Judgment in the Age of AI · Article 31
AI can respond at any hour and help organise feelings. A gentle tone may also make it seem deeply understanding. Yet it cannot see your whole situation, accept clinical responsibility or replace human relationships and professional care.
Place support on three levels
| Level | What AI may do | Boundary |
|---|---|---|
| Organise | Help name feelings, suggest journal questions or prepare a conversation | Do not treat the output as a diagnosis |
| Act | List low-risk steps such as sleep routines, a walk or contacting a friend | Seek professional help if distress persists or worsens |
| Crisis | Help locate local support | If you may harm yourself or someone else, contact local emergency services, a crisis service or a trusted nearby person immediately |
Do not remain only in the chat window when
- Symptoms persist and disrupt eating, sleep, study or work;
- AI is becoming a way to withdraw from every real relationship;
- Its response makes you more hopeless, agitated or reckless;
- There are thoughts of self-harm, harming others or being unable to stay safe.
AI may serve as a note or a rehearsal, not as your only relationship. Reliable support can understand context, notice change and take responsibility for action when necessary.
References
- WHO: Ethics and Governance of AI for Health
- UNESCO: Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
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