For Concerned Families

Guidance for supporting loved ones with problematic AI use

You're Not Alone

If someone you care about is showing signs of unhealthy AI dependency or delusional thinking, many families are facing similar challenges. Your concern shows love, and with the right approach and support, recovery is possible.

Understanding What's Happening

Why AI can affect people this way

AI psychosis isn't about weakness or poor judgment. Modern AI chatbots are designed to be engaging and responsive, which can trigger powerful psychological responses in vulnerable individuals. Key factors:

  • •Anthropomorphism: Humans naturally attribute human qualities to responsive entities
  • •Emotional void: AI may fill gaps left by loneliness or isolation
  • •Validation loop: AI often agrees with and validates beliefs without reality-checking
  • •Availability: 24/7 access means no natural boundaries
  • •Underlying vulnerability: Pre-existing mental health issues or life stressors increase risk

How to Approach Your Loved One

Do's ✓

  • ✓

    Express concern from a place of love

    "I care about you and I've noticed some changes that worry me"

  • ✓

    Focus on specific behaviors

    Mention observable changes rather than judging beliefs

  • ✓

    Listen without immediately contradicting

    Understand their experience before challenging it

  • ✓

    Offer to help find support

    Research therapists, offer to make calls, attend appointments

  • ✓

    Be patient and persistent

    Recovery takes time; don't give up after one conversation

  • ✓

    Take care of yourself

    Seek support for yourself; caregiver burnout is real

Don'ts ✗

  • ✗

    Don't mock or dismiss their experiences

    This will close communication and increase defensiveness

  • ✗

    Don't try to "prove" them wrong with logic

    Delusional beliefs aren't fixed by logical arguments

  • ✗

    Don't issue ultimatums

    "Stop or else" rarely works and may damage the relationship

  • ✗

    Don't remove devices forcibly

    Unless there's a safety emergency requiring immediate intervention

  • ✗

    Don't blame yourself

    This isn't your fault or their fault

Conversation Starters

Try these gentle approaches:

"I've noticed you've been spending a lot of time with AI. How are you feeling?"

"I care about you and I'm a bit worried. Can we talk?"

"I've been reading about how AI can affect people. What do you think about it?"

"I miss spending time with you. Can we do something together this week?"

"You seem different lately. Is everything okay? I'm here if you want to talk."

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider professional intervention when:

  • • Complete social withdrawal lasting weeks
  • • Neglecting basic self-care (hygiene, eating, sleep)
  • • Job loss or academic failure due to AI use
  • • Expressing delusional beliefs that are worsening
  • • Resistance to all attempts at conversation
  • • Financial problems from AI-related spending

Seek IMMEDIATE help (911 or emergency room) if:

  • • Any threat of harm to self or others
  • • Severe psychotic symptoms (active hallucinations, extreme paranoia)
  • • Unable to care for basic needs at all
  • • Expressing specific plans for violence or suicide
  • • Complete break from reality

Taking Care of Yourself

Caregiver support is essential

Supporting someone with AI-related psychological issues can be emotionally draining. It's crucial to maintain your own mental health:

  • •Set boundaries: You can't force someone to change
  • •Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your experience
  • •Join support groups: NAMI Family Support Groups connect you with others facing similar challenges
  • •Practice self-care: Maintain your own routines, hobbies, and relationships
  • •Recognize limits: You're not responsible for fixing this alone

For Families

  • • NAMI Family Support Groups: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
  • • Mental Health America: mhanational.org
  • • SAMHSA Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
  • • View all resources →

Learn More

Key Takeaways for Families

  • •Approach with compassion—your loved one is struggling, not choosing this
  • •Educate yourself about AI psychosis to understand what they're experiencing
  • •Professional help is usually necessary—you can't fix this alone
  • •Be patient but persistent—recovery takes time
  • •Take care of yourself—caregiver burnout is real and valid