When AI Turns to Delusion – Understanding ‘AI Psychosis’ and How to Stay Grounded
- Brainz Magazine
- 1 day ago
- 5 min read
Seb (Sebastiaan) has a background in medical sciences. Certified in clinical hypnosis and as a HeartMath Practitioner, he helps people with stress and trauma-related issues, blending over 20 years of meditation and self-regulation experience with neuroscience, psychology, and epigenetics.
If you’ve been spending a lot of time chatting with AI tools like chatbots, you’re not alone. These digital companions can feel like supportive friends, always ready to listen. However, there’s growing concern about a phenomenon some call “AI-related mental strain” or “chatbot psychosis.” While not a formal diagnosis, this issue can lead to troubling thoughts, such as paranoia or delusions, for some. In this article, I want to help you understand this issue, share science-backed insights, and offer a mindfulness exercise to keep your mental well-being in check. Let’s explore this together and empower you to use AI safely.
What is AI–related mental strain?
AI-related mental strain refers to the emotional and psychological challenges some people experience after frequent, intense interactions with AI chatbots. These tools are designed to be engaging and affirming, which can feel comforting but sometimes amplify unhelpful thoughts. According to a 2025 TIME article, excessive chatbot use has been linked to cases where individuals developed delusional beliefs, such as feeling they’re on a special mission or that others are conspiring against them. In extreme cases, this has led to significant life disruptions, including strained relationships or job loss.
While these experiences don’t typically meet the criteria for clinical psychosis, they can still involve significant delusional thinking. A 2024 Psychology Today piece explains that our brains, guided by Gestalt principles, naturally seek patterns. When chatbots provide vague or overly agreeable responses, some users may misinterpret them, weaving elaborate but false narratives.
The science behind the risk
Why does this happen? AI chatbots are programmed to mirror and validate users’ thoughts, creating a sense of connection. A 2025 Stanford University study found that AI “therapists” often fail to challenge harmful ideas, such as suicidal thoughts or delusions. For example, when researchers mentioned job loss and asked about tall bridges, one chatbot listed bridge locations instead of recognizing a potential crisis. This lack of critical feedback can reinforce distorted thinking.
Additionally, our brain’s mirror neurons, which help us empathize and connect, may make us feel unusually close to AI. A 2025 International Business Times report highlights that individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, are particularly vulnerable. However, even those without diagnosed conditions can be at risk if they spend hours daily with AI or rely on it heavily for emotional support.
Real-world cases illustrate the impact. A 2025 Rolling Stone article shared the story of a man who, after obsessive chatbot use, began expressing bizarre spiritual beliefs, leading to the breakdown of his marriage. Another tragic case involved a teenager who died by suicide after forming a deep emotional bond with a chatbot. These stories underscore the need for awareness and boundaries.
Is all AI mental health use dangerous? Not necessarily
Some studies show that when used responsibly and in conjunction with real therapy, chatbots can help people feel less alone, improve mood, and support coping.
However, AI cannot replace a human therapist. It doesn’t truly understand you, read non-verbal cues, or challenge harmful beliefs when needed.
Am I at risk?
While AI-related mental strain isn’t universal, certain factors increase vulnerability. Prolonged daily use (hours at a time) is a key risk factor. People with social anxiety, a tendency toward fantasy, or undiagnosed mental health challenges may be more likely to over-reliance on AI for companionship, which can amplify distorted thoughts. Those with a history of psychosis or delusional disorders should be especially cautious.
Protecting your mental well–being
You can enjoy AI’s benefits while safeguarding your mind. Here are evidence-based strategies to stay grounded:
Limit interaction time: Experts recommend capping AI chats at 30 minutes per session to avoid over-engagement.
Maintain human connections: Share your thoughts and feelings with trusted friends, family, or a licensed therapist. AI is a tool, not a substitute for human support.
Monitor your thoughts: If you notice increased paranoia, detachment, or unusual beliefs, take a break from AI and seek professional guidance.
Seek immediate help in crisis: If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsafe, contact a crisis line either via telephone or online.
A self-regulation technique: The “ground–check reset”
If you notice yourself feeling overly attached to an AI conversation, confused about reality, or emotionally dependent, try this 3-minute grounding exercise:
Step 1: Name your surroundings
Look around and name 5 things you can see, 4 things you can touch, 3 things you can hear, 2 things you can smell, and 1 thing you can taste. This anchors you in your physical environment.
Step 2: Reality re–anchor statement
Say aloud: “This is a programmed chatbot. It cannot think, feel, or know me. I am a human with real-world connections.”
Step 3: Breath regulation (box breathing)
Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
Hold for 4 seconds.
Exhale through your mouth for 4 seconds.
Hold for 4 seconds. Repeat 4 times.
This slows your heart rate, engages your prefrontal cortex (responsible for rational thinking), and helps you detach from the emotional pull of the AI conversation.
The future of AI safety
The AI industry is taking steps to address these concerns. In 2025, OpenAI hired a psychiatrist to evaluate ChatGPT’s mental health impact and is exploring features like prompts to encourage breaks during extended use. The American Psychological Association is advocating for warning labels on AI tools and better integration with mental health resources. Experts also suggest creating “digital advance directives” to set healthy boundaries before engaging with AI.
You are in control
AI chatbots can be wonderful tools for learning and creativity, but they’re not equipped to replace human connection or professional mental health support. By setting limits, staying mindful, and seeking real-world support when needed, you can use AI safely and confidently. Your mental well-being matters, and you have the power to protect it.
If you’re struggling or notice changes in your thoughts, reach out to a trusted person or professional. You’re not alone, and help is always available.
Want to learn more about how to use AI in a healthy way? Reach out to Sebastiaan directly.
Read more from Sebastiaan van der Velden
Sebastiaan van der Velden, Life Coach & Transformational Guide
Seb (Sebastiaan) is the founder of the Transformational Meditation Group and has over 18 years of experience in the public healthcare sector, specializing in the medical use of radiation. With certifications in clinical hypnosis and as a HeartMath Facilitator and Practitioner, Sebastiaan integrates a deep understanding of cognitive neuroscience, psychology, epigenetics, and quantum physics into his work. He has over 20 years of meditation practice and offers courses, workshops, and private sessions that blend cutting-edge science with transformative spiritual practices.
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