Study Raises Concerns Over Using AI Chatbots For Emotional Support

Artificial intelligence has quietly worked its way into everyday life. At the workplace, it is no longer optional but expected. Beyond professional use, a growing number of people are also turning to chatbots for emotional support. A recent study suggests this habit may be linked to poorer mental health.

Researchers found that people who regularly rely on AI for personal matters are more likely to report symptoms of depression or anxiety. The study was carried out by Mass General Brigham, a nonprofit healthcare organisation, which surveyed 20,847 adults across the United States about their AI use and mental well-being.

Published on January 21, 2026, in JAMA Network Open, the survey showed that 10.3% of participants used AI at least once a day, while 5% reported using it multiple times daily. Among daily users, 87.1% said they turned to AI for personal reasons such as advice, suggestions, or emotional support.

The findings also pointed to age-related differences. Participants between 45 and 64 years old were more likely to report depressive symptoms, including persistent sadness, low self-esteem, lack of energy, and reduced motivation. Researchers observed that heavier use was associated with more intense symptoms. However, no such link was found among those who used AI mainly for education or work. Those who depended on chatbots for personal support showed higher levels of emotional distress than those who did not use them at all.

Previous research has suggested that chatbots designed specifically for mental health care may help support therapy, but not replace it. In contrast, studies on general-purpose tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT indicate they may pose challenges for people already struggling with mental health issues. The American Psychological Association has also cautioned that AI should not be seen as a substitute for professional therapy or psychological treatment.

Dr. Jodi Halpern, co-director of UC Berkeley’s Kavli Center for Ethics, Science and the Public, stressed that the study does not prove AI causes depression. She explained that the relationship may work in both directions, with people experiencing higher levels of depression turning to AI more often for personal support. The study also found that AI use was higher among men, younger adults, higher earners, people with advanced education, and those living in urban areas.