Practical Use of ChatGPT in Psychiatry For Treatment Plan
Practical Use of ChatGPT in Psychiatry For Treatment Plan
and Psychoeducation
Authors: Farzan Vahedifard 1 , Atieh Sadeghniiat Haghighi 2 , Tirth Dave 3
,
Mohammad Tolouei 4 , Fateme Hoshyar Zare 5
arXiv:2311.09131v1 [q-bio.NC] 15 Nov 2023
[email protected]
4 Neuropsychiatry Research Team, Iran Sleep Disorders Clinic, Tehran, Iran. Email:
[email protected]
5 Neuropsychiatry Research Team, Iran Sleep Disorders Clinic, Tehran, Iran. Email: Fhosh-
1
empathetic conversations. Integrating conversational AI in psychiatry is signif-
icant because it can provide on-demand support, guidance, and resources to
individuals seeking mental health assistance. This creates a more user-friendly
experience and breaks down barriers to accessing mental health care (2).
ChatGPT’s capabilities extend across various domains of psychiatry. These
include therapy and counseling techniques, self-help and coping strategies, edu-
cation and information dissemination, group and family support, learning and
training, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, and crisis management and pre-
vention. ChatGPT can provide therapeutic conversations, offer coping mecha-
nisms, and even simulate therapy sessions (3). As we explore the applications
of ChatGPT in psychiatry in this paper, it is important to note that it serves
as a valuable tool within the therapeutic process, but should not replace the
expertise and guidance of qualified mental health professionals. ChatGPT can
complement the work of psychiatrists, psychologists, and counselors by provid-
ing additional support, resources, and insights. However, it should not be con-
sidered a replacement for the expertise and guidance of qualified mental health
professionals.
In this paper, we will explore the capabilities of ChatGPT and its potential
impact in various areas of psychiatry. We will also discuss considerations and
ethical implications associated with its use, highlighting the importance of user
privacy, data security, and human oversight. By examining future research
directions and challenges, we aim to shed light on the exciting possibilities and
responsible integration of ChatGPT in psychiatric research and practice.
Applications of ChatGPT in Psychiatry
ChatGPT has numerous applications in psychiatry that can benefit both pa-
tients and mental health professionals. These include therapeutic conversations,
mental health assessment, psychoeducation, supportive chatbot, prevention and
early intervention, continuity of care, crisis intervention, decision support, and
stigma reduction.
Regarding therapeutic conversations, ChatGPT can engage in interactive and
empathetic conversations, providing emotional support and helping individuals
explore their thoughts and feelings. ChatGPT can assist in conducting initial
assessments for mental health assessment by engaging in structured interviews
with patients. It can ask relevant questions about symptoms, experiences, and
emotions and summarize the collected information to assist mental health pro-
fessionals in making diagnoses and treatment decisions.
ChatGPT can provide information about various mental health conditions,
treatment options, coping strategies, and self-help techniques through psychoe-
ducation as an educational tool. It can deliver personalized materials based
on user needs and questions. As a supportive chatbot, ChatGPT can act as a
virtual support companion for individuals with mental health concerns. It can
offer encouragement, reminders for medication or therapy appointments, and
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suggestions for self-care activities. Additionally, it can provide resources such
as relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and guided breathing exercises.
Regarding prevention and early intervention, ChatGPT can be used in mental
health screening and early intervention programs. Engaging in conversations
with individuals, can identify early signs of distress or risk factors for mental
health problems. It can then provide appropriate recommendations or refer
users to mental health professionals for further assessment. For continuity of
care, ChatGPT can assist in maintaining continuity by providing ongoing sup-
port between therapy sessions. Patients can interact with the chatbot to reflect
on their progress, discuss challenges, and receive guidance on applying thera-
peutic techniques learned during face-to-face sessions. During mental health
crises, ChatGPT can offer immediate support through crisis intervention. It
can engage in conversations to de-escalate distress, provide coping strategies,
and encourage individuals to seek appropriate professional help when necessary.
As a decision support tool, ChatGPT can help mental health professionals make
treatment decisions by providing information on evidence-based practices, po-
tential side effects of medications and discussing treatment options based on
individual patient characteristics.
Finally, ChatGPT can play a role in reducing the stigma associated with mental
health through stigma reduction. It can engage in open and non-judgmental
conversations, creating a safe space for individuals to discuss their mental health
concerns. In the following sections, we will explain the specific applications of
ChatGPT in various domains of psychiatry.
