Doctors warn: Young people use AI as a substitute for a therapist

An APA survey reveals: nearly half of AI users converse with it as a friend or therapist. 26% of young people use it as a substitute for professional counseling. Researchers question whether the trend alleviates loneliness or deepens it.

A new survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) reveals a concerning phenomenon: nearly half of artificial intelligence users (49%) converse with it as a friend, and 47% use it as a substitute for a mental health therapist. The trend is particularly prominent among young people aged 18 to 29, where 26% regularly use AI as a substitute for professional counseling. The survey was conducted against a backdrop of rising stress levels, with 47% of adults reporting a reduction in social activities due to pressure. Despite concerns, 51% of users reported positive experiences, while 12% feared developing dependence on the technology and 9% felt increased disconnection. Researchers emphasize that the survey cannot determine whether the trend alleviates loneliness or deepens it.