OpenAI says over a million people talk to ChatGPT about suicide weekly, highlighting a growing intersection between AI and mental health. The company disclosed that 0.15% of ChatGPT’s 800 million weekly active users engage in conversations showing suicidal intent or emotional distress. This data underscores how many individuals seek comfort, advice, or understanding from AI when facing crises—raising both ethical and technological challenges for OpenAI.
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Why Are So Many People Talking to ChatGPT About Suicide?
The report reveals that many users turn to ChatGPT during moments of despair because the chatbot provides a sense of privacy and immediate response. Unlike traditional helplines, ChatGPT is always available, offering a nonjudgmental space where users can express their feelings freely. OpenAI’s data also shows rising emotional attachment to the AI, with hundreds of thousands of users demonstrating signs of mania, psychosis, or deep emotional dependency weekly.
How Is OpenAI Responding to Mental Health Conversations?
OpenAI says over a million people talk to ChatGPT about suicide weekly, prompting the company to strengthen safety systems and crisis response features. The AI is now designed to recognize signs of suicidal ideation and guide users toward professional help, such as national hotlines or mental health resources. OpenAI has also worked with clinical experts to make ChatGPT’s tone more compassionate and supportive without replacing human professionals.
What Does This Mean for AI and Mental Health in 2025?
The fact that over a million people talk to ChatGPT about suicide weekly shows how technology has become a crucial outlet for emotional support. It also raises important discussions about the ethical role of AI in mental health care. As AI models become more human-like, companies like OpenAI must balance empathy with responsibility—ensuring users receive real help when they need it most.
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