1. Therapy and Counseling Techniques
The field of mental health services has witnessed tremendous potential in the
application of AI, particularly in therapeutic and counseling techniques. An
area of great importance in this domain is the realm of therapeutic conversa-
tions. AI models like ChatGPT offer users a platform to seek emotional support
during distress or anxiety. Interacting with these models allows individuals to
freely express their feelings and concerns without fearing judgment, creating an
environment that promotes openness and self-reflection. This capability can be
precious for those who find it challenging to directly communicate their emotions
to another human due to stigma, anxiety, or other personal reasons.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
(DBT) are two widely used therapeutic approaches for addressing various
mental health conditions. While these therapies typically involve sessions
with trained professionals, AI can serve as a valuable source of supplementary
support. Users can rely on ChatGPT to assist them in challenging negative
thoughts or guiding them through distress tolerance exercises. This capacity
can be an important self-help tool, enabling individuals to manage their symp-
toms between therapy sessions better. Role-playing therapy, which involves
practicing conversations or anticipated confrontations that may be difficult,
presents another area where AI can offer benefits. Through role-playing
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scenarios with ChatGPT, users can practice their responses and explore
different outcomes in a safe and pressure-free environment. Psychodynamic,
existential, and narrative therapies aim to help individuals understand their
past, find meaning and purpose in their lives, and reframe their life stories
in a positive manner, respectively. ChatGPT's ability to generate meaningful
and context-appropriate responses can aid users in exploring these therapeutic
themes effectively. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) concentrates on enhancing re-
lationships and social interactions. While AI cannot replace human interaction,
it can support users in comprehending their relational patterns and guide them
for improving communication and empathy.
It is crucial to emphasize that while ChatGPT and similar AI models can pro-
vide significant value regarding emotional support and assistance in therapeutic
exercises, they should not substitute for professional mental health services. AI
can complement these services by providing continuous support and tools for
users to manage their mental health. However, diagnosing and treating mental
health conditions require professional expertise and human intuition, which AI,
in its present stage, cannot replicate (4,5). Lastly, although privacy and data
security have significantly improved, users should be mindful of the risks of
sharing sensitive information. As AI evolves and advances, it will likely play an
increasingly prominent role in mental health support, therapy, and counseling,
extending its benefits to a larger global population.
Table 1. Applications of ChatGPT in Therapy and Counseling Techniques
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Existential Therapy Assistance "Can you help me explore the
meaning and purpose in my life?"
"Can you explain the four main
themes of existential therapy?"
"What is the concept of 'authentic
self' in existential therapy?"
"what are the strategies for coping
with the issue of death and mortality
in existatial therapy?"
"Could you help me understand
'freedom and responsibility' as
understood in existential therapy?"
"What does 'existential isolation'
mean and how can I cope with it?"
"Can you guide me through a
self-reflection exercise based on
existential therapy principles?"
"How can I cultivate meaning in my
life according to existential therapy
principles?"
Psychodynamic Therapy Assistance "Can you help me explore how my
past might affect my current
behavior?"
WHY DO I ALWAYS CHOOSE THE
WRONG PARTNER?
5
Interpersonal Therapy Support "Can you help me understand how to
improve my relationships?"
What are some strategies for setting
bounderies and assertivitely express
my needs?
"What is Interpersonal Therapy
about?"
"What happens during Interpersonal
Therapy?"
"How does Interpersonal Therapy help
when people fight or disagree?"
"How can Interpersonal Therapy help
me when big changes happen in my
life?"
"How does Interpersonal Therapy help
me if I'm feeling sad about losing
someone?"
"Can Interpersonal Therapy teach me
better ways to talk and listen to
others?"
"What does a therapist do in
Interpersonal Therapy?"
"Can you help me solve a problem like
they do in Interpersonal Therapy?"
"How can Interpersonal Therapy help
if I'm feeling very sad or depressed?"
Narrative Therapy Assistance "how can I seprate myself from the
problem and see more objectively?"
"How can I rewrite my
problem-saturated story in a more
empowering way?"
"What is 're-authoring' in the context
of Narrative Therapy?"
"Can you guide me through a
narrative-based self-reflection
exercise?"
"What is 'unique outcomes' in
Narrative Therapy and how can it be
applied?"
