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Psychologists analyzed 31 studies from 2017 to 2023 to investigate the use of chatbots for mental health support, and it led them to an interesting discovery.

Using Chatbots Nowadays

The research, detailed in Computers in Human Behavior: Artificial Humans, examined three key aspects: engagement, user attitudes, and effectiveness. The studies involved a variety of participants, including adolescents, college graduates, older adults, IBS patients, people with eating disorders, anxiety, or depression, elderly people with dementia, and those suffering from chronic pain. 

Designed for Mental Health

Chatbots designed for mental health were found to be beneficial for addressing various conditions, such as insomnia, eating disorders, panic disorders, and ADHD.

While some studies indicated significant reductions in anxiety levels, others found no notable differences compared to control groups. Engagement levels varied, with some studies reporting high dropout rates exceeding 50%, though many others had attrition rates below 50%. People with greater psychological distress often showed higher engagement with chatbots, suggesting they could reach people hesitant to seek traditional mental health services.

Empathetic and Friendly Bots

Positive user experiences were linked to the chatbots' empathetic and friendly personality, rather than content or technological features. Therapeutic relationships could be established between users and chatbots, with short interactions proving beneficial and longer engagement necessary for significant psychological changes. Usability was a concern, particularly for older adults and those with lower technological familiarity, highlighting the need for improved design and user interface.

The findings indicate that these AI tools are generally well-received and show significant promise for improving mental health, especially in cases of depression.

How Chatbots Could Help Amid Shortage in Mental Health Services

Improving Access to Care

Chatbots can offer convenient support, potentially delivering effective interventions for specific conditions and severity levels.

Encouraging Professional Help

They can encourage people facing stigma to seek professional help.

Supplementing Traditional Therapy

Chatbots should be viewed as tools to supplement trained mental health practitioners, not replace them.

Cost-Effectiveness

They can bridge gaps in traditional services in terms of accessibility and workforce shortages.

Tailored Support

Chatbots can provide tailored support for diverse populations, especially those with greater psychological distress.

Fostering Connection

Chatbots can foster a sense of connection and trust, which is crucial for therapy.

Dr. Andrew Harris, senior lecturer in Psychology at NTU's School of Social Sciences, emphasized the potential of chatbots to bridge gaps in traditional mental health services. However, he noted the importance of viewing these technologies as supplementary tools and integrating traditional psychological approaches into their design.