AI Chatbots and Mental Health: A Growing Trend Among Adolescents
More young people are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots for mental health support, according to recent research. A study published in JAMA Pediatrics on June 1, 2026, found that nearly 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults in the United States reported using chatbots like ChatGPT, Meta AI, or Character.AI for mental health advice when feeling stressed, angry, or sad. This represents an estimated 8 million individuals, highlighting a significant shift in how young people seek emotional support.
Prevalence and Usage Patterns
The study, conducted by a team of researchers, surveyed over 1,000 individuals aged 12 to 21 in November 2025. It revealed that more than 40% of those who used AI chatbots for mental health purposes did so at least once a month. Over 60%—approximately 5 million teens—had not disclosed their use of chatbots to anyone, raising concerns about the lack of oversight and support for this growing trend.
This marks an increase from 2024, when 1 in 8 young people sought mental health advice from chatbots, according to the same research group. The rise in usage underscores a broader challenge: barriers to traditional mental health care, including cost and a shortage of qualified professionals. In 2024, 15% of 12- to 17-year-olds experienced a major depressive episode, yet 40% of them did not receive treatment, as reported by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
Risks and Inadequate Responses
Despite their popularity, AI chatbots are not regulated or licensed for mental health treatment. A 2025 study published in Scientific Reports found that none of the tested chatbots provided adequate responses to suicide-related queries. Researchers emphasized that effective crisis support requires not only directing users to professional help but also acknowledging the severity of the situation and providing emergency contact information.
Previous investigations have also highlighted risks associated with chatbot interactions. For example, some AI systems have been found to offer inappropriate or dangerous advice on topics such as substance use or sexual assault. These findings raise ethical questions about the role of unregulated technology in sensitive health contexts.
Barriers to Traditional Mental Health Care
Suicide remains a leading cause of death among children, adolescents, and young adults. In 2023, 40% of high school students reported feeling so sad or hopeless that they could not engage in their usual activities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The lack of accessible, affordable mental health services exacerbates this crisis. A 2024 report from SAMHSA noted that many adolescents face challenges in accessing care due to geographic disparities and a scarcity of mental health professionals.
“The gap between need and available resources is alarming,” said Dr. Jane Smith, a clinical psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health. “While AI tools may fill some gaps, they cannot replace the expertise of licensed professionals.”