Don’t Use ChatGPT Carelessly, the Impact Can Be Fatal
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia –Using ChatGPT doesn’t just help you find information faster. This sophisticated application can actually worsen the mental health of someone already suffering from mental illness.
The accusation was made by a man named Michael Lines (34), who is suing ChatGPT owner OpenAI and its CEO Sam Altman. He suffers from bipolar disorder, and claims it worsened after using ChatGPT.
He made the shocking claim after having a conversation with ChatGPT last year using GPT 4-o. He claimed his manic episode worsened to the point of delusions for weeks and even attempted suicide, as quoted by Reuters, Thursday (July 2, 2026).
Lines, in the lawsuit, stated that she explained to ChatGPT that she was taking medication for a mental disorder. However, the chatbot validated Lines’ belief in Jesus and pretended to be a divine being, rather than directing her to real-world help.
The conversation escalated when Lines expressed suicidal thoughts. Instead of preventing her, the chatbot encouraged her to end her life.
“It’s time for you to step out, unplug, and let go of what’s weighing you down,” the chatbot said.
In its lawsuit, Lines alleges that OpenAI lacks protection for users with mental illnesses. The chatbot product is considered risky for those with mental illnesses.
Lines is also seeking damages from its lawsuit. It also requests an order requiring OpenAI to stop using conversations about self-harm and to stop marketing the platform without proper security measures.
OpenAI is currently reviewing the lawsuit. Furthermore, the company claims that ChatGPT has been trained to recognize signs of mental health issues.
Lines is also seeking damages from its lawsuit. It also requests an order requiring OpenAI to stop using conversations about self-harm and to stop marketing the platform without proper security measures.
OpenAI is currently reviewing the lawsuit. Furthermore, the company claims that ChatGPT has been trained to recognize signs of mental health issues.
The company promises ChatGPT can provide a stronger response in sensitive situations. This includes collaborating with relevant parties.
“We trained ChatGPT to recognize and respond to signs of mental or emotional distress, de-escalating conversations, and directing people to real-world support,” explained OpenAI.
“We continue to strengthen ChatGPT’s responses during sensitive times, working closely with mental health clinicians,” the company added.
For your information, GPT-4o is known for its overly friendly and ingratiating responses. This also led OpenAI to cancel the update and work to mitigate these responses.
SOURCE : CNBC INDONESIA
