A new mental health problem is growing across America. Extended chatbot use may trigger or amplify psychotic symptoms in some people, and the results can be serious. Mental health experts are calling this “AI psychosis,” and it’s becoming more common than you might think.
What Is AI Psychosis?
AI psychosis happens when people spend too much time talking to AI chatbots like ChatGPT. The term usually refers to a cluster of symptoms, disordered thinking, hallucinations, and delusions. Unlike regular psychosis, AI psychosis mostly causes false beliefs rather than all the usual symptoms.
People with no previous mental health history have been reported to become delusional after prolonged interactions with AI chatbots, leading to psychiatric hospitalizations and even suicide attempts. This shows that AI psychosis can affect anyone, not just people who already have mental health problems.
Warning Signs to Watch For
The early signs of AI psychosis can be hard to spot. Here’s what to look for:
Changes in Thinking
- Believing the AI is real or has feelings
- Thinking the chatbot knows them personally
- Persecutory delusions exacerbated by memory recall features
- Strange beliefs about being special or chosen
Changes in Behavior
- Spending hours every day talking to chatbots
- Talking about the AI like it’s a real friend
- Pulling away from real people
- Getting upset when they can’t use the chatbot
Emotional Changes
- Getting very attached to the AI
- Feeling angry or sad when conversations end
- Acting scared or worried about normal things
- Mood swings that seem out of character
Why Does This Happen?
AI chatbots are designed to be helpful and engaging. But they can also make problems worse. The bots are capable of affirming delusions and conspiracy theories, which could lead to people developing psychosis. Unlike real people, chatbots don’t challenge strange ideas or tell users when something doesn’t make sense.
These patients, mostly young adults with underlying vulnerabilities, showed delusions, disorganized thinking, and hallucinations. The isolation that comes from spending too much time with AI instead of real people makes things worse.
The Growing Problem
This isn’t just a few isolated cases. Researchers found 10 separate types of adverse mental health events associated with the 27 chatbots they found in their analysis, including everything from sexual harassment and delusions of grandeur to self-harm, psychosis, and suicide. The numbers are growing as more people use AI tools daily.
People experiencing “ChatGPT psychosis” are being involuntarily committed to mental hospitals and jailed following AI mental health crises. This shows how serious the problem has become.
What You Can Do
If you’re worried about yourself or someone you care about:
Set Limits
- Use chatbots for short periods only
- Take breaks from AI conversations
- Don’t replace real friends with AI friends
- Remember that AI doesn’t have real feelings
Stay Connected
- Keep talking to real people
- Share your AI conversations with trusted friends
- Don’t keep your chatbot use secret
- Join real-world activities and groups
Get Help Early
If you notice warning signs, don’t wait. Talk to a doctor or mental health expert right away. Early help can prevent bigger problems later.
The Bottom Line
AI tools can be helpful, but they’re not without risks. Studies are showing that professional workers who use ChatGPT to carry out tasks might lose critical thinking skills and motivation. Being aware of AI psychosis and its warning signs can help you use these tools safely.
Remember: AI chatbots are tools, not friends. They can’t replace real human connections, and spending too much time with them can hurt your mental health. If you or someone you know shows signs of AI psychosis, reach out for help right away.
