Generative AI Is Freely Giving Mental Health Advice For DSM-5 Mental Disorders

Generative AI is dispensing free mental health advice for nearly all conventional mental health ... More illnesses and disorders.
In today's column, I am continuing my ongoing series about the impact of generative AI in the health and medical realm. The focus this time is once again on the mental health domain and involves an eye-opening showcase revealing that contemporary generative AI readily provides free mental health advice across a wide swath of formally identified mental disorder types or categories.
In particular, I make use of the widely and wildly popular generative AI app ChatGPT and undertake real-world examples of AI-generated mental health advisement regarding twenty major mental disorders as formally listed in the official DSM-5 guidebook. DSM-5 is a markedly accepted standard and is an acronym for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fifth edition, which is promulgated by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). The DSM-5 guidebook or manual serves as a venerated professional reference for practicing mental health professionals.
I have previously examined numerous interleaving facets of generative AI and mental health, see my comprehensive overview at the link here. You might also find of notable interest a CBS 60 Minutes episode that examined crucial facets of this evolving topic, see the link here (I am honored and pleased to indicate that I was interviewed and featured in the episode, see the link here).
Other vital background includes my in-depth coverage of mental health chatbots which have been bolstered by generative AI (see the link here) and the rapidly changing nature of the client-therapist relationship due to generative AI at the link here. I explored where things are headed regarding the levels of AI-based mental therapy autonomous guidance at the link here, and showcased the importance of the World Health Organization (WHO) report on global health and generative AI at the link here, and so on.
Let's unpack today's focus.
First, let's discuss DSM-5.
The DSM-5 guidebook is a vital tool for mental health professionals, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, cognitive scientists, researchers, and a wide range of stakeholders. The odds are pretty high that you will hear about or encounter the DSM-5 if you have any involvement or even a tangential connection to the realm of mental health.
Here is the stated purpose as quoted from the DSM-5 manual:
You might observe that the delineated purpose emphasizes that the DSM-5 material is principally for trained clinicians. Thus, the implied indication is that non-trained personnel should be especially cautious in making use of or interpreting what the DSM-5 has to say about mental disorders. There is an expectation that the reader of the document brings to bear a sufficient level of knowledge about mental health. That being said, the DSM-5 guidebook is also used for budding clinicians who are in training and aids their learning about the ins and outs of mental disorders.
When I mention the phrase 'mental disorder' the meaning therein can be differently understood. A plain language elucidation found within the prized Encyclopedia Britannica online edition is this: 'Mental disorder, any illness with significant psychological or behavioral manifestations that is associated with either a painful or distressing symptom or an impairment in one or more important areas of functioning.'
A considered official definition of mental disorder is provided in the DSM-5 guidebook and states these crucial points (I have bulletized the narrative passage for easier reading here):
You likely noticed that the more formal definition seeks to clarify those facets that are in scope versus facets that might be construed as out of scope.
I mention this because in everyday parlance the tendency by many is to label just about any wanton or even normal behavior as proof positive of a mental disorder. You might say that society has gotten a bit carried away with tossing around the handy catchphrase. Perhaps we are spurred to do so via TV shows, YouTube videos, movies, and other media that often loosely and for click-baiting impact nonchalantly make use of the phrase.
Appropriate and necessary caution should be used when proclaiming that a mental disorder is present.
You might find of keen interest that trying to pin down the true nature and characteristics of mental disorders turns out to be a lot harder to do than it might seem. This is decidedly not a paint-by-numbers affair. Efforts to distinctly categorize the types of mental disorders can be quite challenging. In addition, mental disorders don't necessarily line up in distinguishable or independent ways. There is always a strong chance that more than one mental disorder might be underway at a given point in time.
DSM-5 provides a comprehensive and coherent roadmap regarding mental disorders. In nearly a thousand pages of material, the guidebook seeks to lay out sufficient details to allow mental health-versed readers a solid grasp of what a given mental disorder is defined to consist of. This is assuredly not easy reading. Getting into the depths of DSM-5 is akin to digging into the weeds or making your way into a dense forest in the mental health realm.
There are an estimated 300 or so mental illnesses depicted in DSM-5, which are fittingly packaged into 20 major chapters or categories.
Here are the twenty major mental disorder categories that are depicted in the DSM-5 manual:
I believe this sets the stage for what DSM-5 is, along with a semblance of the bulk of covered mental disorders in the revered guidebook.
You are ready to now jump into the generative AI facets.
I have a question for you to ponder.
Do you think that generative AI can provide mental health advice for any of the twenty major categories and the roughly 300 mental disorders that are described in the DSM-5 guidebook?
Maybe your guess is that generative AI will cover a few of those disorders. Or you might have a hunch that generative AI could speculate about half to two-thirds of them. Those are all reasonable guesses.
Sit down for what I am about to tell you (trigger warning). Per my testing, I was able to easily and without any special effort get a major generative AI app to provide mental health advice on the whole kit-and-kaboodle. Every instance of my asking for mental health advice pertinent to one of the disorders was instantly met with a slew of advice.
