A recent national survey published in JAMA Network Open reveals that 13.1% of US adolescents (aged 12-21) use generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT for mental health support, equating to roughly 5.4 million youths. Findings show that usage is particularly prevalent among young adults aged 18-21, with 22.2% reporting they seek AI advice during emotional distress, such as sadness or anger. Monthly interactions with these chatbots were reported by 65.5% of users, and an impressive 92.7% found the advice helpful. However, disparities emerged; Black respondents rated the advice’s helpfulness lower compared to White non-Hispanic individuals. Limitations of the study include reliance on self-reported data, which could introduce biases, and a focus on English-speaking youths with internet access, potentially affecting generalizability. This study highlights the significant role AI could play in addressing the youth mental health crisis, emphasizing the need for further evaluation of trust, safety, and integration with professional care.
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