Oluwatobi Adu 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Global experts are warning of growing risks linked to artificial intelligence in mental health, calling for urgent safeguards as adoption accelerates.
The warning comes in a report supported by the World Health Organization following an international workshop involving researchers, clinicians, and policymakers.
Experts caution that AI tools are increasingly used during emotionally vulnerable moments despite limited clinical validation.
“As AI interacts with people in vulnerable situations, safety and accountability must be prioritised,” says Alain Labrique.
WHO AI lead Sameer Pujari adds that rapid adoption is outpacing understanding of its mental health impacts.
“We are at a critical juncture,” he says.
Participants call for integrating mental health considerations into AI development and impact assessments.
They also recommend co-designing tools with experts and users, especially young people, to ensure safety and relevance.
The WHO is advancing plans for a global consortium to guide responsible AI use in healthcare.
Experts stress that coordinated global action is essential to balance innovation with patient safety.
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