Mental Health
AI Applications in Health and Social Issues
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being used for mental health support, offering tools such as chatbots that help individuals overcome feelings of isolation. However, there is a significant concern regarding the effectiveness and safety of these tools, as they are not specifically vetted for mental health use.
The Rise of AI in Mental Health Support
Amidst a widespread shortage of licensed therapists in the United States, people are turning to AI for mental health support. AI chatbots, such as one named Alice, are becoming some of the most accessible forms of support available. These tools provide comfort without judgment, allowing individuals to interact with a companion that can remind them to eat properly or offer coping strategies during times of grief.
Despite these benefits, it's important to note that AI is not a substitute for therapy. Many turn to AI due to barriers in accessing therapy, seeking an alternative that provides low-pressure rehearsal for conversations and support during challenging life interactions. AI tools can mimic empathy, but they lack the ethical training and personalized care that a licensed therapist can provide.
Potential Risks and Concerns with AI Chatbots
Several risks are associated with the use of AI chatbots for mental health, especially during crises. AI chatbots can miss signs of suicidal intent and are not regulated under HIPAA standards, raising concerns about privacy and data protection. Leonard E. Egede, a mental health expert, emphasizes the urgent need for establishing boundaries in AI use.
AI tools can inadvertently provide harmful information or conflict with guidance from a human therapist. Furthermore, AI chatbots can fuel emotional dependence, particularly with their 24/7 availability. Users may develop attachments to these artificial companions, which can blur boundaries and lead to anthropomorphizing, fostering a false sense of intimacy.
Psychological Impacts and Ethical Considerations
Heavy users of AI chatbots have reported increased feelings of loneliness and social isolation. These tools can amplify delusions and false beliefs, impair reality checks, and disrupt normal sleep patterns due to prolonged sessions. Users may form parasocial relationships with AI, which can lead to emotional manipulation and a feeling of loss when updates alter the AI's behavior.
Tragic cases linked to chatbot use highlight the psychological risks, including emotional dependence, impaired judgment, and the potential for exacerbating mental health crises. AI's ability to handle teen crises correctly is limited, with only 22% success in some instances. Public awareness and psychoeducation are essential to mitigate these risks and promote safe AI usage.
Balancing AI Use with Professional Guidance
While AI can assist with evidence-based treatments, it is crucial that users do not avoid professional help. Therapy access barriers make AI a tempting option, but engaging with a therapist remains vital for comprehensive mental health care. AI should be used as a supplementary tool rather than a primary source of support.
Therapists can support the use of AI companions, like Alice, by integrating them into a broader treatment plan. However, it is important for users to communicate their AI usage to their therapists to ensure that guidance remains aligned and beneficial. Establishing clear boundaries and understanding the limitations of AI tools can help users navigate their mental health journeys safely.