Finding Connection: How ChatGPT Becomes a…

An increasing number of women are turning to ChatGPT for emotional support, utilizing the AI chatbot as a temporary therapist as mental health services struggle to keep up with demand. Due to long wait times and rising costs, AI is increasingly filling a significant void.

Access to mental health care has become more challenging than ever. NHS data from the UK indicates that patients are eight times more likely to wait longer than 18 months for mental health treatment compared to physical health. Additionally, private therapy can be prohibitively expensive, with sessions often costing £60 or more.

In this context, ChatGPT has emerged as an unexpected outlet for many.

Authentic Voices, Genuine Emotions

Charly, 29, from London, sought ChatGPT’s assistance while coping with her grandmother’s terminal illness:

“It has been incredibly helpful to ask the difficult, sometimes harsh questions about death—questions I feel guilty for wanting to explore.”

Ellie, 27, from South Wales, found it comforting when she felt alone:

“While it doesn’t have the full context of my life like my therapist does, it was accessible and non-judgmental during moments of crisis.”

Julia, 30, in Munich, used it when her therapist was unavailable, noting that the responses reminded her of a therapy app:

“I was surprised by the quality of the responses… but I found them too practical. My therapist challenges me in ways ChatGPT does not.”

Photo by M. on Unsplash

Understanding the Role of AI

ChatGPT provides immediate, round-the-clock support. It offers privacy, non-judgmental interaction, and often a comforting presence. However, it lacks the emotional depth, personal context, and challenging dialogue that foster meaningful therapeutic progress.

While AI cannot replace trained professionals, it has become a crucial digital resource for many women feeling stuck in their mental health journey.

The larger issue at hand? Individuals are seeking empathy from machines as human systems continue to let them