A recent survey shows that young people often find ChatGPT more helpful than health professionals when seeking advice on mental health issues. The findings suggest a growing trust in artificial intelligence tools for sensitive topics. Researchers collected responses from 1,200 participants aged 16 to 25, with 68% saying they received more satisfactory answers from the AI than from doctors or psychologists.
The study highlights a shift in how younger generations approach mental health support. Many respondents reported that AI responses were immediate and free of judgment, factors they said were lacking in traditional care settings. One participant noted that ChatGPT provided clear explanations for anxiety symptoms, something they struggled to get from their therapist.
Healthcare workers themselves are also embracing AI tools. A nurse in Oslo, who asked to remain anonymous, shared that she uses ChatGPT to draft patient explanations for medication side effects. She said it saves time and ensures accuracy in her responses. Another psychologist in Bergen confirmed that some patients arrive with AI-generated advice, which they then discuss in sessions.
Experts warn against replacing human professionals entirely. Dr. Lars Hansen, a psychiatrist at the University of Oslo, said AI can supplement care but should not replace clinical judgment. He pointed out that AI lacks the ability to detect nonverbal cues or offer immediate crisis intervention. Still, he acknowledged that AI tools can help bridge gaps in access to mental health services, especially in rural areas.
The survey was conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and published in the journal Digital Health Trends. It included participants from urban and rural regions, with similar results across both groups.
Source: digi.no