In Focus by The Hindu In Focus-Parley | Is using AI-based tools for mental health useful or harmful?
Nov 6, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Neeraj Kumar, Founder of Peak Mind, and psychiatrist Jamila Koshy explore the utility and risks of AI in mental health. They discuss how students are using AI chatbots for companionship but highlight concerns about relying on them as substitutes for real therapy. Neeraj explains how their tool, Piku, aims to supplement human counselors, offering proactive support while ensuring safety protocols. Koshy emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma and fostering connections, arguing for a balanced approach between AI and human intervention.
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AI As Default Emotional Outlet
- AI chatbots have become de facto companions for many young people, especially students.
- OpenAI reports over a million weekly discussions of self-harm with ChatGPT, revealing widespread use for emotional venting.
Students Using Bots As Therapists
- Dr. Jamila Koshy found several young engineering students using AI both for information and as a therapist substitute.
- She reports the bots often present deceptive, person-like responses that make users feel they had real therapy.
Augmented Intelligence Not Replacement
- Mental health work centers on emotions and human connection that bots cannot replace.
- Peak Mind frames AI as 'augmented intelligence' to support, not substitute, human care.