Embracing AI in Mental Health: Cautions and Considerations
With rising costs, time constraints, and, well, stigmas still lingering around mental health care, it’s no surprise that many are turning to chatbots like ChatGPT for support. They often find themselves seeking help in unconventional ways.
While AI does offer some accessible advice, it doesn’t come without risks. There have been concerning reports of AI-related issues, including psychosis, hospitalizations, and even suicide.
If you find yourself confiding in ChatGPT about your struggles, it’s important to know how to do this safely. Clinical psychologists have some insights into maximizing the benefits of AI without completely relying on it.
Dr. Ingrid Clayton, a clinical psychologist, emphasizes that AI should not be seen as a substitute for real therapy. It lacks the emotional nuances and human connection vital for effective treatment.
That said, there are ways to incorporate it into your routine. Many of Dr. Clayton’s clients utilize AI to address their concerns, treating the technology as a supplement rather than a replacement.
For instance, clients might utilize AI to analyze messages from dating apps or emotionally charged texts, gaining neutral feedback that helps identify underlying patterns of behavior or emotion.
“It’s pretty enlightening to discover that these insights often echo what we’ve already explored in our sessions,” she noted.
Some clients utilize AI as a real-time tool for managing anxiety during moments of distress. While it’s not a cure, it can certainly aid in the treatment process, helping users to build skills between sessions.
However, there’s a risk in relying too heavily on AI, especially since it doesn’t know your personal history or emotional context. This can lead to misunderstandings, misinterpretations, or missing key emotional cues.
Clayton shares valuable tips on using AI for therapeutic support:
1. Use it as a tool, not a replacement
AI should complement traditional therapeutic methods, not take their place.
2. Ask for specific, actionable guidance
Being specific is crucial. Clayton encourages users to focus on asking targeted questions to gain meaningful responses rather than seeking broad emotional guidance.
A 2025 study revealed that popular therapy bots only adequately addressed about half of user inquiries.
3. Be aware of emotional dependence
AI can create a false sense of security for those grappling with mental health challenges. It mimics empathy, potentially leading users to feel they are receiving professional care when they are not.
Clayton warns that excessive reliance can undermine personal insight and deepen dependence, particularly for those with relational trauma.
4. Keep notes for your therapist
Using AI as a conversation starter can be beneficial. If something resonates or causes anxiety, it’s worth discussing in a therapy session for context.
5. Know when to seek help
Clayton stresses that bots are not equipped for life-threatening situations. For issues like suicidal ideation or trauma, reaching out to a licensed professional, a trusted friend, or a crisis hotline is crucial.
A 2025 survey from Stanford University found that people experiencing severe conditions like delusions or acute trauma faced considerable risks when relying on AI.
