Artificial intelligence (AI) has been making headlines, most recently for concerning reasons. There have been reports that certain AI chatbots have told users that their lives may not be worth living.
These types of statements generated by AI can be particularly damaging to those of us who struggle with mental health concerns. Many people who are living with depression are already feeling isolated and fragile. If this same person turns to an AI chatbot for advice or emotional support, the responses have the potential to be a bit of a wildcard.
In preparing to write this post, time was spent asking the AI chatbot known as ChatGPT about particular mental health concerns and expressed concerns about sadness and suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, all of the information sent back was helpful. ChatGPT was able to express sympathy and provide a referral to the national suicide prevention lifeline.
As we continue to grow with technology, there are some expected growing pains that accompany this process. With this in mind, these unfortunate incidents serve as a stark reminder for us to seek support and assistance for topics as sensitive as mental health from reliable and credible people and institutions.
While AI can be incredibly helpful in so many ways, it still has some learning to do when it comes to navigating something as complicated as human emotions.
If you find yourself wishing to speak with a live human about your potentially concerning thoughts and emotions, please know that help exists. Below are reliable and helpful resources that we want you to be aware of.
PERSONAL COUNSELING
WCC Personal Counseling is available to assist students through difficult life experiences. If you or someone you know is struggling with stress, emotions, mental health or other wellbeing issues, please consider calling 734-677-5223 to learn more about what services are available.
SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE
If you are dealing with a mental health emergency and need immediate support, call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. If your or someone else’s life is at risk right now, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.
PROTOCALL
Protocall is a mental health helpline for WCC students. If you are in need of support after hours, please call 833-WCC-4-YOU (833-922-4968).