AI Companions: A Growing Trend in Mental Health, but at What Cost?

In Buenos Aires, and likely many other major cities, a new trend is emerging: people are turning to AI companions for emotional support. This is not science fiction; it's happening now, as evidenced by the increasing use of platforms such as ChatGPT. One psychologist interviewed by Infobae noted, "The average time people spend with AI therapeutic tools like ChatGPT is 91 minutes a day!" This highlights the significant role AI is playing in people's lives. However, this convenience raises concerns about privacy. As the psychologist points out, users are often sharing very personal details about their lives, their work, and their relationships. While AI companions offer a readily available source of comfort, the ethical implications of data privacy need careful consideration. The increasing popularity of these services suggests further investigation into their impact on mental health and the responsible use of personal data is necessary.