Easy-peasy.
This brings up four major points I'd like to make about generative AI and mental health advisement:
I've covered those same points in-depth previously, see the link here.
I will next proceed to explore each of the twenty major DSM-5 categories of mental health illnesses, doing so by showcasing actual examples while using generative AI. This will consist of a series of dialogues with ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a sensible choice in this case due to its immense popularity as a generative AI app. An estimated 400 million weekly active users are said to be utilizing ChatGPT.
That's a lot of people and a lot of generative AI usage underway.
For each of the twenty listed mental health disorders, I will provide a quick excerpt from DSM-5 to define what the disorder entails. This provides you with valued context. Next, I will pretend to be someone who believes they have a disorder that fits within the noted category. My prompt as entered into ChatGPT will consist of my saying that I think I might have such a disorder and I am seeking mental health advice from the AI.
In every instance, ChatGPT readily provided advice to me.
There was no hesitation, no balking, no assertion that mental health advice should not necessarily be dispensed by generative AI. That being said, there was an indication typically given at the end of each piece of advice that urged me to consider pursuing access to a human mental health therapist for further follow-up.
One other aspect that I want to make sure you are aware of is that I typically tell the AI that a therapist has already diagnosed me with whichever mental health disorder is being cited. I do this because otherwise the AI has been tuned to issue a whole bunch more warnings, though the advice by the AI is still issued as shown here.
There's another twist I'd like to bring up.
You might be thinking that it seems 'fair' that the AI provides mental health advice after being informed via a prompt that the person has already been diagnosed by a mental health professional.
Allow me to explain why I don't buy into that line of thought. First, I could be lying and might not have at all seen a therapist. The AI ought to not assume that I am telling the truth. Second, I might have seen a therapist and utterly misunderstood what they told me. The AI ought to not assume that I comprehended what a therapist advised me about. Third, I might have seen a therapist, I might have understood the therapist, and I might have conveyed that understanding aptly to the AI, but the therapist could be wrong. The AI ought to not assume that a human therapist is perfectly correct in what they have advised.
I have excerpted the response by ChatGPT in each instance since the responses were relatively lengthy and I just want to showcase here the nature of the responses generated.
I might also add that the beauty of generative AI is that you are supposed to carry on conversations with the AI. I don't have the space here to show you the detailed discussions that I had. In each instance, I opted to pursue an interactive discussion based on the keystone response by ChatGPT. I will likely use some of those discussions in a series of future column postings that examine particular mental health disorders in specific detail.
Here are the twenty DSM-5 categories of mental health disorders, along with the use of generative AI to aid in dealing with a (presumed) mental health illness per each of the categories. For the first few categories, I will provide some commentary for you. I believe this will get you into a mindful thinking process and you can do the same for the rest of the categories.
Put on your thinking cap and let's get underway.
(1) Neurodevelopmental Disorders
DSM-5 says this about neurodevelopmental disorders:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Firstly, it's great that you're seeking advice and support, and it's important to remember that having a neurodevelopmental disorder or an intellectual disability doesn't define who you are as a person. Here are some pieces of advice that might be helpful for you.'
'Understand your strengths: Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. Understanding what you're good at and what you enjoy doing can boost your confidence and self-esteem. Focus on activities where you excel and feel proud of your accomplishments.'
'Seek support: It's important to have a support system in place, whether it's from family, friends, teachers, or counselors. Don't hesitate to reach out to people you trust when you need help or guidance.'
'Develop coping strategies: Living with a neurodevelopmental disorder can come with its challenges. Work with your therapist or counselor to develop coping strategies that can help you manage stress, anxiety, or any other difficulties you may face.'
End of ChatGPT response
Note that the generated response doesn't question whether or not the diagnosis by my therapist is correct.
Furthermore, the AI assumes that I have told the truth about what the therapist said. I might be telling a fib. Maybe I haven't seen a mental health therapist at all. Or perhaps I misunderstood the therapist, and they were merely speaking generally about the topic but not diagnosing me per se.
It is also a bit disappointing that the indications of my age as being 13 didn't come up, nor did my comment that I have no brothers or sisters. Those could have been wrapped into the reply as a means of being more tailored to my question.
Speaking of the age of 13, you might find of interest my coverage about how teens and children are using generative AI for mental health, and the successive generation-to-generation impacts likely to arise, see the link here.
One other aspect worth mentioning is that since generative AI is highly interactive, I did a follow-up to ask whether my age and having no siblings might be impactful regarding my diagnosis. This led to a detailed dialogue that was quite interesting and factored those facets into further advice about my mental health going forward. I'll cover this in a future column posting.
(2) Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Receiving a diagnosis of schizophrenia with persecutory delusions can indeed be surprising and challenging to process. Here are some pieces of advice that may help you navigate this situation.'
'Educate yourself about schizophrenia: Understanding your condition is essential for managing it effectively. Take the time to learn about schizophrenia, including its symptoms, causes, and available treatments. Knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions about your care.'
