The article discusses growing concerns among mental health professionals about the increasing use of AI chatbots like ChatGPT for emotional support and mental health advice.

While these tools offer convenience, experts warn they lack the clinical judgment, therapeutic relationship, and ability to interpret nonverbal cues that human professionals provide.

Professors Christopher Szabo and Melané Van Zyl from the South African Society of Psychiatrists highlight risks such as inaccurate information, false reassurance, and potential harm if AI is used in crisis situations.

They emphasize that AI can assist with administrative tasks or data analysis but cannot replace the nuanced understanding and ethical responsibility of human therapists.Privacy concerns and dependency on chatbots are also raised, with warnings that relying solely on AI may delay critical professional intervention.

The piece concludes that while digital tools can support mental health care, they should complement—not substitute—traditional therapeutic approaches.