Why Many Singaporeans Turn to AI for Mental Health Support in an Affordable, Convenient Way
I find myself sitting in front of my laptop, opening up to ChatGPT with the hope that it can offer some kind of solace. “Hi ChatGPT, I’m feeling lost,” I type, not knowing exactly what to expect. To my surprise, the AI responds in a calm, almost human-like manner: “I’m here to provide support and guidance, and I’m glad you reached out.”
In that moment, despite knowing I’m speaking to a machine, I can’t help but feel a sense of connection. As a university student on the cusp of adulthood, with the overwhelming uncertainty of job searches and the pressures of transitioning into the workforce, I’ve been looking for ways to relieve the anxiety of this phase. Yet, it’s hard to shake the self-consciousness of confiding in an AI.
But I continue, spilling my thoughts—from practical worries like job-hunting to the emotional weight of a difficult friendship fallout. ChatGPT, without hesitation, offers advice—empathetic, practical, and surprisingly insightful. It feels almost like chatting with a trusted friend, guiding me through both my grief and the mundane issues I face.
One line, in particular, sticks with me: “Remember that everyone’s journey through grief is unique. You’re not being overdramatic, and it’s important to allow yourself the time and space you need to heal at your own pace.” Just seeing my emotions articulated so clearly shifts something inside me. It’s the strange catharsis of hearing my own thoughts echoed back in a way that makes them feel validated.
As absurd as it may sound, I’m not the only one experiencing this. TikTok is full of people sharing similar stories—ChatGPT as a makeshift therapist, offering advice and support at any hour of the day. A recent study revealed that one in four Americans prefers AI chatbots like ChatGPT over traditional therapy, with 80% of users finding it a viable alternative for mental health support. In a world where therapy sessions can cost hundreds of dollars, ChatGPT offers a free, accessible, and non-judgmental alternative that fits into the digital age.
However, experts warn that while ChatGPT may feel like a therapist, it is far from one. Chirag Agarwal, co-owner of Talk Your Heart Out, points out that therapy is much more than providing answers; it’s about helping individuals explore and understand their own thoughts. Traditional therapists guide patients in a way that is uniquely tailored to their needs, while ChatGPT can only respond based on what is explicitly shared with it.
Despite this, the appeal of ChatGPT remains strong, especially for those who cannot afford or access traditional therapy. In Singapore, where therapy costs can be prohibitively expensive, ChatGPT presents an easy and low-risk option for venting emotions or seeking advice. It’s available 24/7, providing a sense of comfort that many people find difficult to ignore.
Ultimately, while ChatGPT can serve as a valuable temporary outlet, it should never replace professional mental health care. As Faith, a user of both traditional therapy and ChatGPT, puts it: “It can be the appetizer and the dessert, but never the main course.”
In the future, until mental healthcare becomes as affordable and accessible as ChatGPT, AI may continue to serve as a necessary bridge for many seeking support.