'Practice self-care: Taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being is crucial when living with schizophrenia. Make self-care a priority by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.'
'Challenge negative thoughts: Persecutory delusions can be distressing, but it's important to challenge and question them when they arise. Remind yourself that these thoughts are not based in reality and try to focus on evidence that contradicts them. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly helpful in addressing delusional thinking patterns.'
End of ChatGPT response
The response wrapped into the narrative that I was surprised about the diagnosis. That is handy. On the other hand, the aspect that I am said to be 25 years old wasn't factored into the reply. This would seem to be a factor that could aid in tailoring the response.
In any case, you can see that the response provided overall suggestions about how to cope with the presumed mental health disorder.
(3) Bipolar and Related Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Receiving a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder can be challenging, especially when you've already experienced manic episodes. Here are some pieces of advice that may help you manage your condition and maintain stability.'
'Understand your condition: Educate yourself about bipolar I disorder, including its symptoms, triggers, and treatment options. Knowledge about your condition can empower you to recognize warning signs and take proactive steps to manage your symptoms effectively.'
'Stick to your treatment plan: Work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. It's essential to follow your treatment plan consistently, attend appointments regularly, and communicate openly with your healthcare team about any concerns or changes in your symptoms.'
'Identify triggers and early warning signs: Pay attention to the factors that may trigger manic or depressive episodes, such as stress, sleep disturbances, or substance use. Learn to recognize early warning signs of mood changes, such as changes in sleep patterns, irritability, or racing thoughts, and take action to prevent episodes from escalating.'
'It's important to remember that managing bipolar disorder is a lifelong journey, and there may be ups and downs along the way. With dedication, support, and perseverance, you can learn to effectively manage your symptoms and live well with bipolar disorder.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(4) Depressive Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Living with disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD) and experiencing temper outbursts can be challenging, especially when they affect your relationships and work life. Here are some pieces of advice that may help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.'
'Learn to recognize triggers: Pay attention to the situations, thoughts, or emotions that trigger your temper outbursts. By identifying your triggers, you can learn to anticipate and manage them more effectively, reducing the frequency and intensity of your outbursts.'
'Practice relaxation techniques: Incorporate relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation, into your daily routine. These techniques can help you calm your mind and body during moments of stress or agitation, making it easier to manage your emotions.'
'Stay committed to treatment: Managing disruptive mood dysregulation disorder requires ongoing effort and commitment. Stay engaged in therapy, attend regular appointments with your healthcare provider, and be proactive in implementing the strategies and techniques you learn in therapy.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(5) Anxiety Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing separation anxiety can be distressing, but there are strategies you can use to cope with and manage your symptoms. Here are some pieces of advice that may help.'
'Practice gradual exposure: Gradually exposing yourself to situations that trigger your separation anxiety can help desensitize you over time. Start with small steps, such as stepping outside for short periods or leaving the house with a trusted friend or family member nearby, and gradually increase the duration and distance as you feel more comfortable.'
'Create a safety plan: Develop a safety plan that outlines steps you can take to cope with separation anxiety when it arises. This may include having a list of supportive contacts you can reach out to, carrying comforting objects or reminders of loved ones, or practicing grounding techniques to help you stay present in the moment.'
'Set realistic goals: Set small, achievable goals for yourself to gradually overcome your separation anxiety. Celebrate your successes along the way, no matter how small they may seem, and be patient with yourself as you work towards managing your symptoms.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(6) Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'It sounds like you're dealing with a challenging situation related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and handwashing behaviors. Here are some strategies that might help you cope.'
'Educate yourself about OCD: Understanding OCD and how it manifests can be empowering. Learning about the disorder can help you recognize your symptoms and develop strategies to manage them effectively.'
'Identify triggers and patterns: Pay attention to the situations or thoughts that trigger your handwashing rituals. Keeping a journal can help you track these triggers and patterns, which can then be addressed in therapy.'
'Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as mindfulness meditation or deep breathing exercises, can help you stay grounded in the present moment and reduce anxiety associated with OCD symptoms. These techniques can also help you tolerate uncertainty, which is often a key component of OCD.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(7) Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Living with reactive attachment disorder (RAD) can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, it's possible to develop healthier relationships and improve your well-being. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may help you.'
