The prevalence and severity of the decline of mental wellbeing has continued to increase over the last two decades, with rates of reported mental wellbeing concerns nearly double for women compared to men. The widespread use of AI and its consistently reported negative impacts on human cognitive performance contributes significantly to this decline.

In this unscripted, open conversation, we summarise what recent studies show and what steps someone can take if they are experiencing negative impacts of technology on their cognitive and mental fitness. As you listen, we encourage you to do a little audit:

* What is my partner’s or close friend’s phone number?

* When is the last time I read a physical book?

* Have I pet my dog or cat today?

* What question do I really want to know the answer to? Who can I ask?

* When was the last time I travelled to a new place without relying on GPS?

* Can I make simple mental calculations without relying on a calculator in my mobile device?

* When was the last time I read an article discussing a viewpoint opposite to the beliefs I currently hold?

References & Literature

“It happened to be the perfect thing”: experiences of generative AI chatbots for mental health | npj Mental Health Research

[2504.18412] Expressing stigma and inappropriate responses prevents LLMs from safely replacing mental health providers

Artificial Intelligence for Mental Health and Mental Illnesses: an Overview | Current Psychiatry Reports

AI therapy bots fuel delusions and give dangerous advice, Stanford study finds - Ars Technica

One in four young people in England have mental health condition, NHS survey finds | Mental health | The Guardian

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