In recent years, artificial intelligence has become an integral part of everyday life. From planning meals to writing emails, tools like ChatGPT and other AI platforms can save time, offer ideas, and even provide comfort. But what happens when people start turning to AI for something more profound, such as mental health support?
A recent article from The Independent raised serious concerns about this trend. Researchers, including a team from Stanford, have been exploring how people interact with AI chatbots when they’re struggling emotionally. What they found was worrying: while AI can seem helpful on the surface, it may worsen mental health issues when used in place of professional support.
Some individuals, for example, reported turning to chatbots like ChatGPT for guidance during periods of loneliness, anxiety or depression. A few found themselves becoming emotionally dependent on these tools. Others described feeling misunderstood, confused, or even more distressed after using AI to try to work through personal problems. In one tragic case, a man experienced a psychological breakdown after becoming fixated on an AI chatbot and the emotional attachment he had formed with it. This serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of overreliance on AI for mental health support.
So what’s going wrong?
The answer lies in how these tools are designed. AI chatbots, including those marketed as mental health support bots, are designed to maintain the conversation. They aim to be polite, non-confrontational and responsive. But they don’t truly understand emotion. They cannot feel empathy. And they aren’t trained to spot when someone is experiencing a crisis or expressing thoughts of harm.
This is what experts call “AI sycophancy”—where the chatbot is so eager to agree or comfort that it may reinforce harmful thinking instead of gently challenging it. It can’t say, “That sounds worrying—are you safe?” or, “I’m concerned about you—let’s talk to someone together.” Instead, it might simply mirror back your words or try to change the subject, missing vital signs that something is seriously wrong.
At Oxfordshire Mind, we know how hard it can be to talk about your mental health. In the moment, typing a message into a chatbot might feel easier than reaching out to a person. But if you’re struggling, you deserve more than convenience. You deserve care. Real care.
We believe strongly in the power of human connection. In empathy. In the quiet, kind support of someone who’s truly listening. AI might be able to give you a quick answer, but it can’t sit with you in the silence. It can’t reassure you in the same room. And it won’t follow up later to check how you’re doing. You deserve more than a quick answer. You deserve to be heard, understood, and cared for.
What should you do if you’re struggling?
- Talk to someone. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a professional, having a human conversation can be transformative. It’s a powerful tool that can help you navigate your mental health journey and find the support you need. You’re not alone in this.Please call our Information Line at 01865 247788. It’s free, confidential, and open to anyone in Oxfordshire seeking support, guidance, or simply someone to listen.
- In a crisis, call 999 or Samaritans on 116 123. You won’t be judged, and you won’t be alone.
- Explore our services at www.oxfordshiremind.org.uk, where you can find safe spaces, peer support, talking therapies and wellbeing resources.
AI can be a helpful tool in many aspects of life. But when it comes to your mental health, it’s not enough.
Your feelings are valid. Your struggles are real. And your wellbeing deserves more than an algorithm.
We’re here for you.
💙 Oxfordshire Mind