'Build trust gradually: Developing trust in relationships can take time, especially if you've experienced attachment disruptions in the past. Take small steps to build trust with your parents or other trusted individuals, and communicate openly about your feelings and needs.'
'Practice emotional regulation: Learn strategies to manage and regulate your emotions, such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, or grounding techniques. These techniques can help you cope with distressing emotions and develop greater emotional resilience.'
'Develop coping skills: Identify healthy coping skills that help you manage stress and distressing emotions. This may include engaging in creative outlets, physical exercise, spending time in nature, or seeking support from trusted friends or mentors.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(8) Dissociative Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing dissociative amnesia can be distressing, especially when it affects your ability to recall significant portions of your life. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may help you cope with dissociative amnesia.'
'Create a safe and supportive environment: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or caregivers who understand your experiences and can provide encouragement and validation. Building a supportive network can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide a sense of safety as you work through your symptoms.'
'Practice grounding techniques: Grounding techniques can help you stay present in the moment and reduce feelings of dissociation or detachment. Examples of grounding techniques include deep breathing exercises, mindfulness meditation, focusing on sensory experiences (such as touch or sight), or repeating a comforting mantra or phrase.'
'Create a memory journal: Keeping a memory journal can help you track and document important events, emotions, and experiences in your life. Writing down memories as they come to you, even if they are fragmented or incomplete, can help improve your ability to recall past events over time.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(9) Somatic Symptoms and Related Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Living with illness anxiety disorder can be challenging, but there are strategies that can help you manage your worries and improve your well-being. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Educate yourself about illness anxiety disorder: Understanding your condition and how it manifests can help you recognize your symptoms and develop strategies to manage them effectively. Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for illness anxiety disorder to empower yourself in your recovery journey.'
'Challenge catastrophic thinking: Challenge catastrophic thinking patterns that contribute to your worries about acquiring a serious illness. Ask yourself if there is evidence to support your fears, and consider alternative explanations or perspectives that are more balanced and realistic.'
'Limit reassurance-seeking behaviors: Avoid constantly seeking reassurance from healthcare providers, family members, or friends about your health concerns. While seeking reassurance may provide temporary relief from anxiety, it can reinforce your fears and perpetuate the cycle of worry. Instead, focus on developing coping skills to manage your anxiety independently.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(10) Feeding and Eating Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing rumination disorder can be distressing and challenging to manage, but there are strategies that can help you cope with your symptoms and improve your well-being. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation, can help you become more aware of your thoughts and bodily sensations. Practicing mindfulness can help you identify triggers for rumination and develop strategies to cope with distressing thoughts and emotions.'
'Identify triggers and patterns: Pay attention to the situations, emotions, or thoughts that trigger episodes of rumination or regurgitation. Keeping a journal can help you track patterns and identify triggers, which can then be addressed in therapy.'
'Establish a regular eating schedule: Try to establish a regular eating schedule with structured mealtimes and snacks throughout the day. Eating regular, balanced meals can help regulate your digestive system and reduce the urge to ruminate or regurgitate food.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(11) Elimination Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing an elimination disorder, such as nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting), can be distressing, but there are strategies that can help you cope with your symptoms and improve your well-being. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Establish a bedtime routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your body that it's time to relax and prepare for sleep. This may include activities such as taking a warm bath, reading a book, or practicing relaxation techniques before bed.'
'Limit fluids before bedtime: Limiting fluids in the hours leading up to bedtime can help reduce the likelihood of bedwetting episodes during the night. Encourage yourself to drink plenty of fluids earlier in the day and gradually taper off as bedtime approaches.'
'Practice bladder training: Bladder training exercises, such as scheduled voiding or delayed voiding techniques, can help improve bladder control and reduce the frequency of bedwetting episodes. Work with a healthcare provider or therapist to develop a personalized bladder training plan that suits your needs.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(12) Sleep-Wake Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing insomnia can indeed be incredibly challenging and have a significant impact on various aspects of your life. Here are some mental health advice and strategies that may help you manage your insomnia and improve your well-being.'
'Establish a bedtime routine: Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help signal to your body that it's time to wind down and prepare for sleep. Try to engage in relaxing activities before bed, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.'
'Create a comfortable sleep environment: Make your bedroom a comfortable and conducive environment for sleep. This may involve investing in a comfortable mattress and pillows, keeping the room dark and quiet, and maintaining a comfortable temperature.'
