LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – “I do believe AI will continue to advance and evolve, but it does not leave us as the professionals out; there will always be that need for human connection,” said Domonika Tipton, Therapist and Owner of Uplift and Inspire Counseling and Consulting.
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is changing the way people find support, including when it comes to their mental health. While people are turning to apps like ChatGPT for support, experts say it should be done with some limitations.
AI apps like ChatGPT are being used for more than drafting the perfect email or resume. People are turning to the bot-based platform instead of friends or family, or even professionals, to manage their mental health. Experts say it’s a tool in addition to human support.
I had thought about it in the past, but one night in particular, I had a hard time falling asleep and decided to try it out,” said a Lansing woman who wished to remain anonymous.
AI technology has come a long way, says Michigan State University Communications Professor Erika Oh, so much so that people have turned to apps like ChatGPT to share their emotions.
“AI doesn’t really truly get or feel how we humans would normally feel, but it’s learned to copy the language patterns to make us feel heard,” said Oh.
The emotional support drew that Lansing woman to the app. She says she worries about being judged for turning to AI in today’s political climate.
“I struggled with postpartum depression, and my health care provider at the time suggested not only medication but therapy and referred me to a therapist, who then, after sharing about my childhood and things like that, said you have CPTSD,” she said.
Tipton says it’s been an important tool for her clients.
“Clients will actually come back to me, and say, hey, it is okay if I share with you that I use ChatGPT to further implement this outside our session. Some people feel lonely in a world full of people and want something personalized without feeling judged,” said Tipton.
While Tipton doesn’t steer her clients away from use of the app, knowing it’s free and available 24/7.
Oh says users should consider privacy risks. Also, understanding that ChatGPT is not a professional and to never solely rely on the app.
“This could lead to a cycle of isolation in the long term,” said Oh.
“So, if I’m not a very aware person, I’m tailoring all of my questions to a certain avenue, the AI is going to pick up what I’m wanting it to tell me,” said Tipton.
AI apps are just one piece to the mental health puzzle, and moderation is key, experts say.
“Use it alongside therapy, just be aware and be mindful of the technology that you’re using,” said the Lansing woman.
Experts say it’s important to determine your goal when using AI for mental health. For serious mental health issues, you should always seek support from a professional. And if you decide to use AI, be sure to use it in addition to support from a therapist, your family, or friends.
Many Americans support the limited use of AI chatbots for mental health.
A 2022 survey from the Pew Research Center shows 46% of people say AI should only be used with a therapist. 23% say AI is fine with or without a therapist, and 28% say AI shouldn’t be used at all.
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