Setting Realistic Expectations During the Holidays

                 The holidays can be a difficult time for people with depression and other mental illnesses. This time of year is usually tough for me. I feel my depression worsening as the holidays near. I often feel a sense of dread and worry that I will not be able to cope with holiday gatherings. Even just seeing decorations and gifts fill stores or hearing holiday music on the radio can trigger my depression. So, how do people like me get through this time of year that most people find festive, when we struggle with the darkness of mental illness?

                  One way is to acknowledge that what we are feeling is real. We are experiencing an increase in the symptoms of our mental illness. Not only is it real, but it is also okay. We do not need to apologize for our struggles. We do not need to explain ourselves to others. It is okay to not be okay during the holidays. We are not alone. There are actually statistics to back this up. In a 2022 poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association, researchers found that 38% of Americans state that their mood declines during the winter months. This is a significant amount of people. In a survey conducted by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) 24% of people with diagnosed mental illness said that the holidays make their condition “a lot worse”. Another 40% of respondents said the holidays make their conditions “somewhat worse”. These results tell me that what I feel is real and I am not alone. 

                  How do we approach the holidays when we know that it is likely to be a difficult time? One of the most important things is to set realistic expectations. Do not expect your mood to be something it is not. It is important not to pressure yourself to enjoy holiday events. Just because others are cheerful does not mean you have to be. It is okay to have a different experience than others if the holidays do not feel okay to you. Part of this involves setting boundaries. You can say no to holiday plans. You can leave events early. You can shop online instead of going into stores full of holiday reminders. The important thing is to allow yourself to determine what you will and will not do. If something is going to negatively impact your mental health, it is okay to say no.

                  Another strategy is to recognize that socializing can be overwhelming. Only attend gatherings that feel safe to you. Remember that you can leave gatherings early. Seeing others being cheerful can be difficult when depression is bearing down on you. This is something I deal with every year. Some years it is worse than others. What has made the biggest difference for me is recognizing that I control what I do and who I spend time with. I also remind myself that just because others are cheerful does not mean I have to be. It is okay to just be who I am and feel what I am feeling.

                  Another important strategy is to plan for tough times. Be aware of what your triggers are. The holidays can trigger memories, loneliness, and family tension. As you prepare for the holidays identify what affects you. Once you have identified these, make a plan to utilize coping strategies. These strategies can be anything that helps you deal with difficult times. Some suggestions include breathing exercises, walks, listening to a playlist, talking to a trusted individual. It may also be necessary to plan for an extra therapy session. Do not be afraid to schedule an extra appointment. Whatever your coping strategies, remember that you have these strategies so that you can use them. One strategy I use is extra journaling. I allow myself to write about the feelings the holidays bring up for me. Getting these feelings out of me and onto the pages of my journal provides me with a sense of relief. Spend some time considering what strategies will help you cope with the holidays.

                  Something I had not thought about until recent years is getting exposure to light. The holidays coincide with more darkness. The sun goes down earlier. There is less light. There is evidence that gloomier weather can dampen mood. So, plan exposure to light. Maybe go for a walk during daylight hours. There are light therapy lamps that can be used. I have never used one, but it is worth giving a try. 

                  One more important thing to do when the holidays affect your mood is to practice being kind toward yourself. You do not have to be cheerful during the holidays. You are not less because you do not feel festive. You do not need to enjoy the holidays. Mental illness is real. There are difficult times of the year. Our mood can worsen when others expect it to be better. Remind yourself that all of this is okay. Do not judge yourself or place unrealistic expectations on yourself. 

                  I do not know how I will handle the holidays this year. Some years are better than others for me. One thing I know is that I am allowed to feel the way I do. I am not going to judge myself. I will choose what holiday activities and events I engage in and for how long I stay. My depression is real. The holidays are difficult, but that is okay. If the holidays are difficult for you, remember that it is okay. Do what you need to do for yourself to get through the holidays.

