tawandamusarurwa
Jane Lindiwe Mhlanga
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to integrate more deeply into our lives it is important that we consider not just its practical impacts, but also the psychological effects.
While AI promises vast benefits, its ubiquitous presence risks subtly influencing our mental states in ways we are only beginning to understand.
Let us explore some of the potential impacts AI may have on our well-being, and explore strategies for ensuring that human-AI relationships develop in a manner that supports good mental health.
From a young age, many of us have become accustomed to constant digital stimulation from smartphones, social media, and digital games.
AI is taking this to another level by creating highly personalised experiences that can be addictive by design.
As AI learns our individual preferences and patterns, it aims to keep us engaged by delivering an optimised stream of content, rewards and stimulation.
But this level of constant gratification-seeking risks eroding our ability to self-soothe or enjoy solitude, skills that are important for resilience.
It may undermine patience and concentration, if we come to expect instant answers from AI assistants.
Relying on AI to mediate many of our social and information needs could potentially weaken real-world social skills.
If we converse more with AI than people, will it stunt our ability to understand complex human emotions and nuances?
Will a lack of practice lead to social anxiety?
While AI chat-bots and virtual assistants provide companionship for some, for others it may enable avoidance of real relationships and meaningful social engagement – a risk factor for depression and loneliness.
These are serious concerns, especially for children and teens whose social-emotional development depends greatly on peer interactions.
The rise of AI also introduces new societal anxieties.
As AI automates more jobs, economic insecurity is understandably growing – a key driver of stress.
Concerns around lack of control, job disruption, privacy violations and how AI could potentially be misused also take a psychological toll on some.
While fears of a dystopian AI future are often overblown, the “existential risk” posed by advanced AI is a genuine source of dread for many.
Ensuring proper governance and oversight of AI to protect humanity’s interests will be vital to mitigate these fears.
However, it is not all negative. AI shows promise for augmenting human capabilities and enhancing well-being when applied carefully.
AI coaches and therapists could potentially help more people access mental healthcare.
AI assistants may alleviate stress for caregivers. AI monitoring could help detect issues like depression or substance abuse early. AI could analyse genetic and other personal data to tailor lifestyle recommendations personalised to our individual needs.
AI even shows potential to help optimise conditions in workplaces and cities to support mental health at a population level.
Moving forward, it will be important we thoughtfully address these issues to ensure AI becomes a net positive for society rather than undermining wellness.
Developers must prioritise transparency, explainability and ensuring systems respect human values like privacy, fairness and autonomy.
Regulators must ensure oversight to safeguard against potential harms.
Individuals must also learn healthy digital habits and balance technology use with real social interaction and time in nature.
With care and wisdom, we can guide the development of AI to become a tool that augments our potential rather than eroding important aspects of what makes us human.
Our mental health may depend on getting this relationship right.
*Jane Lindiwe Mhlanga is a primary school teacher. She is currently studying towards a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology at Great Zimbabwe University. She writes in her personal capacity. Feedback WhatsApp: +263718035216 or email [email protected]
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