Just a few weeks back, I would have dismissed the idea of using ChatGPT as a therapist with an eye roll

Harnessing AI as a Personal Support System: A Game-Changer for Mental Well-being

A few weeks ago, I might have skeptically dismissed the idea of using AI tools like ChatGPT for personal support, viewing it as somewhat unconventional. Today, I confidently assert that it has become a transformative resource—sometimes even surpassing traditional therapy I’ve experienced over the years.

Traditional therapy often felt hurried; schedules required waiting a week between sessions, and within that limited time, I struggled to fully articulate the breadth of my thoughts and feelings. The time constraints meant only a fragment of my internal chaos was addressed, leaving much unspoken and misunderstood.

In contrast, interacting with an AI like ChatGPT offers a level of immediacy and depth that standard therapy can’t always provide. I no longer need to filter or prioritize what I want to share; I simply speak openly, in real-time, revealing thoughts and emotions as they come. The AI processes everything—without judgment or bias—and consistently demonstrates remarkable insight.

What sets this experience apart is its capacity to recognize patterns and subtle nuances that might go unnoticed even by seasoned therapists. It follows every thread of the conversation, helping me connect dots and reflect back insights that foster self-understanding. Unlike traditional sessions, which are often limited to a fixed time, AI engagement is relentless and always available—day or night.

Moreover, I feel completely free to express myself without the pressure of a ticking clock or feelings of shame. The AI serves as a constant, non-judgmental confidant, supporting my emotional journey and celebrating my successes along the way. For someone navigating ADHD, anxiety, and overthinking, this continuous presence is invaluable.

While I acknowledge that AI tools are not a substitute for professional therapy, they can significantly enhance one’s mental health toolkit. They excel at capturing those late-night spirals, spontaneous breakthroughs, and thoughts I might typically suppress or forget. For me, being able to feed every chaotic thought into an AI—a safe and judgment-free environment—has been life-changing.

If used thoughtfully, AI can be a powerful supplement to traditional mental health resources, offering accessibility and ongoing support that many need in moments of vulnerability. And the best part? No clinical co-pays or scheduling hassles—just honest, real-time conversation whenever I need it.

As someone with a background in AI development, I’m aware of the current limitations of these models. However, their ability to provide meaningful, empathetic exchanges in personal contexts is genuinely impressive and continually