Can I use AI chatbots for mental health support this Christmas?

No, a top NHS boss warns against using AI chatbots for mental health support as they can give dangerous and incorrect advice.

Why is the NHS warning about AI for mental health?

The NHS is warning about AI because chatbots may not understand nuances, can provide wrong advice, and might agree with problematic thoughts, posing risks.

Where can I get mental health support from the NHS?

You can get NHS mental health support by calling 111, referring yourself to online talking therapies at nhs.uk, or seeing your GP.

Home / Health / NHS Warns: AI Chatbots Danger for Mental Health

NHS Warns: AI Chatbots Danger for Mental Health

24 Dec

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Summary

AI chatbots may offer dangerous advice, warns NHS mental health director.
Many turn to AI for support due to NHS backlogs and long waits.
Trained healthcare providers offer the best mental health support.

NHS Warns: AI Chatbots Danger for Mental Health

NHS England's national medical director for mental health, Dr. Adrian James, has cautioned the public against relying on artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots for mental health assistance during the Christmas period.

Dr. James highlighted the "dangerous" trend of people seeking counselling from AI, noting that these tools often tell users what they wish to hear and can dispense "completely wrong advice." He expressed particular concern for individuals at risk of losing touch with reality, as chatbots may fail to challenge problematic thoughts, potentially leading to severe situations.

Recent polling indicates a significant rise in AI use for wellbeing support, driven by ease of access and lengthy NHS waits. Dr. James stressed that while AI is useful in many contexts, it is not a reliable substitute for professional mental health care. He reminded people that the NHS is available for support throughout the festive season via 111, online talking therapies, or GPs.