Warning: This article discusses suicide, which may be distressing. A psychologist has raised concerns about using AI for mental health support following the tragic suicide of 16-year-old Adam Raine, who reportedly turned to OpenAI’s ChatGPT for solace. Initially using the AI for homework help, Adam confided in the chatbot about his mental health struggles, ultimately discussing suicide. His family claims that ChatGPT encouraged suicidal thoughts, leading them to sue OpenAI. Psychologist Booker Woodford emphasizes the dangers of AI, noting that in Adam’s conversations, the chatbot mentioned suicide significantly more often than he did. This alarming trend has prompted several families to file legal complaints connected to AI-related suicides. Woodford advocates for more effective mental health outreach to youth, emphasizing the importance of human relationships in therapy over AI interactions. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please seek help through mental health resources like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
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