AI Chatbots Like ChatGPT May Help Reduce Mental Health Stigma, New Study Suggests

Artificial Intelligence–powered chatbots such as ChatGPT could play a supportive role in reducing mental health stigma, particularly for individuals who feel uncomfortable seeking traditional, face-to-face help, according to a new study by Australia’s Edith Cowan University (ECU).

While experts caution that AI tools are not a replacement for professional mental healthcare, the findings indicate that such platforms may help people open up about their mental health concerns without fear of judgment.

Study Explores AI’s Role In Mental Health Conversations

The study, conducted by researchers at ECU, surveyed 73 individuals who had used ChatGPT for personal mental health support. The aim was to understand how people perceive the effectiveness of AI chatbots and whether their use influences feelings of stigma related to mental health.

According to the researchers, stigma remains one of the biggest barriers preventing people from seeking help for mental health issues. Fear of being judged, misunderstood or discriminated against often discourages individuals from talking openly about their struggles.

Scott Hannah, a Master of Clinical Psychology student at ECU and part of the research team, said the findings point to an important psychological benefit of AI-based tools.

“The results suggest that believing the tool is effective plays an important role in reducing concerns about external judgment,” Hannah noted.

Reduced Fear Of Judgment Encourages Use

The study focused on two key forms of stigma. The first was anticipated stigma, which refers to the fear of being judged or discriminated against by others. The second was self-stigma, where individuals internalise negative stereotypes about mental health, often leading to reduced confidence and reluctance to seek help.

Participants who felt ChatGPT was effective were more likely to use it regularly. More importantly, they reported lower levels of anticipated stigma, meaning they felt less worried about being judged for their mental health concerns.

Researchers believe this may be because AI chatbots offer a private and anonymous space where users can express thoughts and emotions without social pressure.

As AI tools become more accessible, many people are turning to chatbots for discreet conversations about stress, anxiety, loneliness and emotional well-being.

Anonymity Makes It Easier To Open Up

One of the key reasons AI chatbots may help reduce stigma is anonymity. Unlike traditional therapy or conversations with family and friends, AI interactions do not involve fear of embarrassment or negative reactions.

“These results suggest that, despite not being designed for these purposes, AI tools such as ChatGPT are becoming more widely used for mental health-related discussions,” Hannah added.

For individuals hesitant to seek professional help due to social stigma, AI chatbots may serve as a first step toward acknowledging their mental health challenges.

Experts Warn Against Over-Reliance On AI
 

Despite the encouraging findings, researchers strongly caution against treating AI chatbots as substitutes for trained mental health professionals.

The study emphasised that ChatGPT was not designed for therapeutic purposes and may sometimes provide responses that are inaccurate, inappropriate or lack emotional nuance.

“Anonymous digital tools carry important ethical considerations,” the research team noted, warning that over-reliance on AI could delay access to professional care in serious cases.

Hannah stressed the importance of critical and responsible use, saying users should treat AI chatbots as supplementary tools rather than primary mental health support systems.

Need For Further Research And Safeguards

The researchers called for more extensive studies to better understand how AI can safely and effectively complement mental health services. Clear guidelines, ethical safeguards and integration with professional care systems will be essential as AI tools become more widely used.

Experts believe that, if developed responsibly, AI could help reduce stigma, encourage early conversations about mental health and guide users toward appropriate professional support when needed.

As mental health challenges continue to rise globally, the study highlights the growing role technology may play in reshaping how people seek help—while reinforcing that human care remains irreplaceable.