AI and Mental Health: How Personal Use of Chatbots May Affect Mood
A recent study has found a link between frequent use of chatbots for personal or emotional support and increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Researchers surveyed 20,847 adults in the United States to understand how artificial intelligence (AI) affects mental health.
The survey revealed that 10.3% of participants used AI daily, with 5% reporting multiple uses per day. Of those who used AI daily, nearly half did so for work, approximately 11% for school, and 87.1% for personal purposes. Personal use included activities such as seeking advice, recommendations, or emotional support. The average age of participants was 47.
Results indicated that individuals who interacted with chatbots daily for personal reasons were more likely to experience moderate depression, anxiety, or irritability than those who did not use AI. Symptoms assessed in the study included difficulty concentrating, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite, and thoughts of self-harm. Adults aged 45 to 64 were particularly likely to report depressive symptoms linked to AI usage.
While AI chatbots designed specifically for mental health support have been shown to provide benefits when used alongside therapy, general-purpose chatbots may pose risks for people with mental health vulnerabilities. The severity of reported symptoms varied: some users experienced little to no impact, while others reported a more significant worsening of mood. The study also identified a “dose response,” showing that more frequent AI use was associated with stronger symptoms.
Interestingly, using AI for work or school purposes did not appear to increase depression or anxiety, highlighting that the mental health effects are mostly linked to personal use. Chatbots for personal reasons can serve as a form of social interaction that may otherwise be difficult for some individuals to access. However, these interactions are not a substitute for professional psychological care.
The study also raises the possibility that people experiencing depressive symptoms may be more likely to turn to AI for companionship, suggesting a potential cycle in which AI use and mental health influence one another. Demographic factors such as gender, age, income, education, and urban residency were associated with higher rates of AI usage.
Experts emphasize the need for further research to understand why certain groups are more likely to use AI or be affected negatively by it. They advise individuals to pay attention to their AI interactions, including how often they use chatbots, the nature of these interactions, and whether the experience improves or worsens their mood.
The findings highlight the importance of understanding how AI, particularly general-purpose chatbots, may impact mental health. While some individuals may benefit from AI use, others could experience increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. Users are encouraged to approach AI interactions mindfully and not to rely on them as a replacement for therapy or professional support.