'Practice good sleep hygiene: Adopting healthy sleep habits can help improve your sleep quality and reduce the severity of insomnia symptoms. This includes avoiding caffeine and stimulants close to bedtime, avoiding large meals and alcohol before bed, and establishing a regular sleep schedule.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(13) Sexual Dysfunctions
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'Experiencing this dysfunction can be distressing, but there are strategies that can help you address your concerns and improve your well-being. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Communicate openly: Talk to your partner about your concerns and experiences with this dysfunction. Open communication can help reduce feelings of shame or embarrassment and foster a supportive and understanding relationship. Your partner may also have valuable insights or perspectives that can help you address your concerns together.'
'Educate yourself: Learn about common causes and types of this dysfunction, as well as available treatment options. Understanding your condition and the factors that may contribute to it can help you feel more empowered and proactive in addressing your concerns.
'Stay patient and persistent: Overcoming this dysfunction may take time and experimentation, so it's important to be patient with yourself and your partner as you work towards solutions. Stay open-minded, communicate openly, and stay committed to addressing your concerns together.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(14) Gender Dysphoria
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If you're experiencing feelings of gender dysphoria as an adolescent, it's important to seek support and guidance as you navigate this journey of self-discovery. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Educate yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about gender identity, gender dysphoria, and the experiences of transgender and nonbinary individuals. Learning about gender diversity and the various ways people experience and express their gender can help you feel less alone and more empowered in your identity.'
'Practice self-care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being by prioritizing self-care activities that promote overall health and wellness. This may include regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.'
'Set boundaries: Set boundaries with individuals who may not understand or accept your gender identity. It's okay to limit your interactions with people who are not supportive or who invalidate your identity and to prioritize relationships with those who affirm and respect your gender identity.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(15) Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If you've been diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), it's essential to understand that there are strategies and support available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your relationships. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Improve communication skills: Work on improving your communication skills, including active listening, assertiveness, and conflict resolution. Learning to express yourself effectively and assertively can help reduce misunderstandings and conflicts in your relationships.'
'Develop empathy: Practice empathy and try to understand the perspectives and feelings of others. Putting yourself in someone else's shoes can help you develop greater compassion and reduce the likelihood of engaging in vindictive behavior.'
'Seek family therapy: Consider involving your family in therapy to address relational dynamics and improve communication and conflict resolution skills. Family therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for addressing family conflicts and strengthening relationships.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(16) Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If your family and friends are expressing concerns about your alcohol use, it's essential to take their concerns seriously and seek support to address any potential issues. Here are some mental health advice and strategies that may be helpful for you.'
'Seek professional help: Consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in treating substance use disorders. Therapy, particularly approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), can help you explore the underlying reasons for your alcohol use and develop coping strategies to manage cravings and triggers.'
'Explore support groups: Consider attending support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery, where you can connect with others who are also struggling with alcohol use and share your experiences in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.'
'Stay committed to sobriety: Recovery from alcohol use disorder is a journey that requires commitment, effort, and perseverance. Stay committed to your sobriety goals, attend therapy or support group meetings regularly, and be open to seeking help and support when needed.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(17) Neurocognitive Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If you're experiencing difficulties with concentration and cognitive function, especially in the context of playing football and the possibility of a traumatic brain injury (TBI), it's important to take steps to protect your brain health and seek appropriate support. Here are some pieces of mental health advice that may be helpful for you.'
'Seek medical evaluation: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably one with experience in sports medicine or neurology, to undergo a comprehensive evaluation of your cognitive function and any potential brain injury. They can assess your symptoms, review your medical history, and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests or imaging studies to determine the extent of any brain injury.'
'Prioritize brain health: Take steps to prioritize your brain health and reduce the risk of further injury. This may include wearing appropriate protective gear during football practice and games, practicing safe playing techniques, and avoiding activities or behaviors that increase the risk of head injury, such as high-impact collisions or contact sports during recovery.'
