Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health

A Clinical and Philosophical Perspective

Artificial intelligence (AI) has firmly established itself as an essential tool in various fields, including mental health care. While its integration raises ethical and philosophical debates, it also introduces unprecedented opportunities to support patients, particularly in situations where access to care is limited or human relationships are strained.

This article explores the contributions of AI in psychological care, highlighting its potential role as a facilitating third party in complex situations and drawing on philosophical, psychoanalytic, and sociological approaches.

AI as a Tool for Mental Health Support

Addressing Growing Needs

The demand for psychological care far exceeds the capacities of current health systems. According to a systematic review published in BMC Psychiatry, AI can play a pivotal role in the early identification of mental disorders, providing timely intervention and personalized treatment. Tools such as chatbots (e.g., Wysa or Woebot) offer immediate support to patients dealing with anxiety or depression, complementing traditional consultations.

A Motivational and Accessible Approach

For individuals who are isolated or reluctant to consult a professional, AI can serve as an initial point of contact. For instance, applications like Kanopee help users manage stress and sleep disorders through interactive exercises and motivational dialogues. These tools reduce barriers to access while guiding patients toward professional care when needed.

AI as a Facilitating Third Party in Human Relationships

Mediating Family Conflicts

In parental conflict situations where direct dialogue has become impossible, AI can act as a mediator. Platforms like TheMediator.AI leverage advanced language models to facilitate respectful communication between parties. By structuring exchanges and eliminating emotional biases, AI helps restore constructive dialogue while respecting each individual’s tone and perspective.

Support Between Therapy Sessions

From a psychoanalytic perspective, AI can also act as a symbolic third party between therapy sessions. For example, a chatbot designed to encourage introspection might help a patient maintain a connection with their therapeutic process by offering open-ended questions or reflection exercises. While this role does not replace the therapist, it enhances the patient’s experience by providing continuity.

Ethical and Philosophical Reflections

AI and the Care Relationship

Cynthia Fleury, in her work on ethics and care, emphasizes the importance of preserving the human dimension in technological interactions. According to Fleury, AI must be envisioned as a tool that supports human vulnerability, rather than substituting therapeutic relationships. This perspective resonates with Martha Nussbaum’s view, which advocates for technologies to enhance human capabilities, especially in sensitive areas such as mental health.

Issues of Confidentiality and Neutrality

The use of AI in psychological care raises significant ethical challenges:

• How can the confidentiality of sensitive patient data be ensured?
• How can algorithms avoid perpetuating discriminatory biases?
• How can AI remain a neutral and non-intrusive tool?

These challenges necessitate strict regulations and close collaboration between developers, clinicians, and ethicists.

Case Studies and Practical Applications

Support During Crises

A study published in BMC Psychology demonstrated that chatbots can significantly reduce anxiety levels in crisis contexts, such as conflict zones. Although their efficacy is lower than that of traditional therapies, they provide an accessible and scalable solution for vulnerable populations.

Mediation and Conflict Resolution

Tools like TheMediator.AI have shown effectiveness in resolving low-intensity conflicts, such as disagreements between colleagues or familial disputes. By simulating empathy and structuring exchanges, these systems help defuse tensions and find mutually acceptable solutions.

Conclusion: Toward a Humanistic Integration of AI

Artificial intelligence, when used ethically and thoughtfully, can enrich the field of psychological care. As a facilitating third party, it offers innovative solutions to support patients, assist therapists, and strengthen human relationships.

However, its integration must be guided by clear principles: safeguarding the dignity and freedom of individuals, ensuring data confidentiality, and promoting a human-centered approach.

By intersecting philosophical, psychoanalytic, and technological perspectives, AI has the potential to become a powerful tool for addressing current mental health challenges while upholding fundamental values of care and humanity.

References:

1. BMC Psychology. (2023). The application of artificial intelligence in the field of mental health. Retrieved from https://bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com.
2. Cynthia Fleury & Fenoglio, A. (2024). Éthique et design. Paris : Les Belles Lettres.
3. Fleury, C. (2019). Le soin est un humanisme. Paris : Gallimard.
4. Nussbaum, M. (2000). Women and Human Development: The Capabilities Approach. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
5. Nussbaum, M. (2010). Creating Capabilities: The Human Development Approach. Cambridge, MA: Belknap Press.
6. TheMediator.AI. (2023). AI Mediation: Using AI to Help Mediate Disputes. Retrieved from https://themediator.ai.
7. Wysa & Woebot. (2023). Applications for mental health support. Retrieved from https://wysa.io & https://woebothealth.com.