Daily AI use is associated with depressive symptoms (www.hks.harvard.edu)

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open reveals a concerning correlation between daily use of generative AI and increased depressive symptoms among U.S. adults. Conducted by a team led by Dr. Roy Perlis from Harvard Medical School, the research analyzed responses from over 20,000 individuals and found that frequent AI use raises the likelihood of experiencing depression by 30%, with even higher rates (50% more) for those aged 45 to 65. Interestingly, symptoms were most pronounced among younger adults using AI for personal purposes, suggesting a complex relationship between technology use and mental health. This study is significant for the AI/ML community as it underscores the potential mental health implications associated with the integration of AI into daily life. While generative AI has been touted for its benefits, such as assisting with mental health discussions, this research highlights the need for a deeper understanding of its adverse effects. The authors advocate for further investigation into the causal relationships between AI usage patterns and mood disturbances, as well as exploring strategies for moderation, similar to those implemented for social media engagement.