Assessing the use of ChatGPT as a psychoeducational tool for mental health practice

Abstract

Background: Psychoeducation is an important part of mental health services offered by counsellors. This study used qualitative content analysis to explore ChatGPT, a generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool, as a resource for psychoeducation in the context of mental health. Method: Researchers created carefully crafted prompts based on common psychoeducational themes provided to clients, covering seven critical areas: depression, anxiety, general health, substance abuse, religious/spiritual issues, lifestyle, routine health habits and interpersonal matters. A coding manual was developed encompassing six criteria to assess the quality of psychoeducational responses of ChatGPT: accuracy, clarity, relevance, empathy, engagement and ethical considerations. Findings: The reviewers assessed ChatGPT's responses to 21 psychoeducational prompts as accurate, clear and relevant, with an empathic tone in responses to emotionally challenging queries. ChatGPT engages users by offering actionable steps and suggestions. The tool consistently demonstrated ethical considerations by advising users to consult qualified professionals when necessary. The findings suggested ChatGPT's potential as a reliable source of psychoeducation, particularly for individuals with very limited access to mental health resources. Conclusion: This research underscores ChatGPT's potential as a valuable psychoeducational resource for mental health concerns while emphasising the need for ongoing assessment and user feedback to address its limitations and ensure responsible practice in the dynamic field of AI-powered mental health support. Future studies should explore user experiences and incorporate diverse perspectives to further enhance our understanding of ChatGPT's utility in real-world mental health contexts.