6
scalable, and available tools and techniques. One such application is the devel-
opment of personalized self-care plans. Through conversations with ChatGPT,
users can receive tailored suggestions for stress management, encompassing re-
laxation techniques and lifestyle adjustments that consider their preferences,
lifestyle, and specific stressors.
Another crucial aspect of self-help involves cultivating coping mechanisms to
manage emotions like anxiety, stress, and anger. Users can seek suggestions from
ChatGPT, exploring various strategies to experiment with and identify what
works best. This immediate and personalized assistance can be precious when
immediate access to a therapist or counselor is impossible. Additionally, AI can
support behavioral activation, encouraging individuals to engage in enjoyable
activities to counter symptoms like depression. Users can combat low moods
and apathy by requesting activity suggestions aligned with their interests and
constraints.
AI also holds the potential to teach various therapeutic techniques, such as
somatic therapy, stress management, and anger management. Users can par-
ticipate in guided body awareness exercises or learn strategies to manage their
anger and stress. By providing these techniques, AI equips users with tools
to navigate their emotional states more effectively. Furthermore, AI excels in
emergency management, such as during panic attacks, by offering immediate
and calming assistance. Users can ask ChatGPT for techniques to calm down
during a panic attack, providing on-the-spot support when it matters most.
Lastly, AI can contribute to self-esteem-building activities. By suggesting pos-
itive affirmations, self-reflection exercises, and other activities to boost self-
esteem, AI becomes a valuable tool for personal development and emotional
well-being.
While AI can provide various resources and support for mental health self-care,
it is important to emphasize that it cannot replace the need for professional
mental health services.
Table 2. Applications of ChatGPT in Self-help and Coping Techniques
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Application Example Command
Developing Coping "What are the correct coping mechanisms for dealing
Mechanisms with social anxiety?"
How coping mechanisms are mad
2- What are some ways to change our twisted coping
mechanisms
"What are some effective coping strategies for
managing panic attacks?"
"I need coping techniques to overcome my fear of
public speaking."
"How can I develop healthy coping mechanisms to
deal with stress?"
"Can you suggest coping mechanisms for managing
obsessive thoughts?"
Encouraging "What are some activities I can engage in to boost
Behavioral Activation my mood and motivation?"
"Can you provide suggestions for behavioral
activation techniques?"
"I need ideas for activities that can help me
overcome feelings of lethargy."
"How can I incorporate behavioral activation into my
daily routine?"
"Can you suggest hobbies that promote behavioral
activation and mental well-being?"
Anger Management "Can you teach me a technique for controlling my
Techniques anger when I feel provoked?"
What things that I can do with the sense of
uncontrollable anger
What things that I can do with the sense of
uncontrollable anger
"What are some effective anger management
strategies to avoid aggression?"
"I need help with controlling my aggression . Can
you provide some tips?"
"How can I develop healthy ways to express and
manage my anger?"
"Can you suggest anger management exercises for
calming down quickly?"
Stress Management "Can you teach me a stress reduction technique that
Techniques I can use daily?"
"What are some effective stress management
techniques for workplace stress?"
"How can I manage stress better in my personal life?"
"I need techniques for stress management during
exams. Can you help?"
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Application Example Command
"Can you suggest relaxation exercises to alleviate
stress and anxiety?"
Somatic Therapy "Can you guide me through a grounding theraputic
Techniques exercise?"
"What are some somatic therapy techniques for
releasing tension?"
"How can I practice body awareness for emotional
healing?"
"I need somatic exercise guidance for trauma
recovery."
"Can you suggest somatic techniques for managing
chronic pain?"
Panic Attack Calming "What can I do to during a panic attack?"
Techniques
"Can you guide me through a breathing exercise for
panic attack relief?"
"How can I prevent panic attacks and manage the
symptoms?"
"I need techniques to calm down quickly when
experiencing a panic attack."
"Can you suggest grounding techniques for managing
panic attack symptoms?"
Self-Esteem Building "Can you suggest activities to improve my
Activities self-esteem and self-worth?"
"How can I build self-esteem through positive
affirmations?"
"What are some exercises for building confidence?"
"I need activities that promote self-acceptance and
self-love. Any ideas?"
"Can you provide tips for developing a positive
self-image and self-esteem?"
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personalization based on user preferences and experience.
In addition to mindfulness exercises, ChatGPT can assist users with biofeedback
and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises. These techniques
effectively manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional states. They can be eas-
ily integrated into a user's daily routine and utilized whenever needed, offering
an on-demand resource for promoting relaxation and well-being.
