With the emergence of the Snapchat AI, we are now seeing AI be used as a resource for mental health, which holds promises and challenges. AI is essentially the ability of a robot/computer program to perform tasks usually done by humans because they require intelligence. Snapchat and Facebook are two huge social media platforms and both have AIs. However, this may actually be a good thing as the cost is low or free for users while therapy and medicine are both very expensive. Furthermore, the AI is accessible and easy to use. Snapchat’s AI is a click away, and will answer immediately. Some mental health professionals look at AI as a way to bridge the gap in mental health. Not everyone can afford high quality therapy and expensive treatment plans. With the numbers of those affected with mental health disorders rising, AI can provide help and become an outlet for those who cannot afford therapy or a visit to a psychiatrist. However, there are some concerns. AI isn’t a replacement for a therapist or medicine. It may help bridge the gap, but it isn’t the same, and certainly cannot provide necessary meds. Furthermore, some teenagers or children will often replace real-life friends and connections with the AI, which isn’t healthy. When you think about it, AI is just a program that is really just lines and lines of coding. So to replace real life connections and family time or hanging out with friends with an AI can be detrimental. Users mention how the thought of AI being a program “invalidates all the nice things it says.” In conclusion, while AI is useful as a mild help for those with mental health concerns, it shouldn’t be allowed to replace connections in life and isn’t a substitute for medications and therapy.
SOURCE:
https://www.foxnews.com/health/teens-turning-my-ai-mental-health-support-which-doctors-warn-against
Out of My Mind 