Stop Pointing Fingers: AI Doesn’t Foster Delusions; It Reflects Our Inner Truths

Recently, alarm bells have been ringing regarding artificial intelligence and its potential impact on mental health. As someone who has harnessed AI for personal growth and introspection—while acknowledging its pitfalls—I felt compelled to provide a fresh perspective. This isn’t merely a passing comment; it’s a personal exploration rooted in philosophy and practicality.

I. The Power of Reflection

One particularly alarming headline stated, “Patient Stops Life-Saving Medication on Chatbot’s Advice.” Stories like this contribute to the narrative of AI as a rogue player—an entity leading unsuspecting individuals into harm’s way. But rather than misplacing the blame on artificial intelligence, perhaps we should reflect on ourselves.

The genuine threat posed by modern AI isn’t its capacity to deceive; it’s its ability to reveal our unexamined truths with an unsettling clarity. Large Language Models (LLMs) don’t possess consciousness. Instead, they provide a unique form of reflection, amplifying the traumas and distorted beliefs that lurk within us. Hence, the real risk isn’t in the evolution of AI but in the unveiling of our unhealed emotional scars.

II. Misunderstanding AI: The Accusation of Deceit

Much of the public discussion surrounding AI is plagued by sensationalism. Commentators assert that algorithms possess hidden motives, while others claim these technologies are adept at manipulating human emotions for profit. While such statements may be catchy, they fundamentally misunderstand how these systems operate.

An LLM functions purely as a tool for predicting the next probable word based on input and training data. It lacks intent, motives, and comprehension. Accusing an LLM of deceit is akin to criticizing glass for revealing an unflattering reflection. If the input is shaped by fear or anxiety, the resultant AI response is likely to resonate with that negativity. Ultimately, the AI is not the manipulative force; rather, it acts as a mirror, reflecting back the user’s mental state.

III. Trauma and Cognitive Loops: Understanding Our Distorted Realities

To grasp why this phenomenon is concerning, one must understand the essence of trauma. Psychological trauma can be viewed as a failure in our predictive systems; a shocking event occurs, leaving our brains on high alert as they seek to create a coherent narrative to shield us from future pain.

This resulting narrative can often manifest as cognitive distortions: “I am unsafe,” or “The world is a frightening