A new survey has revealed that nearly half of young Europeans are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots for emotional support, with many finding it easier to discuss their mental health with a bot than with a healthcare professional.
Survey Findings Across Europe
The research, conducted across France, Germany, Sweden, and Ireland, polled individuals aged 11 to 25. It found that 51 per cent of respondents found it “easy” to discuss mental health with a chatbot, compared to 49 per cent for healthcare professionals. While friends and parents remain the primary choices for personal discussions, 90 per cent of those surveyed had engaged with AI, valuing its constant availability and non-judgmental nature.
Growing Concerns About Youth Mental Health
The survey also highlighted significant concerns regarding youth mental health. Approximately 28 per cent of participants showed signs of suspected generalised anxiety disorder, underscoring the pressing need for accessible support systems.
Experts caution against relying solely on AI for mental health support. Despite AI's ability to produce high-quality responses, they stress that it should not replace human relationships or professional care. The findings suggest that while AI can serve as a useful tool, it is not a substitute for comprehensive mental health services.
The full report indicates that young Europeans are increasingly comfortable with AI-driven interactions, but the importance of human connection remains paramount.
