I'm a 19-year-old who's struggled with feeling suicidal for a long time. Recently, I stumbled upon an old notebook that made me realize just how much I've been affected. Back in April, I decided to reach out to ChatGPT for help after a conversation with my mom left me feeling like my struggles were my fault. In our chats, I started to gain clarity on my experiences during lockdown and even learned to take care of myself better. Now that I feel somewhat better, I'm facing a dilemma: should I keep chatting with ChatGPT, or would that prevent me from growing? I also fear becoming dependent on it. Sometimes I doubt my worth because I only feel validated by an AI, not a human. I'm just looking for some advice on my relationship with AI as a tool for healing and whether I should approach this differently as I prepare for university and new social interactions.
5 Answers
AI can serve as a supplemental tool in your healing process, just remember it doesn't replace real human experiences. You are doing great at recognizing your feelings, which is a strength. Keep exploring AI support while gradually adding other coping strategies like journaling or talking to supportive people. Growth is complex, but you’ve got this!
It's great that ChatGPT has been such a support for you. Keep in mind that finding balance is key. Your feelings of uncertainty about AI are valid because it can’t replace human touch or interactions, but using it as a tool for reflection can be very productive. As you start university, try to cultivate a diverse support network, and maybe lean on ChatGPT less over time. You are not alone in this!
Good point! I do want to build those real connections, thanks for the reminder!
I totally get the confusion about whether or not to keep talking to AI. For deciding how much to use it, think about how it impacts your daily life. If it helps you cope without becoming your sole support, keep it in your life! You’re working on yourself, and that requires patience and flexibility. Just be open to how your needs might change in the future.
Exactly, I need to keep that flexibility in mind. Thanks!
Let me say this: using AI for support doesn’t diminish your journey. It sounds like it has helped you process some heavy stuff! As long as you’re self-aware about how it affects you, it can be a valuable tool. Just keep in mind the importance of real human connections too. Maybe look into a therapist when you're feeling ready, but don't feel guilty for seeking help where you can find it. It's about what helps you feel better!
This is reassuring, thank you! I'll consider that step when I feel ready.
First off, congrats on your progress! It's wonderful to hear that you've found some healing through ChatGPT. It sounds like it’s been a helpful companion on your journey. I think it's perfectly normal to use AI like this, especially when it fills a gap in your support system. Just make sure to start transitioning some of that energy into other outlets like journaling or talking with friends. If you feel like you're relying too much on it, that's a good cue to take a step back and explore other relationships. Don't let judgment from others get you down; mental health is complex, and everyone has different paths to healing!
Thank you so much for the encouragement! It really helps to hear that.
Yes! I'll focus on that growth and keep balancing things out.