If you have any holiday coping strategies that might help others, write them in the comments section. They just might help someone else. 

                  

                  

Extending Love to Those Who Are Alone During the Holidays

                  The holiday season is upon us. How is it Thanksgiving already? It is hard to believe it is that time of year, but it is. The signs are all around us. Stores have their holiday displays and decorations. My coffee place has their holiday drinks ready for those needing a festive caffeine boost. Holiday lights are starting to appear on houses. Of course, today many people will gather with loved ones to eat a traditional meal of turkey and all the sides while enjoying each other. But what about those who are alone? I would like to take some time to discuss those who find themselves alone during the holidays.

                  There are many reasons why a person might be alone during the holidays. Some are painful reasons. As we gather this holiday season, let’s take a moment to reach out to those who may need a little love and support. Some reasons a person might be alone or unable to celebrate a holiday are not as painful as others. Maybe a person is an essential worker, such as a police officer, nurse, doctor, military personnel, or countless others whose work cannot take a break. These people often have little celebrations with their co-workers as they are working, but it is not the same and their essential work can interrupt the celebrations. Plus, as much as they may try to celebrate, they are away from their families.

                  One group that may get overlooked during the holidays is people living with mental illness. It is often hard for many of us to join in holiday celebrations. We may be struggling with the pain of our illnesses. We may be unable to get ourselves out of our homes and engage with others. I have written several posts about the difficulties people with mental illness might have during the holidays. I will add links to those posts at the end of this one, 

                  People who are unhoused are often alone during the holidays. Whatever the reason they are unhoused, there is likely pain in being alone during the holidays. Thankfully, generous people in many in cities across our nation who donate food and time to bring some joy to the lives of those who are unhoused or who are struggling with food insecurity. 

                  Some people are estranged from family. They might be alone for the holidays or might miss loved ones. Just like the others I have mentioned, these people deserve love and support during the holidays. There are many reasons a person might be estranged. Perhaps, they are not accepted by family because of who they are. There are many LGBTQ+ individuals who are not accepted by their family. The holidays can be difficult for them. This time of year can be difficult because they are isolated simply for being themselves. 

                  Many elderly, especially those living in care facilities, are alone for the holidays. Whether because they have outlived family and friends or they have been forgotten by their families, care facilities have many elderly individuals who spend the holidays alone. I was surprised when my mom told me how there are many people in her care facility who are not joining family for the holidays. I cannot imagine leaving my mom alone in her facility today or on any holiday. 

                  There are so many groups I could talk about here. I am not excluding any on purpose. I am just trying to keep this post at a readable length. 

                  To those who are alone during the holidays, I see you. I am sending you love. I realize that mere words are not enough. We need to find a way to help those who are alone find companionship and love during the holidays. Well, really, we need to be doing this year-round. Loneliness is not just an issue during the holidays. As a single, middle-aged woman, I understand loneliness. I understand those who are isolated because of their mental illness. I have been in those shoes. So, I want to reach out to those who are alone this holiday season. I am going to try to do my part to extend love and kindness. I started doing this by helping those I see collecting recyclables or asking for help on a street corner. It is a small act, but small acts build up. Small acts are contagious. If we each reach out to someone who is alone during the holidays, maybe we can start a change. 

                  I know there is so much more I can do. So, here are some ideas. I do not know which I will do, but I am going to make an effort.

                  Ways to help those who are alone during the holidays:

·      Drop off cookies or other treats at a hospital or police station.

·      Bring food to a fire station.

·      Donate to a shelter for those who are unhoused or abused.

·      Call or text someone you know who is alone for the holidays.

·      Offer a listening ear to someone with mental illness.

·      Send holiday cards to others.

·      Send holiday cards to residents in a care facility or psychiatric hospital. An organization that I really appreciate does this work year-round and accepts cards, Psych Ward Greeting Cardsdistributes cards at psychiatric facilities I have donated here in the past and need to get another donation out soon. 