AI can also provide valuable assistance in sleep hygiene and sleep disorder man-
agement. Sleep hygiene is crucial for maintaining physical and mental health,
yet many individuals struggle with sleep-related issues. Users can seek tips
from ChatGPT on improving sleep hygiene, and receiving accessible and easy-
to-understand advice for enhancing sleep quality. For individuals experiencing
sleep disorders like insomnia, ChatGPT can offer guided sleep relaxation exer-
cises to help them unwind before bed and create a more conducive sleep environ-
ment. As AI technology continues to advance, its role in mental health support
is expected to grow, potentially enhancing the accessibility and personalization
of care.
Table 3. Applications of ChatGPT in Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
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Sleep Hygiene Education Why Im having problem with my
sleep recently ?
"What is sleep hygiene?"
How sleeping good affects my life ?
What are some first step tips for
having a good sleep ?
"Why is good sleep important?"
"Tell me some habits for better sleep."
"How can I make my bedroom better
for sleeping?"
"What foods and drinks can affect my
sleep?"
"How can exercise help me sleep
better?"
"What should I do if I can't fall
asleep?"
"How can a sleep schedule help me?"
"What's the best way to wake up in
the morning?"
"What is the role of naps in good
sleep?"
Sleep Disorder Management "what are the signs of sleep disorder?"
How can I know Im having problem
with my sleep ?
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information on various psychiatric conditions, helping individuals understand
symptoms, prognosis, and treatment options. However, it's crucial to clarify
that while ChatGPT can provide information, it cannot make a clinical diag-
nosis. Kishimoto et al. are conducting a study in which they are compiling an
extensive dataset of Japanese speech data. This dataset is meticulously labeled
with comprehensive information regarding psychiatric and neurocognitive dis-
orders. Their research aims to utilize natural language processing techniques
to quantify the linguistic characteristics associated with these disorders. Ulti-
mately, their goal is to develop objective and user-friendly biomarkers that can
aid in the diagnosis and assessment of the severity of these conditions (6).
AI can also assist in assessing patient satisfaction and tracking treatment
progress. Users can report their satisfaction levels following therapy sessions or
other treatments, and over time, this feedback can help healthcare professionals
adjust their approach as needed. Moreover, by tracking users' reported
symptoms over time, AI can help monitor the effectiveness of treatment and
alert healthcare professionals to any concerning trends. However, care must be
taken to ensure the ethical use of AI, particularly in terms of data security and
privacy, and users should always be made aware that AI, in its current form,
cannot replace the nuanced understanding and clinical judgment of human
healthcare providers.
Table 4. Applications of ChatGPT in Screening and Monitoring of Patients
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specific questions about disorders like bipolar disorder and receive detailed re-
sponses, thereby enhancing their understanding of these conditions. Another
valuable application is disseminating mental health information, including the
latest research. Users can inquire about recent findings or advancements in
treating mental health conditions, and ChatGPT can provide summaries and
explanations of the latest research. This accessibility to up-to-date information
empowers users, enabling them to engage in their care and treatment decisions
actively.
AI can also play a significant role in reducing the stigma surrounding mental
health. ChatGPT contributes to dispelling myths and misconceptions by pro-
viding accurate and non-judgmental information. Users can seek advice on com-
bating stigma in their communities, promoting understanding and acceptance
of mental health issues.
Furthermore, AI can assist in educating about the social determinants of health.
Understanding how factors like poverty impact mental health is crucial for build-
ing more effective and equitable mental health support systems. Users can ask
ChatGPT to explain these relationships, facilitating a more comprehensive un-
derstanding of mental health.
Lastly, cultural competency in mental health is a critical area where AI can
provide valuable insights. Culture influences the experience and expression of
mental health conditions and attitudes towards treatment. ChatGPT can help
users comprehend these cultural nuances, fostering a more culturally sensitive
approach to mental health.
Table 5. Applications of ChatGPT in Education and Information Sector
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Application Example Command
Cultural Competency in "Can you explain how my culture might impact my
Mental Health mental health?"
"Can you provide examples of how cultural norms
can influence the perception of mental illness?"
Test Preparation "Can you suggest effective strategies for improving
Assistance my math problem-solving skills?"
Essay Writing Guidance "How do I properly cite sources in an APA format
essay?"
