As demand for AI mental health apps rises, states are enacting regulations amidst a lack of comprehensive federal oversight. New laws from states like Illinois and Nevada ban AI therapy altogether, while Utah mandates protections for user privacy and disclosures about the non-human nature of chatbots. However, the diverse and evolving nature of AI applications leads to a patchwork of regulations that struggle to provide adequate user protection. Many chatbots, including popular ones like ChatGPT, remain unregulated, risking user safety, especially in dire cases of mental health crises. Experts advocate for more stringent federal guidelines that could enforce transparent practices, monitor adverse effects, and prioritize safety in AI tools. Research shows promise in controlled environments, like Dartmouth’s Therabot study, but warns against assumptions about AI’s therapeutic capabilities. Policymakers and developers need to collaborate to ensure effective, ethical use of AI in mental health care, addressing the growing provider shortage without compromising user safety.
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