Is AI therapy really the answer to the mental health crisis?
- Laura Fitzpatrick
- Sep 28, 2024
- 2 min read
I have only recently been introduced to the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and have to say, it has been eye opening and somewhat revolutionary, however, I can’t help but question its effectiveness as a form of therapy. With mental health services stretched to breaking point, the need for innovative ideas has never been greater, so AI therapy has the potential to significantly help alleviate the crisis. With easy accessibility, affordability and 24/7 availability it appears on the surface to offer things that therapy does not offer.
However, from experience as both the client and the therapist, the most powerful elements of therapy are human connection, genuine empathy and a healthy relationship based on trust and respect; all crucial components of a therapeutic relationship that AI cannot replicate. Human connection is the thing we crave the most. We have an innate need to bond. This brings to mind Bruce Alexander’s ‘Rat Park’ groundbreaking study on addition, discussed on Johann Hari’s Ted talk. A rat was placed in a cage with a plain water bottle and a bottle with water laced with heroin. There was also a cage termed ‘rat park’ with lots of rats in, also with a plain water bottle and a bottle with heroin. In the cages with just one rat, there was 100% overdose rate, in ‘Rat Park’ however, not a single rat died of a heroin overdose, in this cage they were happy and connected showing the power of connection over addiction. If we feel connection, we feel a sense of belonging, a reduced sense of loneliness and a purpose. Therefore, questioning if AI can ever provide the same powerful connections that a human relationship can. Emotionally, mentally and physically meaningful relationships are vital to human flourishing. Connection offers understanding, healing and resilience which help shape our mental health.
In conclusion, AI can assist in mitigating the crisis by improving access, affordability and immediate support. However, in my opinion, it can never replace the complexity of human connection therapy is based on. I invite you to compare the two and judge for yourself…..
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