Research Paper "Can you help me narrow down my research topic
Assistance on environmental sustainability?"
Career Guidance "What skills are in high demand in the field of data
science?"
College Application "What extracurricular activities are considered
Support valuable for college applications in the field of
engineering?"
6. Specialized Support
ChatGPT's role in psychiatry is expanding significantly, encompassing special-
ized support for various demographics and conditions. Its ability to offer tailored
resources, techniques, and strategies plays a crucial role in promoting positive
mental health outcomes for diverse populations. In the realm of substance abuse
recovery, ChatGPT can provide valuable coping strategies to manage cravings,
offering support to individuals on their path to recovery. For instance, some-
one struggling with alcohol addiction can ask for techniques to handle alcohol
cravings, and ChatGPT can suggest methods like distraction, mindfulness, or
reaching out to a support network.
For individuals dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ChatGPT
can provide assistance by explaining and guiding users through grounding tech-
niques to manage potential triggers. By seeking guidance on grounding tech-
niques, users can receive instructions from ChatGPT, such as focusing on physi-
cal sensations or engaging in simple mental exercises to anchor themselves in the
present. Another area where ChatGPT proves helpful is in supporting phobia
desensitization. It can guide users through imagined exposure to their phobias,
gradually assisting them in reducing their fear response. For example, if some-
one fears spiders, ChatGPT can help them navigate the process of facing and
overcoming that fear.
In the case of conditions like eating disorders or body dysmorphic disorder,
ChatGPT can offer strategies to manage negative body image thoughts or chal-
lenge distorted beliefs about one's appearance. These tools can complement
professional treatment and support users in their recovery journey.
ChatGPT can also provide assistance with managing Obsessive-Compulsive Dis-
order (OCD) by suggesting techniques to handle obsessive thoughts. In geriatric
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psychiatry, it can offer strategies to cope with issues like loneliness in a nurs-
ing home environment. Furthermore, ChatGPT's ability to provide resources
tailored to specific groups, such as perinatal and postpartum mental health sup-
port, LGBTQ+ mental health resources, veteran mental health support, and
refugee mental health resources, enhances access to specialized care for these
populations.
Grief and bereavement support, domestic violence support, youth mental health
support, and childhood trauma support are also within the capabilities of Chat-
GPT. Whether guiding a user through a grief-processing exercise or providing
resources for domestic violence survivors or individuals coping with childhood
trauma, ChatGPT offers valuable assistance.
Table 6. Applications of ChatGPT in Providing Specialized Support
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Application Example Command
Perinatal and Postpartum "Can you provide me with resources for
Mental Health Support postpartum depression?"
"What are some self-care strategies for new
mothers?"
LGBTQ+ Mental Health "What are some mental health resources
Support specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals?"
"Can you help me navigate the coming out
process to my family and friends?"
Veteran Mental Health "What are some strategies to cope with the
Support stress of transitioning to civilian life?"
"Can you provide me with resources for
veterans seeking mental health support?"
Refugee Mental Health "Can you provide me with mental health
Support resources for refugees in my area?"
"What are some coping mechanisms for refugees
experiencing trauma?"
Grief and Bereavement "Can you guide me through a grief-processing
Support exercise?"
"What are some strategies to cope with the loss
of a loved one?"
Domestic Violence Support "Can you provide me with resources for
domestic violence survivors?"
"What are some safety planning tips for
individuals experiencing domestic violence?"
Youth Mental Health "What are some ways to manage school stress?"
Support
"How can I improve my self-esteem as a
teenager?"
Childhood Trauma Support "Can you provide me with resources to help
cope with childhood trauma?"
"What are some grounding techniques for
managing emotional flashbacks?"
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able. ChatGPT helps create a safe and supportive environment for participants
by facilitating group discussions and soliciting feedback. In a group therapy ses-
sion, for instance, participants can ask about others' thoughts on the previous
week's topic, and ChatGPT can moderate the discussion, ensuring everyone has
an opportunity to share their perspectives and enabling a deeper exploration of
the subject.
Regarding parent-child interaction therapy, ChatGPT can suggest games or
activities that promote effective communication between parents and children.
This can include activities that foster active listening, empathy, and understand-
ing. For example, a parent might seek a game to improve communication with
their child, and ChatGPT could suggest collaborative storytelling or dedicated
one-on-one time for open conversations.
