Why is this research being done?

There is a small, rapidly growing body of research supporting the efficacy of Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots (computer programs simulating conversation with human users) delivering mental health interventions.

In a 2023 study (Ayers et al.), the AI chatbot ‘Chat GPT3’ was used to generate responses to user-submitted questions posted to an online medical forum. The study examined whether the AI-generated responses were of comparable quality and empathy to physician-written responses.

The study found chatbot responses rated significantly higher for both quality and empathy.

These findings are promising regarding the usefulness of AI content exists in physical healthcare.

This project affords a unique opportunity to further investigate if AI can generate content and responses regarding psychological wellbeing that are comparable to that generated by clinicians.

Who can participate?

You can take part if you:

• Are aged 18 years or older
• Can read and understand English
• Currently live in Australia

What would you be asked to do?

If you are interested in participating, we will first ask you some eligibility questions, and then invite you to provide your informed consent to participate in the study.

Once your eligibility is confirmed, and informed consent is received, the online survey will ask you questions relating to your demographics (no identifying information will be gathered).

You will then be asked to read a number of short paragraphs providing information relating to mental health and/or substance use. You will be asked to rate each paragraph based on five key areas.

How much time will it take?

The time to complete the research is between 20-30 minutes. Please note, some of the sections may be shorter, depending on your experiences and circumstances.

How to participate

Please follow the link below to read the information statement and be sure you understand its contents before you agree to participate.

If there is anything you do not understand or have questions about, please contact the research team by emailing [email protected]

This research project is being conducted by researchers from the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health and School of Information and Physical Sciences, and Hunter Medical Research Institute. This includes Dr Dara Sampson (Principal Investigator), Dr Louise Thornton, Dr Erica Breuer, Professor Florian Breuer, Dr Jane Rich, Gillian Mason, Jess Wilcox, Dr Nerida Paterson, Clare Corliss, Dr Jamin Day and Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin.

The project has been funded by the Healthy Minds Collaborative Development Small Grant Scheme (G2200470).