·      Invite someone to a holiday gathering or to join you for a meal. Just going for a meal might be a good way to include someone who does not celebrate the holidays.

·      Volunteer at one of the many food distribution programs.

·      Check in with someone who struggles during the holidays.

·      Participate in an adopt a child or family program. Sometimes there are Angel Trees with needs of a family or child. 

·      Have a virtual gathering for family or friends who live faraway.

·      Visit a care facility. 

·      Keep the support ongoing. Aloneness does not end when the holidays are over.

 

I am sure there are many other things that can be done to help others who are alone

during the holidays. Being aware that not everyone has family and friends to spend the holidays with is the first step. Look around you. Think about family, friends, and colleagues. There is likely someone who could use a little love and support this holiday season. As you reach out to love and support, remember that others may celebrate different holidays than you. We are all different. Be respectful of that. Love and support do not belong to just one holiday. As a society we are filled with many differences. Those difference create beauty in our society. As we reach out to others let’s remain inclusive. There are so many people struggling this holiday season. Even a small gesture by each of us will make a difference for someone. Those differences add up.

 

                  Here are links to posts I have written about struggling during the holiday season and the help people may need:

 

                  Protecting My Mental Health During Thanksgiving

                  The Holidays When You Are Depressed

                  More on Depression During the Holidays

                  It's Okay Not to Be Okay During the Holidays

                  December Brings Increased Depression

                  Holiday Wishes

                  

Family Caregivers Month

             November is National Family Caregiver’s Month. I probably should have written about this earlier in the month because family caregiving has been important in my life during the last two years. So, before the month ends, I want to recognize the amazing people who care for ill, aging, and otherwise struggling family members.

              National Caregivers Month was first proclaimed by the president in 1997. The idea for this month goes back to 1986 when the president declared, Family Caregivers Week. Recognition of family caregivers is something that I do not think gets enough attention. So many family members step forward to care for loved ones.

              As I discuss the importance of family caregivers, I would like to share a model of this type of caregiving. My Aunt Holly stepped forward when I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer. Holly made sure I did not face my battle with cancer alone. She was at every appointment with me. She sat by my side during chemotherapy. She brought me into her home while I battled cancer. Holly sat by my side as I laid in bed sick from the chemo treatments. She supported me when my depression weighed heavy on me and made fighting cancer difficult. I could go on and on about all she did for me and continues to do. Aunt Holly is the epitome of a family caregiver. I would not have won my cancer battle without her.

              Family caregivers do so much. A basic definition of a family caregiver is someone who gives unpaid care and support for a family member who is aging, ill, or living with a disability or chronic illness. The caregiver takes on many areas of support including tending to the medical, emotional, and physical needs of their family member. This can include personal care assistance, such as bathing, toileting, eating, mobility, and medication. They provide and monitor medication and schedule medical appointments. The caregiver often takes their family member to appointments and coordinates medical care. They monitor symptoms and communicate with doctors and other medical personnel. A family caregiver provides emotional support to their loved one. Often, they help reduce aloneness and support mental and emotional health. The presence of a family member can provide conversation and a sense that the person is not alone in their health battle. The family caregiver also tends to household chores, such as preparing meals, doing laundry, shopping, and managing transportation. A family caregiver often provides financial and legal support. They may pay bills and/or handle legal documents. 

              The family caregiver often is an advocate for their family member. My Aunt Holly and my cousin, Sara, were involved in this way. Without them I would not have received the excellent medical care I received. They spoke for me when I couldn’t. They supported me when I had to speak up for myself. When a person is sick having a family member as an advocate is vital. I am grateful I had Holly and Sara. 

              A part of family caregiving that is particularly difficult involves end-of-life support and decisions. When I needed to create an advanced directive in case I could not make decisions for myself or my cancer battle was going to take my life, my cousin, Sara, held my hand through that process. She explained things and assisted me in creating the document. I now have an advanced directive in place. I am not sure I would have been able to do that on my own especially as the possibility of death loomed over me.

