Rethinking AI’s Role in Thai Mental Health: Benefits, Risks, and Real-World Impacts
Artificial intelligence tools, including chatbots and virtual companions, are increasingly used in Thailand. This rise brings promise for expanding mental health support in hospitals and eldercare, while also raising concerns about potential risks. Thai readers now encounter AI-powered apps for study help, entertainment, and guidance, making balanced coverage essential.
Research and clinical experience suggest AI can enhance access to care, yet unusual psychiatric cases linked to AI interactions warrant careful monitoring. Reports of AI-related distress emphasize the need for vigilant evaluation, safety measures, and ongoing research. Experts caution that causation is not proven, but these episodes underscore the importance of safeguarding vulnerable users as technology grows more capable.
