The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health: Opportunities, Challenges, and Ethical Considerations
Disciplines
Computer Engineering
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Mental health issues are becoming more common worldwide, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing shortage of mental health professionals. AI has the potential to help bridge this gap by offering scalable, affordable, and accessible mental health support. This research examines how AI-driven tools like chatbots and natural language processing systems are being used in mental health care and evaluates their effectiveness and limitations. Case studies like Wysa and HAILEY demonstrate that AI can be useful for people with mild to moderate anxiety and depression. This study analyzes case studies and existing literature to assess how AI supports mental health care while identifying potential risks and ethical concerns. However, AI tools have major limitations, including a lack of human empathy, privacy concerns, and potential biases in their models. While AI is valuable for diagnostic support, therapist training, and crisis intervention, it cannot replace human clinicians—especially for individuals dealing with severe mental health conditions. Findings suggest that AI should complement, rather than replace, human professionals to maximize effectiveness. This paper also highlights the ethical concerns and policies needed to make AI integration safe and effective. Future research should focus on enhancing AI’s emotional intelligence, reducing bias, and ensuring responsible use in mental health care
Academic department under which the project should be listed
CCSE - Computer Science
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Khan, Md Abdullah Al Hafiz
Poster for the Research Paper
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health: Opportunities, Challenges, and Ethical Considerations
Mental health issues are becoming more common worldwide, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing shortage of mental health professionals. AI has the potential to help bridge this gap by offering scalable, affordable, and accessible mental health support. This research examines how AI-driven tools like chatbots and natural language processing systems are being used in mental health care and evaluates their effectiveness and limitations. Case studies like Wysa and HAILEY demonstrate that AI can be useful for people with mild to moderate anxiety and depression. This study analyzes case studies and existing literature to assess how AI supports mental health care while identifying potential risks and ethical concerns. However, AI tools have major limitations, including a lack of human empathy, privacy concerns, and potential biases in their models. While AI is valuable for diagnostic support, therapist training, and crisis intervention, it cannot replace human clinicians—especially for individuals dealing with severe mental health conditions. Findings suggest that AI should complement, rather than replace, human professionals to maximize effectiveness. This paper also highlights the ethical concerns and policies needed to make AI integration safe and effective. Future research should focus on enhancing AI’s emotional intelligence, reducing bias, and ensuring responsible use in mental health care