              Also, involved in end-of-life support is the coordination of palliative care and hospice. When these are necessary having family step in is important, but it can be very difficult on the family member. 

              Family caregivers have needs that are often overlooked because they are being selfless. Stress, burnout, and anxiety can arise, making it difficult for the family member to provide care. They may also experience guilt and think they are not doing enough. Another emotional issue for the family caregiver is grief. Often, they are watching their loved one struggle and face death. It is important that family caregivers receive mental and emotional health support. This can be found in conversations with other family members and friends, talking to a mental health provider, and/or participating in a caregiver’s support group. 

              Financial issues can arise. The family caregiver may need to take time off work and lose salary. The costs of caregiving are high. There are medical and practical expenses. Health insurance does not cover everything. 

              Family caregivers are vital when someone is ill. I have immense respect for family members who take on the challenge of caring for a loved one. My Aunt Holly took amazing care of me. I see her continue to care for others in need. She is currently assisting a friend who needs care. It amazes me how much my gives to others.  Another example of a caregiver I am grateful for is my brother, Tony. My mother can no longer care for herself. She has cancer and Alzheimer’s. Tony has stepped in to coordinate her care including all the medical and financial needs. I would not have known where to start, but Tony has taken on the challenge. I am grateful that he is doing all that he is doing. 

              So, as Family Caregivers Month comes to a close and Thanksgiving is in a few days, let’s take a moment to be grateful for all of the family members who care for a loved one. These family caregivers are indispensable. Without them so many people would suffer. I know I would not be here without the care Aunt Holly provided. I do want to acknowledge that my aunt and uncle, Chris and David, provided a break for Holly when it was needed. They stayed with me for a week during chemo and took me to appointments. Even my mom stepped in for a weekend. She also talked to me every day during my cancer battle. I try to be there for her now that she is battling debilitating illness. I take her to lunch every weekend and call her every day. 

              Family caregivers are amazing people and deserve more than just a month of recognition. If you know someone who is providing care for a family member, let them know they are doing a great job, provide them with a break, or just be a listening ear for them. Thank you to all the family caregivers who selflessly care for their loved ones. 

 

              

Radio Station Perpetuates Mental Illness Stigma

There is something bothering me. I frequently flip around to different radio stations while I am driving. One of the radio stations I listen to used treatments for depression as a joke. I find this offensive. They would not make jokes about a heart medication or chemotherapy. Why is it okay to joke about mental illness treatments? This radio station seems to think that ketamine and psilocybin are humorous. As someone who is treated with ketamine in the form of esketamine, I did not find their jokes funny. I need this treatment to battle depression. It is not a joke to me or to the many people who receive these treatments. It is not a joke to the mental health professionals who treat people with ketamine and psilocybin. 

I understand that this radio station pokes fun at a lot. Its computer-generated voice is intended to be funny. Sometimes it is funny. I even laugh at some of their jokes, but that is when the humor is not at someone’s expense. Unfortunately, making jokes about mental health treatments is not funny and it does hurt people. It perpetuates the stigma surrounding mental health. These jokes might stop a person who is suffering from mental illness from trying a treatment that could bring healing.

Living with mental illness is difficult enough without jokes being made at our expense. We need access to treatments that can provide healing. I guess the jokes may have seemed harmless to many. Just a little radio humor. Maybe there was no ill-intent, and it was a product of not understanding the harm that it caused. That does not excuse the airing of the jokes. A media company has a certain obligation to be aware of what they are airing. A simple internet search about ketamine and psilocybin would have provided information on how these treatments help people and are not a laughing matter.

I was not going to call out the radio station, but I have not received a response to the email I sent. First, I sent an email to the parent company. I received a response from them saying they did not have control over what the local stations say on the air. The message stated that my email would be forwarded to the Los Angeles station. I have not heard anything from the local station. So, I feel I am justified in saying which station made these jokes.  It is Jack FM, 93.1 in Southern California. 

