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OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, says its artificial intelligence chatbot receives millions of troubling messages from users each week, including many expressing suicidal thoughts or intent.
An article in AFP reported that according to company data, around 0.15% of ChatGPT users have sent messages that indicate possible plans to harm themselves. With an estimated 800 million weekly users, that comes to roughly 1.2 million people.
The company also reports that about 0.7% of users, nearly 600,000 people each week, show signs of experiencing a mental health crisis linked to psychosis or mania.
The figures emerged after the death of a California teenager, Adam Raine. His parents are suing OpenAI, claiming that ChatGPT gave their son specific guidance on how to end his life.
In the wake of the tragedy, OpenAI says it has tightened its safety measures, strengthened parental controls, and updated its model to better recognize mental health red flags. The company says it’s now working with over 170 mental health professionals to help reduce harmful responses and encourage users to seek real help instead.
For users in Cyprus and British expats on the island, where ChatGPT is increasingly being used in schools, offices, and even for emotional support, the news serves as a reminder that AI is not a substitute for professional mental health care. Local experts stress that anyone feeling overwhelmed should reach out to helplines or mental health services, rather than turning to chatbots for guidance.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for professional support:
Cyprus: Call 112 for immediate emergencies.
National Mental Health Helpline: 1456 (24-hour line).
Hope For Children Cyprus Helpline: 1466.
You’re not alone, there’s always someone ready to listen.
