The first trial of generative AI therapy shows it might help with depression
1 min read
Summary
A new clinical trial suggests that AI therapy bots are as effective as human therapists for treating patients with depression, anxiety and eating disorders.
The study, which was published in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that participants with depression experienced a 51% reduction in symptoms, while those with anxiety saw a 31% reduction and those at risk of eating disorders had a 19% reduction in body image and weight concerns.
These results were roughly equivalent to those seen in traditional psychotherapy trials, but achieved in approximately half the time.
However, the researchers behind the study warned that most AI therapy bots are not trained on evidence-based practices and require significant oversight, meaning that their widespread adoption could present challenges.
Moreover, the proliferation of more general AI chatbots, which are not designed for therapeutic purposes, could also provide some support for those seeking help with their metal health.