According to OpenAI data, more than a million weekly users discuss suicide and self-harm with ChatGPT. Because suicide prevention experts stress that human connection is vital, OpenAI introduced an optional feature called Trusted Contact to connect struggling users with someone they trust during emotional crises. The tool allows adult users to provide contact information for someone the chatbot can notify if it detects serious safety risks. OpenAI spokesperson Gaby Raila noted that the company has seen good adoption, though specific figures were not provided. When tested by new users, however, the app did not automatically mention or prompt sign-ups for Trusted Contact during onboarding. Users must manually navigate to the app settings to configure it ahead of time. Raila explained that the feature does not currently work on ChatGPT Voice, and that the bot may only suggest setting it up if a texting user shows signs of severe distress. Suicide prevention experts acknowledge potential benefits to the feature but voice certain reservations. Holly Wilcox of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health suggested it would be ideal to offer it to all users before an emergency arises. Psychologist Ursula Whiteside noted that while the setup steps are clear, a person experiencing extreme distress might find them difficult to follow. Meanwhile, psychologist Jennifer Lockman from the University of Alabama pointed out that individuals seriously contemplating suicide often feel like a burden to others and may struggle to utilize or respond to such tools without professional guidance. OpenAI stated it is continuing to refine when and how the feature is offered in collaboration with mental health researchers, alongside existing safeguards like crisis hotline reminders.
Source: npr.org
