A senior NHS mental health director has issued a strong warning to the public about the risks of using artificial intelligence chatbots for mental health support over the Christmas holidays.
Rising Reliance on AI for Wellbeing
Dr Adrian James, the national medical director for mental health at NHS England, stressed that while AI is a "fantastic resource when used appropriately," it "cannot be relied upon for everything and in some cases can be dangerous." His comments follow a recent survey by the charity Mental Health UK, which found that 37 per cent of the 2,000 adults polled had used an AI chatbot to support their mental health or wellbeing.
The survey, conducted in November 2025, revealed that around four in ten people turned to AI due to its ease of access. Almost a quarter cited long waiting times for help on the NHS as a key reason.
Specific Dangers During the Festive Period
Dr James, a practising psychiatrist, highlighted particular concerns for the Christmas season. "During the festive period, I know Christmas can affect mental health in lots of different ways, whether it be financial pressures or feeling isolated," he said. He emphasised it is "vital" people know they can access the NHS via 111, online talking therapies, or their GP.
He elaborated on the specific risks posed by AI chatbots: "The vast majority of AI chatbots do not have access to your mental health history, cannot fully understand the nuances during a serious mental health situation, and can give completely wrong advice." He expressed his "biggest worry" for users at risk of psychosis, noting chatbots have an "in-built preference to agree" while lacking the ability to challenge dangerous thoughts, potentially increasing risks of self-harm or suicide.
Urging Professional Support and App Use
Dr James urged anyone with concerns to seek professional help promptly. "The best support for your mental health comes from a trained healthcare provider," he stated, directing people to the NHS talking therapy service online or their GP for issues like depression and anxiety, and to phone 111 in a crisis.
In related news, NHS England highlighted the growing use of the official NHS app for general health management. The service now has more than 39 million registered users across England. On Christmas Day last year, over 313,000 people used the app, averaging more than 200 logins every minute.
Jules Hunt, interim director general for technology, digital and data, encouraged the public to use the app's features over the festive season for tasks like prescription tracking and health advice. She reiterated that A&E and 999 should be used for life-threatening emergencies, with 111 Online and the NHS app for less urgent conditions.
