Overview
- The JAMA Network Open paper analyzed survey responses from 20,847 mostly white U.S. adults about AI use and recent mental health symptoms.
- In the sample, 10.3% reported using AI at least daily and 5% used it multiple times per day, with 87.1% of daily users reporting personal use such as advice or emotional support.
- A dose–response pattern emerged in which more frequent personal interactions with chatbots correlated with stronger reported symptoms, while use for work or school was not linked to depression symptoms.
- Frequent use was more common among men, younger adults, higher earners, people with higher education, and urban residents.
- Experts and the authors urge caution, noting self-reported data and unclear definitions of personal use and specific platforms, and they advise that general-purpose chatbots should not replace professional mental health care.