How can technology support young people’s mental health and well-being? Not a replacement for traditional therapy, but a complement to existing mental health services

Purpose The purpose of this essay is to explore the role of AI-driven chatbots in supporting young people’s mental health and well-being. Design/methodology/approach This essay adopts a literature review approach, synthesising findings from studies on cyberpsychology from the last decade. The analysis incorporates theoretical frameworks like the online disinhibition effect to contextualise AI’s potential in promoting self-disclosure and emotional expression. Ethical challenges are also examined through a review of expert opinions. Findings The analysis reveals that AI-driven chatbots offer significant benefits, such as reducing barriers to mental health support, promoting self-disclosure among young people and enabling anonymous support. However, their limitations, like their inability to provide true empathy, remain a significant challenge. It was concluded that while chatbots cannot replace human therapists, they should certainly be used to complement existing services. Originality/value This paper provides a unique contribution by applying theoretical frameworks, such as the online disinhibition effect, to patterns in young people’s behaviour. It shines light upon the critical role of personalisation in mental health services, particularly through reflecting users’ emotional states and enhancing self-disclosure – capabilities that AI can effectively provide. Combined with anonymity, these factors make AI-driven tools a powerful complement to mental health support.