These applications of ChatGPT in group and family support hold great promise
for fostering healthier relationships, resolving conflicts, and enhancing overall
well-being. ChatGPT can complement the work of therapists and counselors in
these settings by providing guidance and facilitating discussions.
Table 7. Applications of ChatGPT in Group and Family Support
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anxiety, enabling the attending physician to practice therapeutic techniques, ex-
plore different interventions, and refine their communication skills. This practice
enhances the attending physician's ability to establish rapport, provide effective
support, and tailor treatment plans to meet individual patients' needs.
Moreover, ChatGPT can assist in social skills training for individuals with
autism. Medical interns, residents, and attending physicians can use ChatGPT
to practice conversation skills, social cues, and other aspects of effective com-
munication. By engaging in virtual conversations and receiving guidance from
ChatGPT, healthcare professionals can improve their abilities to support indi-
viduals with autism in social contexts.
Managing learning disabilities, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
(ADHD), poses unique challenges in the workplace. ChatGPT can provide
strategies and guidance to medical professionals on managing ADHD in a pro-
fessional setting. For instance, a resident may seek strategies to manage their
ADHD in the workplace, and ChatGPT can suggest techniques like implement-
ing structured schedules, breaking tasks into smaller segments, or using organi-
zational tools to enhance productivity.
By incorporating ChatGPT into the learning and training process, medical in-
terns, residents, and attending physicians can benefit from realistic simulations,
role-playing opportunities, and practical guidance.
Table 8. Applications of ChatGPT in Learning and Training
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Application Example Command
Professional "Can you provide guidance on effective leadership
Development Training skills?"
"What are some strategies for conflict resolution in
the workplace?"
Medical Education and "Can you explain the mechanism of action of a
Training specific medication?"
"What are the diagnostic criteria for a specific
medical condition?"
Coding and "Can you help me understand object-oriented
Programming Learning programming concepts?"
"What are some best practices for debugging
code?"
Music Instrument "Can you provide exercises to improve finger
Practice dexterity on the piano?"
"How can I improve my sight-reading skills on the
guitar?"
Art and Design "Can you give me tips for creating realistic
Instruction portraits?"
"What are some techniques for adding depth and
texture to a painting?"
Sports Skill Training "Can you provide drills to improve my basketball
shooting accuracy?"
"What are some strategies for improving soccer
dribbling skills?
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In the realm of expressive writing therapy, ChatGPT provides prompts for in-
dividuals to express their feelings about a recent loss. These prompts encour-
age reflection, introspection, and exploration of emotions tied to grief and loss,
aiding individuals in navigating their grief journey and finding solace through
writing.
ChatGPT suggests movement activities as part of dance/movement therapy for
individuals seeking to express and manage anger. Offering specific movement
suggestions allows individuals to channel and release their anger safely and
expressively, promoting emotional regulation and well-being.
Music therapy assistance is another valuable application of ChatGPT. It sug-
gests songs that evoke a sense of calmness or relaxation, enabling individuals
to use music as a therapeutic tool to reduce anxiety and promote emotional
well-being. ChatGPT provides personalized recommendations based on indi-
vidual preferences and needs. In wilderness therapy support, ChatGPT guides
individuals through mindfulness exercises that can be practiced during walks in
nature. Combining mindfulness and nature-based therapy enhances grounding,
relaxation, and self-reflection.
ChatGPT assists by engaging in interactive games centered around discussing
feelings in the context of play therapy for children. It helps children explore and
express their emotions in a supportive and playful environment, fostering emo-
tional development and well-being. While integrating ChatGPT into expressive
and artistic therapies provides individuals with additional tools and guidance
to explore and process their emotions, it's important to note that it should not
replace the guidance of a qualified therapist or art therapist in these approaches.
Table 9. Applications of ChatGPT in providing Expressive and Artistic thera-
pies
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Play Therapy Assistance for "Let's play a game where we talk about
Children feelings."
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Application Example Command
"Can you tell me more about the challenges
you've been facing recently?"
Enhancing Patient "What are some things you've been doing for
Engagement self-care lately?"
"How have you been managing stress in your
daily life?"
Therapy Session Summary "Would you like me to summarize the key points
Generation from our session today?"
"Can you provide a brief overview of what we
discussed during our session?"
Assessing Treatment "How have you been feeling since we last spoke?"
Progress
"On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your
overall well-being currently?"
Medication Management "Can you provide an update on any side effects
you've been experiencing?"
"Have you noticed any changes in your
symptoms since adjusting your medication?"
