Risks in AI-powered mental health support

Merrill, who studies the intersection of technology and health communication, was interviewed by Spectrum News to discuss safeguards over AI and health communications.

The interview points out that while Ohio no laws regulating AI in mental health, several states have already acted: Illinois bans AI from being marketed as therapy without licensed oversight, Nevada prohibits AI from presenting itself as a provider, and Utah requires AI chatbots to disclose their nonhuman nature and protect user data.

Merrill urges Ohio lawmakers to follow suit and “protect people over profit.” The assistant professor of health communication and technology in UC’s School of Communication, Film, and Media Studies has spent more than five years researching how digital tools affect well-being, motivated in part by his father’s death from cancer.

His recent study on AI companions found that while about a third of participants reported feeling happier after using them, Merrill cautions that the tools pose risks—including privacy concerns, unrealistic expectations of human relationships, and even dependency. To address these issues, he stresses the importance of “AI literacy,” so users understand what AI can and cannot do.

Merrill also argues that companies should build in safeguards, such as usage reminders and prompts to seek professional help. He supports temporary bans on AI therapy while research catches up, saying the tools should supplement, not replace, overburdened mental health systems.

Watch the interview and read the story.

Feature photo at top iStock photo: AleksandarGeorgiev.