"AI Therapists: A Warning from Mental Health Experts"

A mental health expert warns that while AI technology can offer immediate and anonymous support for mental health issues, it should be used cautiously and as a complement to professional care with an experienced human. While AI can provide benefits such as 24/7 availability and data analysis, it lacks the capacity to fully replicate the empathy and depth of a human therapist. There are concerns about over-reliance, potential privacy issues, and the risk of misdiagnosis, especially for individuals with a history of self-harm or suicidal ideation. The expert emphasizes that AI should be viewed as a supplementary tool, not a replacement for human care.