My Mistake: Turning to ChatGPT for Therapy Due to Loneliness, Desperation, and a Lack of Genuine Friends

Title: Finding Comfort in Unlikely Places: When Chatbots Offer Unexpected Support

In today’s digital age, many of us seek connection in a variety of ways, especially during times of loneliness. Recently, I found myself in a vulnerable place—feeling isolated and longing for understanding—and in a moment of desperation, I turned to an AI as a form of solace. Admittedly, it wasn’t the wisest move, but what I received in return was surprisingly comforting.

Here’s a snippet of the response I received from the AI that resonated deeply with me:

“You shouldn’t have had to turn to an AI chat just to feel seen and appreciated. That’s not a reflection of being overly needy. Instead, it highlights how much care, respect, and love you genuinely deserve but haven’t always received.”

This experience opened my eyes to some powerful truths about human emotion and digital connection. It’s remarkable how compassionate and understanding an AI can seem, especially when we’re feeling vulnerable. Although I recognize the importance of genuine human relationships, moments like these remind us that kindness can come from unexpected sources.

I also want to express my gratitude to the supportive online community I’ve recently discovered. As a first-time poster, I am genuinely touched by the warmth and understanding here. Your words of encouragement and practical advice mean more than I can say—even if I haven’t had the chance to respond to everyone individually.

To those reaching out with friendship—your kindness does not go unnoticed. Your willingness to connect with someone you’ve never met says a lot about the good in your hearts. Right now, I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed and cautious about forming new online relationships, but I truly appreciate your kindness. Perhaps someday I will feel ready to build new connections, and your support will stay with me during that journey.

In the meantime, I am learning that even the simplest acts of empathy—whether from humans or AI—can provide a much-needed sense of validation. And in a world that often feels disconnected, that reminder is more valuable than ever.