Technology has grown and continues to grow at an exponential rate. First there was the internet, then came smartphones and computers, and now we have artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence is a type of technology that can perform human cognitive functions like decision-making, processing, and generating content. With this new innovation available at our fingertips, companies across all fields of work have been implementing AI as a resource to
support their work. One specific field that has been using AI is the mental health field. Artificial intelligence has infiltrated the mental health industry via AI therapists and, although this sounds like progress, using AI in this way has its pros and its cons.

Technology has been making life easier in a myriad of ways for a very long time now. Artificial intelligence has made it so that if you need a therapist, you can talk to an AI version of one. Instead of a human therapist, you can talk to a computer using artificial intelligence. This is groundbreaking because it can give those that don’t have access to ordinary therapy a chance to
seek help. Not only does it make therapy more accessible, but it can aid in mental health recovery as well. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, “AI technologies can be seamlessly integrated into mobile applications to send timely reminders for medication schedules, track side effects, monitor medication responses, enhance adherence, and facilitate collaboration between individuals and their healthcare providers.” When used as a supportive tool, AI can have a real impact on people’s lives. Just like everything else, that impact can either have a positive or negative effect.

Artificial intelligence, when used as a replacement for human beings, can be detrimental as it can take away jobs from real human therapists and mental health providers. Unfortunately, this can greatly benefit companies because you don’t have to pay a computer to do its job. The can cut costs and pocket more revenue, and we can’t do anything about it. On top of that, the care
you receive from an AI therapist will never compare to talking to a living and breathing human being. AI can generate responses, but they will always lack true human emotions such as empathy and sympathy. Those are two qualities that make therapists great, and you can’t get that from a computer.

Artificial intelligence is improving more and more each day, and who knows what the future has in store for us? The decision should and will always be up to the consumer. If having AI play an integral role in your recovery works for you, then keep doing what you need to do for yourself. If that’s not the road for you, then us humans will always be here to join you on your mental health journey.

Article written by: Paulina Barker “My name is Paulina Barker and I have a passion for mental health. I obtained my bachelors degree in psychology from California State University, Northridge and am currently in the process of trying to pursue my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. My area of interest has always been eating disorders and body image. I believe everyone deserves to feel worthy and live in harmony with food. I’m one step closer to reaching my goals everyday.”