AI chatbots like ChatGPT may reduce mental health stigma: Study
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New Delhi: While artificial intelligence cannot replace professional mental health care, chatbots such as ChatGPT may help reduce mental health stigma, especially among people reluctant to seek traditional face-to-face support, a study has found.
Researchers from Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Australia surveyed 73 individuals who had used ChatGPT for personal mental health support, examining how the tool was used and how effective it was perceived to be in addressing stigma-related concerns.
“The findings suggest that believing the tool is effective and that it plays an important role helps reduce concerns about external judgement,” said Scott Hannah, a Master of Clinical Psychology student at ECU.
Stigma remains a major barrier to seeking mental health care, often worsening symptoms and discouraging individuals from accessing support. The study focused on two key forms of stigma: anticipated stigma, which involves fear of being judged or discriminated against, and self-stigma, where individuals internalise negative stereotypes, leading to reduced confidence and reluctance to seek help.
The researchers found that participants who believed ChatGPT was effective were more likely to use it and were also more likely to report reduced anticipated stigma, meaning they experienced less fear of being judged by others.
As artificial intelligence tools become increasingly widespread, many people are turning to chatbots for private and anonymous discussions about mental health concerns. “These results suggest that, despite not being designed for these purposes, AI tools such as ChatGPT are becoming more widely used for mental health-related support,” Hannah said.
However, the researchers cautioned that reliance on anonymous digital tools raises important ethical concerns. “ChatGPT was not designed for therapeutic purposes, and recent research has shown that its responses can sometimes be inappropriate or inaccurate. Therefore, we encourage users to engage with AI-based mental health tools critically and responsibly,” Hannah added.
The team emphasised the need for further research to better understand how artificial intelligence can safely complement existing mental health services without replacing professional care.
With IANS inputs