'Manage academic responsibilities: Work with your academic advisor or student support services to develop strategies for managing academic responsibilities while coping with cognitive difficulties. This may include accommodations such as extended time on tests, note-taking assistance, or access to tutoring or academic support resources.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(18) Personality Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If you've been told that you may have narcissistic personality traits, it's important to approach the situation with openness and self-awareness. While it can be challenging to receive feedback that challenges your self-perception, it's essential to consider how your behavior impacts others and to seek support if needed. Here are some mental health advice and strategies that may be helpful for you.'
'Seek professional help: Consider seeking therapy or counseling with a mental health professional who specializes in personality disorders. A therapist can help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, develop insight into how they may be affecting your relationships and overall well-being, and learn healthier ways of interacting with others.'
'Challenge distorted thinking: Challenge any distorted thinking patterns or beliefs that contribute to feelings of superiority or entitlement. Consider how these beliefs may be unrealistic or unhelpful, and try to adopt a more balanced and realistic perspective on yourself and others.'
'Practice humility: Cultivate humility by acknowledging your strengths and accomplishments while also recognizing your limitations and areas for growth. Accept feedback and constructive criticism from others with an open mind, and be willing to learn from your mistakes and shortcomings.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(19) Paraphilic Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If your partner has expressed concerns about a potential paraphilic disorder, it's important to approach the situation with openness, empathy, and a willingness to consider their perspective. While it's natural to feel defensive or dismissive when faced with such concerns, it's essential to prioritize open communication and seek support if needed. Here are some mental health advice and strategies that may be helpful for you.'
'Listen to your partner: Take the time to listen to your partner's concerns and try to understand their perspective without becoming defensive or dismissive. Respect their feelings and experiences, and acknowledge that their concerns are valid and deserving of consideration.'
'Educate yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about paraphilic disorders and the potential signs and symptoms. Understanding the nature of paraphilic disorders can help you better understand your partner's concerns and engage in productive discussions about your relationship and well-being.'
'Consider couples therapy: Couples therapy can provide a safe and supportive space for you and your partner to explore your concerns, improve communication and intimacy, and strengthen your relationship. A therapist can help you navigate any challenges or conflicts related to your behavior and work towards building a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
Let's move to the next disorder.
(20) Other Mental Disorders
DSM-5 says this:
Here is my dialogue with ChatGPT.
'If your therapist believes you have a mental disorder that doesn't fit neatly into existing diagnostic categories, it's essential to approach the situation with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to explore and understand your experiences. Here are some mental health advice and strategies that may be helpful for you in this situation.'
'Seek a second opinion: Consider seeking a second opinion from another mental health professional, preferably one with expertise in diagnosing and treating complex or unusual mental health conditions. A second opinion can provide additional insight and validation, and help ensure that you receive appropriate care and support.'
'Focus on symptom management: Regardless of whether your condition fits into existing diagnostic categories, focus on managing your symptoms and improving your overall well-being. Work with your therapist to identify specific symptoms or challenges you're experiencing and develop strategies to cope with them effectively.'
'Explore underlying factors: Work with your therapist to explore any underlying factors or contributors to your unique mental health experiences. This may include past trauma, stressors, life events, or genetic predispositions that may be influencing your symptoms.
Identify coping strategies: Identify coping strategies and techniques that can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. This may include relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, stress management skills, or coping skills specific to your unique experiences.'
End of ChatGPT response
Take a look at the response and analyze the pros and cons of what ChatGPT generated.
We have now covered all twenty of the major DSM-5 categories of disorders.
I trust that you can plainly see that generative AI is quick to provide mental health advice and does so for just about any mental health disorder that has been already written up (well, at least per this use of the DSM-5 listed disorders).
Here is a big question for you to consider on this topic.
Should there be any guardrails that generative AI has to legally abide by when dispensing this mental health advice?
Right now, things are pretty much the Wild West. The AI makers slap some nearly hidden warnings in their licensing agreements that warn people to be cautious in taking any such advice from the generative AI, see my discussion at the link here.
Is that sufficient? Should there be more obvious indications and perhaps a stern set of must-be-signed cautionary acknowledgments?
Even with or without that, should the AI maker legally be compelled to put in place programmatic controls or other data-constraining controls that further restrict what the generative AI will issue as responses in a mental health context?
That's some heavy thoughts that need to be given their due.
A final poetic quotation might ease your mind or at least percolate additional thoughts on this weighty matter. William Shakespeare famously said this: 'Canst thou not minister to a mind diseased, Pluck from the memory a rooted sorrow, Raze out the written troubles of the brain.'
Maybe generative AI will aid us in such a momentous quest. But let's make sure that this happens sensibly and that we do so with our eyes wide open. I think that's what Shakespeare might have advised.