We need more education about how mental illness impacts people. An effort needs to be made to learn more about treatments and to understand that these treatments are just as important as the treatments for physical illnesses. I have this platform. So, today’s post is my attempt to draw attention to the need for radio stations and other media outlets to be aware of how their words impact people.

I have written about esketamine on this blog before. If you are interested in learning more about this treatment, check out these posts, Gardening the Mind (Esketamine Treatment), which was a guest post written by psychiatric nurse practitioner, Stephanie Debnath, PMHNP, who treats patients with esketamine, and Fertilization and Purple Lights (Esketamine Treatment), which I wrote to share my experience with esketamine as a treatment for my depression. 

I do not know enough about psilocybin to write a post right now, but I will make an effort to learn and write a post in the near future.

I still hope to hear from the radio station. It is also my hope that the radio station will try to avoid these types of jokes. 

I hope this post makes people aware that mental illness is not a joke. I also hope it provides an appreciation for the fact that people with mental illness deserve understanding and empathy, not ridicule. 

 

A Heavy Load and a Smile

Because I carry it well doesn’t mean it’s not heavy. – Unknown

                  There are so many people who live with mental illness. It is a heavy load. It is difficult to carry. It weighs us down. Yet you may not notice when someone is carrying that heavy load. The reason for that is that we are used to carrying the load of mental illness and have learned to disguise it. 

                  Oftentimes I wear a smile on my face even though I am struggling with my depression or anxiety. It is not because I am having an easy time carrying it. Rather it is because I do not want anyone to know I am struggling. I do not want to be asked questions. I do not want to hear platitudes. Hiding mental illness is often easier than explaining what I am going through. As a result, I have learned to carry my load well. If you do not know me, you will think I am fine. You will not recognize that underneath the smile I am struggling. 

                  How do we learn to cover up our heavy load? It is not easy. It comes from years of practice. First, we recognize that others do not understand what we are living with daily. We ask ourselves, “how can we protect ourselves from the judgement of others?” The answer comes to us. We need to pretend we are okay. That is the answer we arrive at because we are in pain. We cannot let others know that we are struggling with depression or other mental illnesses. Instinctively, we know that most people will not understand. Our load is heavy, but we cannot risk ridicule or misguided attempts to cheer us up. 

                  Mental illness is heavy. It is difficult to rise out of the depths of the darkness that heavy load wraps around us. Still, many of us have learned how to disguise the illness that plagues us. We smile. We go to work or school. We run errands. All while feeling the pain of mental illness. I have done this most of my life. I could not risk letting my depression and anxiety be noticed at work. I could not explain what I was going through to family and friends. I knew colleagues, family, and friends who did not live with depression and anxiety would not understand. So, I learned to wear a fake smile. I learned to blame physical illnesses such as colds and the flu for the days I just could not  bear to be around others. 

On the surface I carry the heavy load of mental illness well. Many of us do. Underneath it is struggle. I wish that I did not need to hide my depression and anxiety. There are times when I share it. I can share with my mental health team. With them I am honest about my struggles. I know that they will understand. I know that they will not judge me. I am safe. I wish I could be safe in other areas of my life. I do feel safer now than I did a few years ago. I have learned that I can be honest with certain people and in certain environments. There is a sense of relief when I can allow my load to be seen. 

We all carry different loads. Some are heavier than other loads. That is why kindness, which I wrote about in a post last week, is so important. If we are kind, we make it easier for others to share their loads. Kindness makes a difference. When someone is kind, I am less likely to disguise my load. If I know I am going to be treated with kindness and understanding, I am more willing to be open about what I am going through. I think most of us who carry heavy loads are looking for understanding and kindness. We do not need others to know everything about what we are struggling with. We just need an effort to understand and be kind. The understanding we are looking for is just an acknowledgement that what we are going is difficult. It is a heavy load that not everyone experiences. It is enough for someone to just be kind. Maybe sit with us or offer a word of support. 

