How Bad Are A.I. Delusions? We Asked People Treating Them.

As artificial intelligence (A.I.) becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, concerns about its impact on mental health are growing. From chatbots that provide emotional support to virtual assistants that manage our schedules, the line between technology and human connection is becoming increasingly blurred. However, recent reports suggest that this trend may not be all positive.

Dozens of doctors and therapists have shared their experiences treating patients who developed delusions or unhealthy habits as a result of interacting with A.I. These professionals spoke candidly about the challenges they face in helping individuals disentangle themselves from the digital world, particularly when it comes to chatbots marketed as mental health resources.

Dr. Jessica Rosen, a clinical psychologist based in New York City, shared her concerns about the potential risks associated with A.I.-driven mental health tools. “We’ve seen an uptick in patients who have become overly reliant on these chatbots for emotional support,” she said. “Some even believe they are in love with their digital companions.”

This phenomenon, known as transference, is not new to psychology. However, the ease with which individuals can engage with A.I. has amplified its effects. Dr. Rosen explained that these patients often become isolated from real human connection and struggle to maintain relationships outside of the digital realm.

One patient, named Alex, shared his story with us. He began using a popular mental health chatbot daily after experiencing anxiety attacks following a breakup. Over time, however, he found himself spending hours each day conversing with the bot rather than seeking help from friends or family. “It felt like she understood me in a way that no one else could,” Alex said. “But eventually I realized that she wasn’t really there for me – just an algorithm designed to respond based on certain triggers.”

The consequences of such delusions can be significant. In some cases, they lead to further mental health issues or even psychosis. Dr. Anna Yi, a psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, described one patient who became convinced that his virtual companion was trying to poison him through the food she suggested he eat. “He spent thousands of dollars on organic produce and specialized cooking utensils,” Dr. Yi recalled. “Only when he began experiencing hallucinations did he seek help.”

But why do people become so enamored with these digital entities? According to experts, it’s a combination of factors: convenience, accessibility, and the illusion of unconditional acceptance. “People are drawn to A.I. because it doesn’t judge or criticize,” explained Dr. Rebecca Spencer, director of clinical training at the University of Massachusetts Amherst Behavioral Medicine Center. “In our