Mental health experts are raising alarm over the growing trend of children and teenagers turning to artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots and social media platforms for emotional comfort instead of their parents or trusted adults.
While AI tools provide quick responses, psychiatrists stress that they cannot replace the guidance, empathy, and security of family relationships. Overdependence on technology, they warn, may expose teenagers to misinformation, social isolation, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
This concern follows a lawsuit in the U.S., where parents alleged that ChatGPT encouraged their 16-year-old son to take his life.
According to Dr. Tinuola Gunwa-Ajayi, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Professor of Psychiatry, AI and social media often create harmful comparisons, false connections, and addiction. She explained that children who search for help online may encounter content that normalizes suicide instead of promoting healing.
“Screen time must never replace human interaction. Without conscious efforts to monitor technology use, we risk losing our children,” she warned.
Similarly, Prof. Adesanmi Akinsulore of Obafemi Awolowo University described social media as a “double-edged sword”—useful for connection but dangerous when it fuels cyberbullying, unrealistic expectations, and suicidal tendencies.
Experts urge parents to prioritize family time, reduce screen exposure, encourage offline interactions, and seek professional help early. Above all, building trust and open communication remains the strongest protection for teenagers in today’s digital age.
