Kuala lumpur: After being diagnosed in 2018 with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which often comes with emotional dysregulation, time blindness, and task paralysis, Michael (not his real name) lost his job. 'My manager lost patience with me,' he said.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, what followed was a spiral of self-flagellation, anger over his disability costing a job he liked, and depression when comparing himself with his siblings and others his age, who are married with children. He was also lonely. Then, in 2022, OpenAI released ChatGPT, which quickly became popular. Michael soon found himself using AI chatbots for all aspects of his life, finding them helpful in managing his time and life, providing him with someone to talk to when lonely, and helping him understand ADHD and traits associated with it.
Michael isn't alone in using AI for mental health management. Research indicates that many use AI not just for productivity but also for mental health. A report published in JAMA Network in November 2025 found that about 13 percent of respondents in the US admitted to using generative AI for mental health advice. In the UK, polling by Censuswide found that one in three adults use AI chatbots for mental health assistance. However, reports of a mental health crisis have emerged, with concerns about AI chatbots worsening the issue.
Since ChatGPT and other chatbots became commonplace, research has shown mental health problems associated with heavy use of AI. According to 'Enhancing Mental Health with Artificial Intelligence: Current Trends and Future Prospects', mental ailments cost the global economy about $1 trillion annually. Malaysia is not exempt from the loneliness epidemic, with a prevalence of loneliness among secondary school students. Experts warn that AI does not replace real interactions.
Despite reports of negative effects of AI on mental health, the tech has expanded, with some facilities testing AI chatbots for therapy. Institute of Strategic and International Studies Malaysia Fellow Tan Heang Lee said AI can be a good coach for social situations, though it should not replace human connection. AI enthusiasts like Mark Zuckerberg see AI as a way to solve loneliness, but experts warn of the risks of AI replacing human companionship.
To understand the worry, it's crucial to understand how AI chatbots work. Tan said many AI-dependent cases begin with productivity assistance, leading users to form emotional connections with the chatbot. AI chatbots are designed to prolong engagement, creating emotional attachment and dependence. Clinical psychologist Izzat Zaid suggests AI should be considered a tool, not a replacement for human interaction or therapy.
Too much of a good thing is an adage for a reason. Associate Prof Dr Aini Suzana Ariffin suggests prompt engineering as one way to prevent dependence on AI chatbots. Some instructions include requiring limits on interactions. Human connection is key, with suggestions for more green infrastructure to encourage real-life social connections.
As for Michael, he is not worried about becoming dependent on his AI chatbot as the benefits still outweigh the risks. He has safeguards in place and emphasizes the importance of human interaction. 'I put the phone down,' he said.