Even the person who looks like they are fine might be carrying a heavy load. The holiday season is a time when some people’s loads grow even heavier. I know for me my depression and anxiety usually increase during the holidays. So, as we enter the holiday season, remember that others may be carrying a heavy load. Be kind and understanding. Your kindness and understanding might just make a difference for someone. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Daily Kindness

If we all do one random act of kindness daily, we just might set the world in the right direction. – Martin Kornfeld

 

                  Kindness. Such a simple thing. Despite its simplicity kindness is often absent in our world. We all need kindness. One simple act of kindness has the power to make changes. When we are kind to someone, we lift them up. We make them feel better. When we are kind, we also give ourselves a boost. 

                  Kindness is defined as “the quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate.” It does not take much to be kind. Offering a word of appreciation or holding a door open are simple things we can do daily to be kind. Kindness is contagious. Let’s say someone holds a door open for you. It is likely that at the next door you will hold it open for someone else. Kindness is contagious. 

                  Why am I writing about kindness on a mental health blog? The answer is simple. Kindness has a positive effect on mental health. Kindness increases mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. When you perform acts of kindness these neurotransmitters affect feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. This leads to increased happiness and wellness. Kindness also releases oxytocin, which reduces stress and builds social connections. Being kind decreases cortisol levels, which leads to a reduction in stress. The endorphins released when we engage in acts of kindness create what can be referred to as a “helpers high”. This is a natural pain killer and mood elevator. So, there is science behind being kind.

                  Being kind also strengthens social connections. It builds positive relationships, which can help fight feelings of isolation and loneliness. These feelings are often a part of mental illnesses. Any boost in feelings of social connection can lift mood and maybe bring a smile to the face of someone living with mental illness. As mood is lifted and social connection is increased, a person is likely to become more resilient. The more resilient we are, the more able we are to deal with difficult times. A little kindness can go a long way in helping a person with mental illness. 

When we are being kind our perspective shifts. We move away from a focus on our own problems and worries to being aware of the needs and situations of others. When we focus on being kind our outlook on life improves. A simple act of kindness can provide us with a way to recognize the positives around us.

                  The effects of kindness also occur when someone is kind to us. We experience a boost in mood when someone does a kind act or says a kind word to us. We feel noticed. We recognize that we are being acknowledged. That gives us a boost in mood. Sometimes that one act of kindness can make a difference. We feel acknowledged and recognized.

                  Let’s think about someone with a mental illness, or really anyone, who is having a rough time. Maybe they are in a public space trying to take care of errands while they are feeling down. They are struggling to get things accomplished. You say good morning to them and maybe compliment something they are wearing. That may be the only positive interaction they have that day. It could give them a positive feeling about themselves. It may give them a sense of connection. It did not take much on your part to be kind in that instance. 

                  Being kind can be demonstrated in other ways. We can send someone a card or leave a note with words of kindness. Have you ever received a card? My guess is yes. How did it make you feel? Did it make you smile? Giving a card is a simple way of being a kind. Another way might be to give a small token of appreciation. A gift can let someone know they are cared about. It does not have to be expensive. You can even make it. A batch of homemade cookies can show someone you care about them. 

                  The mental health benefits of being kind are important. Being kind can lift a person’s mood, whether they are the one being kind or are the recipient of kindness. If we each did one act of kindness a day, we can spread kindness through the world. Kindness is contagious. If someone is kind to you, you are likely to be kind to someone else. I think our world needs more kindness right now. I will stay away from being political here, but our country sure could use more kindness right now. Perhaps if we each take the time to be kind, we can help our country be a kinder place to live. 

                  On a side note, as I was writing this post, I learned that Thursday was World Kindness Day. Maybe that is why I saw the above quote on social media. Thanks to BC Mental Health Awareness Project for sharing this quote. World Kindness Day is a perfect time to start being kind. My challenge to all of us is to go out and do something kind today. 