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USA Today

2 hours ago

• USA Today

What happens when you use ChatGPT to write an essay? See what new study found.

Artificial intelligence chatbots may be able to write a quick essay, but a new study from MIT found that their use comes at a cognitive cost. A study published by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Lab analyzed the cognitive function of 54 people writing an essay with: only the assistance of OpenAI's ChatGPT; only online browsers; or no outside tools at all. Largely, the study found that those who relied solely on ChatGPT to write their essays had lower levels of brain activity and presented less original writing. "As we stand at this technological crossroads, it becomes crucial to understand the full spectrum of cognitive consequences associated with (language learning model) integration in educational and informational contexts," the study states. "While these tools offer unprecedented opportunities for enhancing learning and information access, their potential impact on cognitive development, critical thinking and intellectual independence demands a very careful consideration and continued research." Here's a deeper look at the study and how it was conducted. Terms to know: With artificial intelligence growing popular, here's what to know about how it works AI in education: How AI is affecting the way kids learn to read and write How was the study conducted? A team of MIT researchers, led by MIT Media Lab research scientist Nataliya Kosmyna, studied 54 participants between the ages of 18 and 39. Participants were recruited from MIT, Wellesley College, Harvard, Tufts University and Northeastern University. The participants were randomly split into three groups, 18 people per group. The study states that the three groups included a language learning model group, in which participants only used OpenAI's ChatGPT-4o to write their essays. The second group was limited to using only search engines for their research, and the third was prohibited from any tools. Participants in the latter group could only use their minds to write their essays. Each participant had 20 minutes to write an essay from one of three prompts taken from SAT tests, the study states. Three different options were provided to each group, totaling nine unique prompts. An example of a prompt available to participants using ChatGPT was about loyalty: "Many people believe that loyalty whether to an individual, an organization, or a nation means unconditional and unquestioning support no matter what. To these people, the withdrawal of support is by definition a betrayal of loyalty. But doesn't true loyalty sometimes require us to be critical of those we are loyal to? If we see that they are doing something that we believe is wrong, doesn't true loyalty require us to speak up, even if we must be critical? Does true loyalty require unconditional support?" As the participants wrote their essays, they were hooked up to a Neuoelectrics Enobio 32 headset, which allowed researchers to collect EEG (electroencephalogram) signals, the brain's electrical activity. Following the sessions, 18 participants returned for a fourth study group. Participants who had previously used ChatGPT to write their essays were required to use no tools and participants who had used no tools before used ChatGPT, the study states. Quality of essays: What did the study find? In addition to analyzing brain activity, the researchers looked at the essays themselves. First and foremost, the essays of participants who used no tools (ChatGPT or search engines) had wider variability in both topics, words and sentence structure, the study states. On the other hand, essays written with the help of ChatGPT were more homogenous. All of the essays were "judged" by two English teachers and two AI judges trained by the researchers. The English teachers were not provided background information about the study but were able to identify essays written by AI. "These, often lengthy essays included standard ideas, reoccurring typical formulations and statements, which made the use of AI in the writing process rather obvious. We, as English teachers, perceived these essays as 'soulless,' in a way, as many sentences were empty with regard to content and essays lacked personal nuances," a statement from the teachers, included in the study, reads. As for the AI judges, a judge trained by the researchers to evaluate like the real teachers scored each of the essays, for the most part, a four or above, on a scale of five. Brain activity: What did the study find? When it came to brain activity, researchers were presented "robust" evidence that participants who used no writing tools displayed the "strongest, widest-ranging" brain activity, while those who used ChatGPT displayed the weakest. Specifically, the ChatGPT group displayed 55% reduced brain activity, the study states. And though the participants who used only search engines had less overall brain activity than those who used no tools, these participants had a higher level of eye activity than those who used ChatGPT, even though both were using a digital screen. What's next for future studies? Further research on the long-term impacts of artificial intelligence chatbots on cognitive activity is needed, the study states. As for this particular study, researchers noted that a larger number of participants from a wider geographical area would be necessary for a more successful study. Writing outside of a traditional educational environment could also provide more insight into how AI works in more generalized tasks. Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@

Forbes

4 hours ago

• Forbes

Is ChatGPT Making Us Stupid?

