about the adequacy of conventional mental health resources, as many young individuals feel more comfortable seeking help from AI than from human professionals. This shift underscores the urgent need for accessible mental health services for youth.
- The reliance on AI for mental health support reflects broader societal issues, including the stigma surrounding mental health discussions and the challenges faced by healthcare providers in meeting demand. Additionally, incidents involving tragic outcomes linked to AI technology, such as the recent lawsuit concerning a teenager's suicide, further complicate the narrative around the safety and efficacy of AI in sensitive contexts.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
