It is absolutely right that children “need a human, not a bot” for mental health support (‘I feel it’s a friend’: quarter of teenagers turn to AI chatbots for mental health support, 9 December). Overuse of AI for mental health support could well lead to the next public health emergency if the government does not take urgent action.

We shouldn’t be surprised that teenagers are turning to tools such as ChatGPT in this way. NHS waiting lists are rising, and one in five young people are living with a mental health condition. It is unacceptable that young people who require support for their mental health are unable to access the services they need, before they reach crisis point.

AI cannot replace the vital human element in mental health care. It does offer many benefits, but it should be thoughtfully integrated to support human therapist-led care.

The government must take note of this stark warning and commit to expanding the mental health workforce to ensure that teenagers who are struggling can access timely, in-person support before the potential consequences are felt by the next generation.
Dr Roman Raczka
British Psychological Society