Mind publishes new resources on impact of AI on mental health
New research commissioned by Mind found people are using AI chatbots to support their mental health and wellbeing instead of more formal support like talking therapies. Among the 1 in 5 people who had used AI chatbots to support their mental health in the last 12 months, 3 in 5 had used chatbots in place of more formal support like NHS talking therapies.
The charity also reports an emerging rise in safeguarding concerns linked to AI-related harm through mental health support. To support the public in navigating AI, Mind has launched new PIF TICK-certified mental health and AI resources.
New online resources
"Artificial intelligence (AI) tools have become very popular. But there’s a lot no one knows about AI yet. It’s not always clear what it’s most helpful for, or what impact it’s having on our mental health."
That is the opening paragraph for Mind’s new online resources for users on the impact of generative AI on mental health. The webpage, which carries the PIF TICK, explores:
- Understanding different feelings about AI.
- Could AI be helpful for mental health?
- What risks does AI have for mental health?
- Signs your AI use might be unhealthy.
- How to use AI mindfully.
- Tips for coping with worries about AI.
- Where to get support for worries about AI.
Could AI be helpful for mental health?
The resources point out ways that AI might be used, like planning and preparing for appointments or helping to manage a routine. But it makes clear that there is limited guidance from places like the NHS about whether AI is safe to use and most AI is not designed to help users recover from or cope with a mental health problem.
It also explores how using AI can make some mental health problems worse, including for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and delusions. It highlights that this can happen to people who have not experienced psychosis before – sometimes called "AI psychosis".
Launch of AI & Mental Health Commission
Earlier this month, Mind launched a new commission to explore what's working, where harm might happen, and what needs to be done to ensure AI is used safely and responsibly in mental health. The Commission brings people together to talk about how AI can affect mental health, including its challenges and benefits. It is led by a commission board and includes activities where members of the public and people with personal experience can share their views and evidence.
Read the guidance on AI and mental health on the Mind website here.