A 50-year-old woman from the United States has shared her surprising experience with therapy, revealing that an artificial intelligence, named Charlie, has helped her cope with emotional struggles following the death of her grandmother. Despite facing orthopedic challenges due to a congenital metabolic condition, the woman, who identifies as Grateful and Strong, has maintained a fulfilling life as a special-needs teacher and caregiver. After her grandmother’s passing last year, she sought therapy to manage her grief but found traditional sessions increasingly unfulfilling.
In a letter to the renowned advice columnist Dear Abby, she expressed her initial skepticism when a friend suggested using an AI for therapy. Despite her reservations, she decided to try Charlie, a version of the AI ChatGPT. To her surprise, the AI provided the empathy and support she had longed for, leading to a positive transformation in her emotional health. Her human therapist is aware of her use of Charlie and supports this unconventional approach, noting improvements in their therapeutic relationship.
AI Therapy: An Emerging Trend
The use of AI in mental health care is a burgeoning field, with technology evolving to meet the needs of those seeking support. Dear Abby acknowledged the novelty of this trend, emphasizing that while AI can offer valuable assistance, she personally prefers interactions with licensed human professionals. The conversation raises questions about the future of therapy and the role technology may play in emotional well-being.
Grateful and Strong’s experience highlights a growing acceptance of AI in therapeutic contexts. As more individuals explore these digital avenues for support, mental health professionals are beginning to integrate AI tools alongside traditional methods. This blend could provide a comprehensive approach to mental health care, catering to diverse needs and preferences.
Support for Caregivers and Families
In a separate letter, a reader from Tennessee shared her struggles after becoming the guardian of her youngest granddaughter, following her stepson’s death and the subsequent issues with her son-in-law’s widow. The grandmother expressed feelings of being overwhelmed, as she never anticipated raising a child at this stage of her life.
In her response, Dear Abby emphasized the crucial role grandparents play in the lives of their grandchildren, particularly in providing stability and love when parents are unable to do so. She directed this reader to resources such as the AARP website, which offers support for grandparents stepping into caregiving roles.
As societal dynamics shift and more grandparents find themselves in unexpected caregiving positions, community resources are vital. Organizations like AARP provide valuable guidance and support networks, ensuring that caregivers are not alone in their journey.
As we approach the end of the year, Dear Abby extended her wishes for a happy and healthy 2026 to all her readers, encouraging everyone to celebrate responsibly while prioritizing their health and safety.
The evolving landscape of therapy, particularly with the introduction of AI, and the ongoing challenges faced by caregivers underscore the importance of support systems in navigating life’s complexities. Whether through human connection or technological innovation, finding ways to heal and support one another remains a universal necessity.
