Six in ten people turn to AI for mental health support
Six in ten people in Ireland are now turning to artificial intelligence (AI) platforms for mental health support, with a third saying that the advice has led to harmful behaviour.
In Ireland, six out of ten individuals are increasingly relying on artificial intelligence (AI) platforms for mental health support, according to recent research from Laya Healthcare, a subsidiary of AXA. This finding is part of the AXA Mind Health Report 2026, a global study conducted by Ipsos across 19,000 people in 18 countries, including 1,000 participants from Ireland.
Among those in Ireland utilizing AI for mental health guidance, 42% stated they virtually always follow AI advice without question, while 39% expressed feelings of unease or concern after using AI platforms.
The study revealed that more people in Ireland have sought mental health assistance through AI than through traditional healthcare professionals. In Ireland, 33% of respondents admitted to taking sick leave due to mental health issues, which is significantly higher than the global average of 24%. Moreover, one in five people in Ireland is currently struggling with mental health challenges, and six out of ten are turning to AI for advice.
Dr. Emelina Ellis, Clinical Lead at Laya Healthcare's 24/7 Mental Wellbeing service, emphasized the potential benefits of AI when it is responsibly designed, clinically governed, and used safely. She highlighted that AI can help identify mental health needs earlier, improve access to support, and enable more personalized care. However, Dr. Ellis cautioned that technology should enhance, not replace, human care.
When individuals transition from everyday stress to genuine distress, they require more than informational support.
Written by urgent.news from RTE News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
