Generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools—are powerful tools with new products and features becoming increasingly available.  We are increasingly using AI for work, school, and personal use.

A recent study in JAMA Network Open looked at whether this impacted depression symptoms, and is one of the first large‑scale looks at this emerging issue (1).

What Was the Study? (1)

Researchers conducted a U.S. nationwide internet survey between April and May 2025, analyzing responses from adults across all 50 states (1)

  • 20,847 adults, ages 18 and older
  • Participants self‑reported:
    • Frequency of generative AI use
    • Use of social media
  • Depressive symptoms were measured using the PHQ‑9, a widely used clinical screening tool for depression
  • Data were analyzed in August 2025

The goal was to understand whether frequency of AI use was associated with higher levels of negative affect, independent of other factors.

What Were the Results? (1)

Generative AI use was common but varied widely:

  • 10.3% of U.S. adults reported using generative AI daily
  • 5.3% reported using AI multiple times per day
  • Daily users most commonly reported:
    • Work‑related use (48%)
    • Personal use (87%)
    • Smaller proportions used AI for school

When mental health outcomes were examined:

  • Daily or more frequent AI use was associated with higher depressive symptom scores; in this sample, it was mainly for personal use (not school or work)
  • Adults who used AI daily had approximately 30% greater odds of at least moderate depression
  • The association was strongest among younger adults, compared with older age groups

 

What are some caveats?

  • This was a cross-sectional study which shows a snapshot but cause and effect.
  • Although our results are consistent with personal AI use causing greater depressive symptoms, they are equally consistent with greater depressive symptoms precipitating greater AI use, or with neither of these.
  • The study did not account for ither confounding effects, such as preexisting psychiatric diagnoses.

What Does This Mean?

This study does not suggest that generative AI is inherently harmful. Instead, it raises important questions about how, why, and by whom these tools are being used.

Possible explanations for the observed association include:

  • People experiencing depression may be more likely to turn to AI tools
  • Heavy AI use could displace social interaction, sleep, or restorative activities
  • AI use may reflect broader patterns of screen time, isolation, or stress
  • Future research is needed to clarify mechanisms, directionality, and individual differences in how AI use relates to mental health (1)

What Does This Mean for Everyday Life (AI and mental health safety guidance)?

As with other digital tools, it matters how and why AI is used. Some practical considerations include:

 

By Ryan S Patel DO, FAPA
OSU‑CCS Psychiatrist

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Disclaimer: This article is intended to be informative only. It is advised that you check with your own physician/mental health provider before implementing any changes. With this article, the author is not rendering medical advice, nor diagnosing, prescribing, or treating any condition, or injury; and therefore claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or injury caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the material presented.

Reference

  1. Perlis RH, Gunning FM, Usla A, et al. Generative AI Use and Depressive Symptoms Among US Adults. JAMA Network Open. 2026;9(1):e2554820. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.54820
  2. Patel R. Mental Health For College Students Chapter 8. Technology, media, and mental health.