More and more individuals are turning to chatbots, such as ChatGPT, for support, but experts warn of potential risks, especially for those dealing with mental health issues. The Association of Telephone Listening Centers of Quebec (ACETDQ) is cautioning against this trend.
ACETDQ, comprising 22 listening centers like Tel-Aide scattered across Quebec, focuses on aiding individuals with problems before they escalate into crises or suicidal thoughts, explains Pierre Plourde, the association’s coordinator.
While chatbots have been in existence for some time, their popularity has surged in the past year, with conversation apps playing a more significant role. Despite recognizing the virtues of these apps, Plourde underscores that they can hinder genuine human connection.
As part of Listening Day 2025, ACETDQ aims to emphasize the importance of human listening, arguing that the artificial empathy of chatbots cannot replace the genuine empathy provided by a human listener.
Loneliness is a prevalent issue in Quebec, and according to Plourde, chatbot mechanisms are not equipped to address such deep-rooted emotional concerns. The association raises concerns about the potential risks of maintaining extended relationships with AI, especially for those struggling with mental health.
The allure of chatbots may stem from limited access to mental health resources, with the convenience of immediate responses being a significant draw. However, Plourde stresses that these services are not without flaws and may not offer the same level of support as human interaction.
Despite the increasing demand for crisis lines, which received nearly 165,000 calls in Quebec last year, immediate availability remains a challenge compared to the round-the-clock accessibility of chatbots.
Keyphrase: Mental Health Risks
