I appreciate that you, as a board-certified psychiatrist (MD) are open to exploring how AI and social media can help in the mental health crisis. We only hear about how it harms, and certainly there are many ways in which it does so, but I think with qualified professionals like yourself, AI can be a tool for people struggling. There is a mental health crisis, particularly among teens and not enough health care providers. We need to explore creative ways to help those in crisis. Right now in the US they are on 6 month wait lists.
Thank you for your thoughtful response. In Germany, there is also a waiting list of several months.
I must say that I hope my professional experience contributes to assessing the benefits and risks of how this technology is applied in mental health. However, this requires a discussion in which professionals, clients, and society as a whole come together to form an opinion on what is reasonable and what is not.
Personally, I view this space as an opportunity to initiate this discussion and humbly share my thoughts. Thank you for being part of this.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I also am fascinated by online personas and the disassociation elements.
In addition, as an AI enthusiast (when used appropriately and safely) I’ve often thought of how technology could help those who as you mention may not have access to mental health care or support systems. Whether it be financial , other reasons such as isolation or fear of asking for help it’s an interesting topic and thought.
Dear Rebecca, thank you very much for sharing your feedback and thoughts.
I agree with you; digital tools can offer benefits by breaking down barriers and increasing access for those who often hesitate to seek help due to their circumstances. This is where opportunities arise, providing a more diverse range of therapy options—not merely replacing human contact.
Interesting piece. I can’t seem to open the comment section other than this one on Notes. Nor can I open the main page of your blog here.
I appreciate that you, as a board-certified psychiatrist (MD) are open to exploring how AI and social media can help in the mental health crisis. We only hear about how it harms, and certainly there are many ways in which it does so, but I think with qualified professionals like yourself, AI can be a tool for people struggling. There is a mental health crisis, particularly among teens and not enough health care providers. We need to explore creative ways to help those in crisis. Right now in the US they are on 6 month wait lists.
Dear Celeste,
Thank you for your thoughtful response. In Germany, there is also a waiting list of several months.
I must say that I hope my professional experience contributes to assessing the benefits and risks of how this technology is applied in mental health. However, this requires a discussion in which professionals, clients, and society as a whole come together to form an opinion on what is reasonable and what is not.
Personally, I view this space as an opportunity to initiate this discussion and humbly share my thoughts. Thank you for being part of this.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I also am fascinated by online personas and the disassociation elements.
In addition, as an AI enthusiast (when used appropriately and safely) I’ve often thought of how technology could help those who as you mention may not have access to mental health care or support systems. Whether it be financial , other reasons such as isolation or fear of asking for help it’s an interesting topic and thought.
Dear Rebecca, thank you very much for sharing your feedback and thoughts.
I agree with you; digital tools can offer benefits by breaking down barriers and increasing access for those who often hesitate to seek help due to their circumstances. This is where opportunities arise, providing a more diverse range of therapy options—not merely replacing human contact.
I don’t have time to read now. But I look forward to hearing your perspective.