About The Study: In this nationally representative survey study of U.S. adolescents and young adults, a fifth reported using AI chatbots for mental health advice. AI chatbots are already embedded in many youths’ mental health information ecosystem, underscoring the need for parents and clinicians to proactively discuss chatbot use to promote safety, appropriate expectations, and linkages to evidence-based care.
Corresponding Author: To contact the corresponding author, Ryan K. McBain, PhD, MPH, email rmcbain@rand.org.
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(doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2026.2015)
Editor’s Note: Please see the article for additional information, including other authors, author contributions and affiliations, conflict of interest and financial disclosures, and funding and support.
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Journal
JAMA Pediatrics