One in Five Young People Rely on AI Chatbots for Mental Health Guidance
| Source: Mastodon | Original article
One in five young people use AI chatbots for mental health advice.
A recent survey by the RAND research institute reveals that nearly 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults are seeking mental health advice from AI chatbots, marking a significant increase from early 2025. This trend is particularly notable given the rise of AI-powered tools like ChatGPT, which have become increasingly popular among young people.
The findings suggest that young people are turning to AI chatbots for support with emotions like sadness, anger, nervousness, and stress. What's more, nearly two-thirds of these individuals have not disclosed their use of AI chatbots to anyone, highlighting a potential gap in traditional support systems. As we reported on June 2, concerns around AI safety and regulation are growing, with Florida suing OpenAI over alleged harms caused by ChatGPT.
As the use of AI chatbots for mental health advice continues to grow, it's essential to monitor the implications of this trend. Researchers and policymakers must consider the potential benefits and risks of AI-powered mental health support, particularly among vulnerable populations like adolescents and young adults. The RAND study's findings underscore the need for further investigation into the role of AI chatbots in mental health and the importance of ensuring that these tools are used responsibly and with adequate oversight.
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