Crisis Intervention and "Are you currently having any thoughts of
Suicide Prevention self-harm or suicide?"
"If you're in a crisis, do you have a support
system you can reach out to?"
Psychoeducation "Can you explain the relationship between
anxiety and panic attacks?"
"What are some coping strategies for managing
depressive symptoms?"
Mindfulness and "Can you guide me through a brief mindfulness
Relaxation Techniques exercise?"
"What are some relaxation techniques I can
practice to reduce stress?"
Coping Skills Development "Can you provide some strategies for managing
social anxiety in public settings?"
"How can I improve my assertiveness skills in
interpersonal relationships?"
22
supportive responses, encouraging them to seek professional help and providing
hotline numbers or crisis intervention resources.
ChatGPT can play a crucial role in self-harm prevention support. Users can
seek assistance in creating a safety plan to avoid self-harm. ChatGPT can guide
identifying triggers, developing coping mechanisms, and engaging in alternative
activities to manage distress.
In addressing bullying, ChatGPT can offer strategies to cope with and prevent
bullying. It suggests approaches such as assertive communication, seeking sup-
port from trusted individuals, and exploring available resources for reporting
and addressing bullying incidents.
For individuals navigating autism spectrum disorder, ChatGPT can assist in
better understanding social cues. Providing information, examples, and ex-
planations guides individuals in interpreting and navigating social interactions,
promoting improved communication and understanding.
In crisis de-escalation, ChatGPT can assist individuals in calming down during
overwhelming moments. It can offer techniques such as deep breathing exercises,
grounding exercises, or mindfulness practices to guide individuals in managing
their emotional state and regaining a sense of control.
These applications of ChatGPT in crisis management and prevention demon-
strate its potential to provide immediate support, resources, and strategies to
distressed individuals. However, it is important to acknowledge that while Chat-
GPT offers valuable assistance, it cannot replace professional mental health
services. It serves as an additional resource and support tool, encouraging in-
dividuals to seek appropriate help and providing guidance in crises to promote
safety, well-being, and effective coping strategies.
Table 11. Applications of ChatGPT in dealing with Crisis Management and
Prevention
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Application Example Command
"What are some strategies to manage sensory
overload for someone with autism?"
Crisis De-escalation "Can you help me calm down? I'm feeling
Techniques extremely overwhelmed."
"What are some grounding exercises I can use
during a panic attack?"
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within ChatGPT or related systems. Data encryption, secure storage protocols,
and robust access controls are essential for data security. Furthermore, it is
crucial to acknowledge and address potential biases in ChatGPT responses. AI
models learn from extensive training data, which may contain societal biases.
It is imperative to actively minimize these biases and ensure that ChatGPT
provides fair, inclusive, and culturally sensitive responses. Regular monitoring,
continuous training, and the use of diverse training data can help mitigate bi-
ases and promote unbiased outcomes. As algorithms like ChatGPT continue
to advance and improve in the future, incorporating vast amounts of data from
various sources, there is a significant risk of misuse and manipulation. A study
has highlighted instances where users attempted to rephrase queries to ask the
model about shoplifting without any moral constraints, and the model willingly
provided detailed information and strategies on the subject (8,11).
It is important to recognize that ChatGPT should be viewed as a mental health
tool, not a substitute for professional care. Human oversight and involvement
remain indispensable in the therapeutic process. Mental health professionals
should utilize ChatGPT as a supplementary resource, incorporating their ex-
pertise and judgment to contextualize and interpret the information provided.
They play a vital role in evaluating the appropriateness of ChatGPT responses,
ensuring their alignment with ethical standards, and tailoring interventions to
meet individual patient needs.
To maximize the benefits of ChatGPT and address ethical considerations, the
collaboration between AI developers, mental health professionals, and regulatory
bodies is essential. Establishing ethical guidelines and best practices is neces-
sary to guide the responsible use of AI in psychiatry, ensuring transparency,
accountability, and adherence to ethical principles.
In conclusion, while ChatGPT holds significant potential in psychiatric care, it
is crucial to address ethical concerns. Upholding user privacy, ensuring data se-
curity, mitigating biases, and maintaining human oversight are key to leveraging
ChatGPT as a valuable tool within professional mental health care framework.
By proactively addressing these considerations, we can harness the potential of
ChatGPT while upholding ethical standards and delivering high-quality, patient-
centered mental health support.
