This would need to happen to the extent of programming the AI tool to recognize indicators of mental health challenges like depression and addiction. Ideally, the triggers for the indicators would emerge based on the questions a person poses to the chatbot.
Some officials and scientists believe the time to get on top of this is now. They also caution against waiting too long, which could potentially lead to preventable harm.
Not everyone is convinced
Despite the talking points about improving AI programs like ChatGPT to have greater amenability to mental health, many consumers don’t trust it. The horror stories that make the news certainly don’t warm people up to the notion of automating mental health care.
Some people feel more harm than good will emerge. Likewise, ongoing questions exist about AI potentially having negative impacts on social workers, therapists, and other people working in the mental health profession.
Time will ultimately tell what comes next. Right now, it’s hard to say if ChatGPT and other similar AI programs will bring about more harm or good to the mental health sector.
