AI Chatbot Use Linked to Depression
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Jan 22, 2026 · Last updated Jan 22, 2026
The study's findings could lead to increased scrutiny and potential regulation of Artificial intelligence technologies, particularly regarding their impact on mental health. This might affect the public perception and adoption rates of Artificial intelligence products, potentially influencing the stock performance of companies heavily invested in this sector.
A study published in JAMA Network Open on Wednesday revealed a link between daily use of Artificial intelligence chatbots and higher rates of depression among adults in the United States. The research, which surveyed 20,847 US adults between April and May 2025, found that daily Artificial intelligence users had a 30% higher chance of experiencing at least moderate depression. Younger demographics appeared particularly vulnerable. However, researchers emphasized that further investigation is needed to establish a causal relationship and understand why the effects vary across age groups, as it is currently unclear whether Artificial intelligence causes depression or if depressed individuals are more inclined to use digital interactions.
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