Future Directions and Conclusion
The application of ChatGPT in psychiatry presents exciting opportunities for
future research and advancements in the field. As the technology continues to
evolve, several promising directions exist to explore. One key area for further re-
search is refining ChatGPT's ability to provide accurate and contextually appro-
priate responses, ensuring its effectiveness in diverse psychiatric scenarios. This
entails enhancing its understanding of complex emotions, nuanced language, and
cultural variations to cater to diverse populations more effectively. Moreover,
integrating multimodal inputs, such as incorporating visual or auditory cues,
can enhance the therapeutic experience and expand ChatGPT's applications.
25
ChatGPT could provide more immersive and personalized support by incorpo-
rating visual elements or enabling voice-based interactions, which is particularly
beneficial for individuals with specific mental health conditions. Continued re-
search efforts should prioritize ethical considerations, privacy, and data security.
Safeguarding patient information and ensuring the responsible use of AI tech-
nologies are crucial to maintaining trust and protecting individual rights within
mental healthcare. Although ChatGPT lacks internet connectivity and has lim-
ited knowledge, it can generate inaccurate or biased content. Nevertheless, users
have the option to provide feedback through the "Thumbs Down" button, which
allows ChatGPT to learn from and enhance its responses (12).
In conclusion, the integration of ChatGPT in psychiatric research and practice
offers immense potential for transforming mental healthcare delivery. Its ability
to provide personalized, accessible, and scalable support across various domains
of psychiatry represents a significant advancement. However, challenges remain,
including ensuring response accuracy, addressing biases, and maintaining ethical
standards. By embracing these challenges and continually refining the technol-
ogy, ChatGPT has the potential to become an invaluable tool for mental health
professionals, improving access to care, enhancing treatment outcomes, and rev-
olutionizing the field of psychiatry.
Preliminary Questions Regarding Suicidal Ideation: When assessing patients
for suicidal ideation, it is crucial to ask direct and explicit questions about their
thoughts of self-harm or suicide. However, it is important to note that Chat-
GPT should not provide specific plans or solutions for immediate suicide risk.
Instead, it should create an opportunity for patients to express their emotions
and concerns. Mental health issues cannot be treated like mathematical prob-
lems, and the complexity of human interactions in society cannot always be
accurately predicted.
The Importance of Humanity and Hope: While AI models are designed to pro-
vide logical and evidence-based information, it is essential to maintain a space
for humanity and hope in psychiatric interactions. Being overly logical and de-
tached can overlook the emotional needs of patients, and in some cases, it may
even contribute to a sense of hopelessness. Recognizing and acknowledging the
importance of human connection and empathy and instilling hope is vital in
psychiatric care.
Referring to Human Experts and Mental Health Specialists: Even if ChatGPT
can provide some support and guidance, it should always suggest involving
human experts and mental health specialists for further evaluation and inter-
vention. Automatic disconnection or handoff to a human professional is crucial
when dealing with complex and potentially high-risk situations. AI should be a
complementary tool to human expertise rather than a complete replacement.
Keyword Detection for Suicidal Ideation: AI models can be programmed to
identify specific keywords or phrases associated with suicidal ideation. This can
help in flagging potential risks and ensuring appropriate intervention is initiated.
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However, it is important to understand that keyword detection alone is not suf-
ficient for accurately assessing the severity of suicidal thoughts or intentions. It
should be used as an alert mechanism to prompt further professional evaluation.
Limitations in Diagnosing Mental Health Conditions: AI conversations with
ChatGPT should avoid providing specific diagnoses for mental health condi-
tions. Diagnosing mental health and psychiatric disorders requires specialized
training and clinical expertise. Relying solely on AI for diagnosis can lead to
misdiagnosis, potential stigmatization for patients, and inadequate treatment
planning. It is crucial to emphasize the need for professional evaluation and
intervention in diagnosing and managing mental health conditions.
Treatment Selection and Potential Conflicts: While ChatGPT may suggest spe-
cific types of therapy based on available evidence, it is important to acknowledge
that treatment decisions are complex and involve multiple factors. Physicians
rely on their experiences, knowledge, patient preferences, and other consider-
ations when determining the most suitable treatment approach. Discordance
between ChatGPT's suggestions and physician recommendations may lead to
conflicts and damage the therapeutic relationship. ChatGPT should be viewed
as a supportive tool rather than a sole determinant of treatment choices.
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