Health · Medical Research · 3 hrs ago
Few teens surveyed used AI for mental health support, and many wanted more help
A survey of 24,132 students in England found that 662 had used general-purpose AI chatbots for mental health support in the previous year.
Of users who rated their experience, more than half found it helpful, while about one in eight found it unhelpful.
Nearly two-thirds of users who answered a separate question said they wanted additional mental health support during the previous year.
That measure reflects a perceived need for more help; it does not show that AI support caused or failed to address that need.
Most users had also received other support, and 46.1% had used formal services during the year.
The survey focused mainly on students in Oxfordshire and Liverpool, so its results may not represent all adolescents in England.
Researchers say more study is needed to assess benefits and risks, including whether these tools are safe and suitable for young people.
A survey of 24,132 students in England found that 2.7% had used general-purpose AI for mental health support in the past year.
Among AI users who rated their experience, 55.9% found it helpful.
Nearly two-thirds of AI users who answered a separate question said they wanted additional mental health support.
Most AI users had also accessed other forms of support.
The researchers cautioned that the survey’s school selection and concentration in Oxfordshire and Liverpool mean its findings may not represent all adolescents in England.
- Who
- Researchers analyzed 24,132 students in England. Of these, 662 reported using AI for mental health support.
- What
- The study examined adolescents’ use of general-purpose AI for mental health support and their experiences and other support needs.
- When
- The survey was administered between February and May 2025 and asked about AI use during the previous year. The study was published on October 28, 2026.
- Where
- Secondary schools and further education colleges in England, mainly in Oxfordshire and Liverpool.
- Why
- The researchers examined who used AI for mental health support and what other support users accessed or wanted.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The OxWell Student Survey was administered during school hours.
News-Medical reported the study’s findings.
- Survey participants
- 24,132 students
- AI users
- 662 students, or 2.7%
- Found AI helpful
- 55.9% of users who rated their experience
- Wanted additional support
- 63.2% of users who answered the separate question
- Received support elsewhere
- 92.1% of AI users