AI and depression: Which age groups are most affected?

A study of nearly 21,000 Americans found that frequent personal AI use was linked to higher rates of depression, but the relationship isn't straightforward.

 

Why do some daily AI users have higher rates of depression? People who use AI every day are 30% more likely to experience moderate depression than those who never use it, according to a new study of nearly 21,000 Americans. But wait, before you delete ChatGPT, the researchers found that there was only an association with personal use. Using AI for work or school was not associated with depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the relationship varied by age. Adults between the ages of 25 and 64 showed the strongest connection, while younger and older users did not. What remains to be worked out is which comes first, depression or AI use? "We don't know if it is cause, effect, or neither," says lead author Roy H. Perlis, MD, professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. "It is possible that people with a greater extent of depressive symptoms use AI more often [...] I certainly worry about people using AI as a substitute for social interaction." To learn what researchers think might explain these patterns and whether AI could still benefit mental health when used differently, jump to "Frequent AI use linked to higher depression rates, study warns." Also making headlines this week: 💉 The shingles vaccine may do more than prevent shingles 🩸 Blood sugar spikes after meals linked to 69% higher Alzheimer's risk 🌙 Night owls face a higher heart disease risk, even those who sleep longer We love to hear from you, so please email us if you have any feedback, comments, or questions about this weekend's Sunday Supplement. Stay informed and stay healthy! Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Medical News Today

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