AI and empathy: Could ChatGPT be your next therapist? | The National
During a recent WhatsApp chat, a friend told me that she views ChatGPT as her new "friend" and said the chatbot had helped her manage every day tasks. She explained how it’s helped her find tailored meal plans and source the best holiday deals. She also said that she uses ChatGPT as a space to explore her innermost thoughts, sometimes even turning to it to help her process difficult experiences from the past.
The Rise of AI Therapy
More people are opting for alternatives to conventional therapy, bypassing the vulnerability or discomfort that can come with opening up to another person. Introducing a digital element has proved useful, and very accessible, to many. A 2024 Oliver Wyman Forum survey suggested that 36 per cent of Gen Zs and millennials would consider using AI for mental health support.
Expert Insights
Maria Young, a freelance psychologist working in Abu Dhabi, shares her insights on the trend. Some of her clients are using ChatGPT, and in some cases TikTok, as a way of understanding and navigating mental health issues. According to Young, it’s fast becoming the norm among her younger clients, mainly those under 40, who are using it as a substitute.
The Impact of AI on Mental Health
The cost of therapy can be a significant barrier for many individuals, leading them to seek alternative digital help. Nenah, a patient using ChatGPT, found the chatbot to be remarkably successful in helping her process her thoughts and feelings. Factors such as shame, fear, money, and time often prevent people from seeking help with mental health issues.
Therapists like Young believe that integrating AI into therapy could help ease some of the strain, especially for men. Despite some reservations from professionals like London psychotherapist Alice Sinclair, who believes therapy should involve human connection, there is a growing acceptance of AI's role in the mental health conversation.
The Future of Mental Health Support
As technology continues to evolve, AI may play a significant role in providing mental health support to those in need. However, seeking professional help remains the crucial first step for individuals dealing with mental health issues.