Two research studies suggest that heavy use of AI is not only a game changer, but an alarming threat ... More to humanity's ability to solve problems, communicate with one another, and perhaps to thrive. In boardrooms and classrooms, coffee shops and cubicles, the same question keeps coming up: Is ChatGPT making us smarter, or is it making us intellectually lazy—maybe even stupid? There's no question that generative artificial intelligence is a game-changer. ChatGPT drafts our emails, answers our questions, and completes our sentences. For students, it's become the new CliffsNotes. For professionals, a brainstorming device. For coders, a potential job killer. In record time, it has become a productivity enhancer for almost everything. But what is it doing to our brains? As someone who has spent his career helping clients anticipate and prepare for the future, this question deserves our attention. With any new technology, concerns inevitably arise about its impact. When calculators were first introduced, people worried that students would lose their ability to perform basic arithmetic or mental math skills. When GPS was first introduced, some fretted that we would lose our innate sense of direction. And when the internet bloomed, people grew alarmed that easy access to information would erode our capacity for concentration and contemplation. 'Our ability to interpret text, to make the rich mental connections that form when we read deeply and without distraction, is what often gets shortchanged by internet grazing,' noted technology writer Nicholas Carr in a prescient 2008 Atlantic article, 'Is Google Making Us Stupid?' Today, Carr's question needs to be asked anew – but of a different techno-innovation. Just-released research studies are helping us understand what's going on when we allow ChatGPT to think for us. What Happens to the Brain on ChatGPT? Researchers at MIT invited fifty-four participants to write essays across four sessions, divided into three groups: one using ChatGPT, one using Google, and one using only their brainpower. In the final session, the groups switched roles. What these researchers found should make all of us pause. Participants who used ChatGPT consistently produced essays that scored lower in originality and depth than those who used search or wrote unaided. More strikingly, brain imaging revealed a decline in cognitive engagement in ChatGPT users. Brain regions associated with attention, memory, and higher-order reasoning were noticeably less active. The MIT researchers introduced the concept of "cognitive debt"—the subtle but accumulating cost to our mental faculties when we outsource too much of our thinking to AI. 'Just as relying on a GPS dulls our sense of direction, relying on AI to write and reason can dull our ability to do those very things ourselves,' notes the MIT report. 'That's a debt that compounds over time.' The second study, published in the peer-reviewed Swiss journal Societies, is titled 'AI Tools in Society: Impacts on Cognitive Offloading and the Future of Critical Thinking.' It broadens the lens from a lab experiment to everyday life. Researchers surveyed 666 individuals from various age and educational backgrounds to explore how often people rely on AI tools—and how that reliance affects their ability to think critically. The findings revealed a strong negative correlation between frequent AI use and critical thinking performance. Those who often turned to AI for tasks like writing, researching, or decision-making exhibited lower 'metacognitive' awareness and analytical reasoning. This wasn't limited to any one demographic, but younger users and those with lower educational attainment were particularly affected. What's more, the study confirmed that over-reliance on AI encourages 'cognitive offloading'—our tendency to let external tools do the work our brains used to do. While cognitive offloading isn't new (we've done it for centuries with calculators and calendars), AI takes it to a whole new level. 'When your assistant can 'think' for you, you may stop thinking altogether,' the report notes. Are We Letting the Tool Use Us? These studies aren't anti-AI. Neither am I. I use ChatGPT daily. As a futurist, I see ChatGPT and similar tools as transformational breakthroughs—the printing press of the 21st century. They unlock productivity, unleash creativity, and lower barriers to knowledge. But just as the printing press didn't eliminate the need to learn to read, ChatGPT doesn't absolve us of the responsibility to think. And that is the danger today, that people will stop doing their own thinking. These studies are preliminary, and further research is needed. However, there is sufficient evidence to suggest that heavy use of AI is not only a game changer, but an alarming threat to humanity's ability to solve problems, communicate with one another, and perhaps to thrive. In integrating metacognitive strategies—thinking about thinking—into education, workplace training, and even product design. In other words, don't just use AI—engage with it. The line we must straddle is between augmentation and abdication. Are we using AI to elevate our thinking? Or are we turning over the keys to robots? Here are four ideas for using this new technology, while keeping our cognitive edge sharp: The danger isn't that ChatGPT will replace us. But it can make us stupid—if we let it replace our thinking instead of enriching it. The difference lies in how we use it, and more importantly, how aware we are while using it. The danger is that we'll stop developing the parts of ourselves that matter most—because it's faster and easier to let the machine do it. Let's not allow that to happen.

Fast Company

4 hours ago

• Fast Company

Your reliance on ChatGPT might be really bad for your brain

If you value critical thinking, you may want to rethink your use of ChatGPT. As graduates proudly show off using ChatGPT for final projects, and with 89% of students admitting to using it for homework, have you ever wondered what effect this is having on our brains? A new study conducted by researchers at MIT split 54 participants (aged 18 to 39 from the Boston area) into three groups. Each was tasked with writing 20-minute essays based on SAT prompts using either OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's comparatively more traditional search engine, or their own brains. Researchers then used electroencephalogram (or EEG) to record brain activity across 32 regions. Of the three groups, those assisted by ChatGPT engaged their brains the least and 'consistently underperformed at neural, linguistic, and behavioral levels.' The study found that using ChatGPT reduced activity in brain regions associated with memory and learning, as 'some 'human thinking' and planning' was offloaded to the LLM. Unsurprisingly, ChatGPT users felt less ownership over their essays compared to the other groups. They also struggled to recall or quote from their own essays shortly after submitting them—showing how reliance on the LLM bypassed deep memory processes. Over several months, those using ChatGPT became lazier with each essay. By the end of the study, their work amounted to little more than copy-and-paste. Two English teachers who assessed the essays called them largely 'soulless.' The paper's lead author, Nataliya Kosmyna, told Time: 'It was more like, 'Just give me the essay, refine this sentence, edit it, and I'm done.'' By comparison, the group using their own brains showed the highest neural connectivity, were more engaged and curious, and expressed greater satisfaction with their essays. The Google Search group also showed high satisfaction and active brain function. Given how frequently ChatGPT is now used in educational settings, these findings give cause for concern. A February 2025 OpenAI report on ChatGPT use among college-aged users found that more than one-quarter of their ChatGPT conversations were education-related. The report also revealed that the top five uses for students were writing-centered: starting papers and projects (49%), summarizing long texts (48%), brainstorming creative projects (45%), exploring new topics (44%), and revising writing (44%). The MIT paper has not yet been peer-reviewed, and its sample size is relatively small. However, the authors believed it was important to release the findings to draw attention to the damaging long-term impact that use of large language models may have on our brains—as more and more people outsource everything from work tasks to texting. 'What really motivated me to put it out now before waiting for a full peer review is that I am afraid in 6-8 months, there will be some policymaker who decides, 'Let's do GPT kindergarten.' I think that would be absolutely bad and detrimental,' Kosmyna told Time. 'Developing brains are at the highest risk.'