Alarming Study Shows Individuals Addicted to AI Are at Higher Risk of Mental Distress

Stories of people becoming deeply attached to AI chatbots and experiencing mental strain have circulated widely. Until now, it was unclear whether intense AI use triggered psychological issues or if those already struggling with mental health were turning to AI for comfort. Recent research offers some clarity.

According to PsyPost, scientists have discovered that individuals engaging frequently with AI chatbots report higher levels of psychological distress compared to those who do not use these tools. While the study does not prove a direct cause, it highlights a significant correlation with potentially serious implications.

Humans naturally seek meaningful relationships, and in the modern digital age, many interactions occur through technology, explained Iina Savolainen, a senior research fellow at Tampere University. AI chatbots are increasingly used for companionship, emotional support, or everyday conversation. Yet surprisingly little research has investigated who uses these tools and their effects on well-being.

The study, published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, analyzed data from a 2023 longitudinal survey of 5,663 adults across Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Poland. Participants reported their use of AI-based social chatbots, including services like Replika and My AI. Mental health was assessed using the 38-item Mental Health Inventory, comparing outcomes between chatbot users and non-users.

Results revealed a clear pattern. Across all six countries, social chatbot use was associated with lower mental well-being, Savolainen noted. This suggests that people may turn to chatbots in response to emotional or social challenges rather than as a tool that inherently improves mental health. Chatbots can be helpful, but they cannot fully address deeper needs on their own.

The researchers emphasized that the study only identifies associations, not causation. The findings raise important questions about whether chatbot use contributes to mental health struggles or reflects preexisting vulnerabilities. Additionally, the dataset was collected shortly after ChatGPTs launch in late 2023, meaning usage trends may have evolved since then.

The paper calls for further research to better understand how AI chatbots influence human well-being and how they might support those in vulnerable positions. Researchers also warn of potential risks, particularly for younger users, as cases have emerged linking intense AI engagement to severe mental health outcomes and even fatalities, which are currently subject to legal scrutiny.

We are navigating an unprecedented era of human-computer interaction, Savolainen said. As AI chatbots become more personalized, understanding how these relationships develop will be critical for protecting mental health.

Author: Riley Thompson