Trusting AI chatbots is dangerous for mental health, American psychologist warns

In this era of technology, people have now started taking the help of AI chatbots and wellness apps to deal with their emotional problems and mental stress. These tools have become quite popular among people because they are easy, cheap and always available. Many people also use them as a digital counselor who listens to them, gives advice and supports them even in difficult times.

However, trusting them can prove dangerous for mental health. In fact, the American Psychological Association has issued a health advisory warning that such chatbots have neither scientific evidence nor adequate safety standards, due to which their use can be dangerous. In such a situation, let us tell you today how dangerous it can be to trust AI chatbots for mental health.

Lack of security in AI chatbots

APA’s report Use of Generative AI Chatbots and Wellness Applications for Mental Health states that these digital tools are not actually designed for mental health care. It has been said in the report that due to affordability and accessibility, people are using them in large numbers. Especially those people who are unable to afford expensive treatment or go to a therapist. Regarding this report, the CEO of APA has said that we are going through a major mental health crisis all the time. In such a situation, the problem will not be solved by technical measures alone. These chatbots can definitely provide temporary support to our mental health, but their ability to show the right path to a person in trouble is limited.

Dependence on technology instead of system improvement is not right

The American advisory also states that digital tools can be helpful in improving mental health services. But these should not become a means of diverting attention from real problems. The report has appealed to governments, researchers, doctors and tech companies to work together to prepare accountable and secure data. Apart from this, APA has also suggested that AI chatbots should not be considered an option for professional therapy and excessive emotional dependence on them should be avoided. Also, strict rules should be made regarding this for children and youth.

Strict rules and transparency are necessary

APA says that the development of AI technology has happened so rapidly that its effects and dangers could not be fully understood. In such a situation, APA has demanded from tech companies to increase transparency and allow researchers to do research for a long time. So that the real impact of these tools can be understood. Apart from this, APA has also said that till now no concrete evidence has been found which can prove that these chatbots are effective or completely safe in improving mental health.

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