                  

The Implications of AI on Mental Health

                 I have been intrigued by some of the uses of AI (Artificial Intelligence). I became more intrigued when I heard that it can be used for mental health. Despite my intrigue, I was skeptical. What I found indicates that there are positives and negatives to the use of AI with mental health. It seems that even though there are some positive possibilities, AI cannot replace the human aspect of mental health support. Let’s take a look at some of the positives and negatives.

                  We first need to ensure that if AI is going to be used to support individuals with mental illness, the integration of AI needs to follow ethics, be transparent, and have human oversight. AI should not be used in isolation for mental health support. The people who use AI in this way, need to understand the risks and limitations of its use. Mental health safeguards need to be in place. Ethical guidelines need to be followed. In addition, data needs to be protected. While I have not researched the specifics, AI does collect data. So, using it for mental health would include allowing your information to be collected. 

                  One positive implication of AI on mental health is improved access. There are AI chatbots and digital therapists that can provide 24/7 emotional support and early intervention. This can be useful in areas where services are scarce or where receiving services is stigmatized. These AI tools can track moods, help a person practice CBT techniques, and allow a person to receive crisis resources quickly. While these sound great, I am hesitant to support the use of AI chatbots and digital therapists. I would rather a person call the 988 lifeline. I just do not think a computer or AI can replace a human. It certainly cannot replace a human psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. In a mental health emergency, I would rather rely on a human than a computer. 988 provides the human connection that AI cannot.

                  Another positive mental health implication that is listed for AI is the ability to detect signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal ideation early. AI can analyze speech, facial expressions, and social media activity. This analysis would allow it to detect warning signs early. Again, while this seems like a positive, I do not think I would want anyone relying on this. There are AI-assisted tools that mental health providers can utilize to identify at-risk individuals and to personalize treatment. These tools include Mindstrong, Ellipsis Health, and general screening/monitoring platforms that continuously monitor biomarkers, texts, and usage. Please note that I do not have specific information on these tools, and I am not endorsing them. I am simply noting that they exist. I would much rather these tools be used by a provider than having an individual with a mental illness rely on AI by themselves. 

                  There are noted negative implications of the use of AI for mental health. First, it can lead to an overreliance on AI companions, which would lead to a reduction in interaction. The lack of human interaction could potentially worsen symptoms. It might increase loneliness and increase social anxiety. If a person is relying on AI companions, such as AI “friends” or “therapists”, a sense of false intimacy may develop. There is no genuine empathy with AI, which can negatively impact a person with a mental illness. 

                  Another negative implication involves privacy and trust. Mental health data that is input into AI can be misused or leaked. An individual using an AI program for mental health does not know where their data is being stored or who has access to it. I would not want my personal mental health data out there in cyberspace being used in ways I did not intend for it to be used. 

                  A third negative implication is the possibility of misinterpretation of cultural or linguistic expressions of distress. This can lead to the neglect of some vulnerable groups. It can lead to misclassification of disorders and biased diagnoses. 

                  Finally, reliance on AI leads to a person being exposed to continuous curated content. In other words, too much exposure to social media platforms that utilize AI. There is a lot of research available about the overuse of social media. Too much social media or other internet content is not healthy for anyone. 

                  When used correctly by mental health professionals as a supportive tool AI can have positive implications for mental health. The key is that human connection and empathy need to remain at the core. I realize that not everyone has access to mental health care, or they might be in area where that service is stigmatized. As I mentioned earlier, I think 988 is a better alternative to AI. Yes, humans can make mistakes just like AI, but I would rather place my trust in a trained human than an AI program relying on algorithms. 

                  The use of AI is not going away. In fact, it will likely grow. I do believe that AI has a role in our society. I use it for research. However, when I use AI, I am aware that it is just a tool. I think in the realm of mental health, this tool is best utilized as a support used by mental health professionals as part of their treatment tools. Mental health is an area that is rooted in human connection. While AI can be helpful, I caution against allowing it to replace human support.