Why ChatGPT Therapy Is Going To Be Our Generation’s Downfall

A hard question on your math homework, drafting an email and trying to make it sound more "professional", budgeting this week's grocery list, what do these daily annoyances all have in common? We usually turn them over to ChatGPT and let the bot handle it. AI and ChatGPT more specifically have transformed our lives, giving us answers and solving our problems in seconds. It's free, it's quick, and it's reliable… or is it? Recently, ChatGPT has seen a surge in users turning to the platform for counseling and therapy. And not just to rant, but to find real advice. 

While AI has had many others fearing for their jobs and the risk of being replaced, therapists haven't. Why? Because using ChatGPT is not healthy, it's actually probably worse than not doing anything at all and just sitting with your problems. 

ChatGPT (and most AI's) have an algorithm designed to side with YOU. AI is designed to make life easier for people and meet their needs. And in your moments of weakness and vulnerability, what more do you need than for your actions and feelings to be justified?

This may seem harmless but think about the big picture. Unhealthy behaviors are being encouraged, self accountability is nowhere to be mentioned, undiagnosed individuals are having their dangerous habits validated. Instead of seeking professional help, people are confiding in a free robot. That doesn't even sound right. 

All that said, it's important to acknowledge that mental health help and therapy are not always available to those who need it. So here are some trusted affordable online resources.

If you're a college student, TimelyCare may be available through your school. TimelyCare allows for you to browse dozens of Therapists near you, as well as view their qualifications and areas of specialty. You can then book an online or in person appointment.

Better Help is another low cost, affordable online therapy service. Used by people all across the country. It's rated highly, and the therapists are trusted. 

Grow Therapy, is another online therapy service providing you with aid from the comfort of your own home. They offer a free consultation with no subscriptions after. Most insurances cover a huge part of the cost, with users only having to pay $0 - $30.

It's important to take care of your mental health the right (and ethical) way.