New research highlights the potential of AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, in addressing mental health concerns, particularly in regions with limited access to traditional therapy.
ChatGPT provides advice and recommendations for managing anxiety based on information scraped from the internet.
- Some individuals have used ChatGPT as a substitute for therapy, reporting positive experiences.
- AI
therapy could offer quicker and more affordable support compared to
traditional mental health services, which often face challenges such as
staff shortages and long wait times.
- Ethical and practical concerns arise regarding AI's ability to empathize with patients and accurately recognize warning signs.
- Current
AI chatbot technologies are limited in mimicking human interaction and
may produce unpredictable or inaccurate responses.
- Apps like
Wysa, Heyy, and Woebot, which use rules-based systems, are being used to
supplement traditional therapy, offering resources and cognitive
behavioral therapy techniques.
- AI
shows potential in research and identifying early signs of relapse, but
caution is needed to ensure appropriate standards of care and avoid
potential harm.
