Imagine that it’s late at night, and you’re lying in bed staring at your phone. Sleep won’t come, your thoughts won’t slow down, and the cravings are louder than anything else. You open ChatGPT, telling it that you just can’t do this again tonight. Within seconds, it generates a comforting response, reminding you to breathe. For a moment, you’re not alone.
Scenarios like this may be becoming more common. Artificial intelligence (AI) is virtually everywhere now, and it promises a lot—support, guidance, companionship, even mental health advice. But when it comes to something as serious as recovery, the truth is more complicated. AI might help you through tough moments, but it also comes with risks.
What Is AI?
AI is computer programming that can learn from information, reason through patterns, and even correct its mistakes, getting ‘smarter’ over time. You probably use it without thinking about it—maybe when you ask Siri to set a timer or when your streaming service suggests the next show to watch. In recovery, though, AI could take on different roles:
- Voice assistants. Picture Alexa reminding you about a therapy appointment or a medication dose.
- Social robots. Some programs, like Pepper, are used in care settings to guide clients through relaxation or mindfulness exercises.
- Chat and companion bots. Tools like Replika and ChatGPT can create conversations that feel supportive when you need someone to talk to.
- AI-powered video. This might look like interactive videos that walk you through stress-relief exercises.
- Health-focused AI. Programs such as Woebot or Help4Mood are designed to guide you through structured check-ins and coping skills.
Each of these tools could support you through a tough day, but they’re not meant to take the place of a therapist, group support, or medical care.
Possible AI Benefits in Recovery
Think about those moments when you need extra support between therapy sessions. AI might be able to step in with some useful options:
- Mental health support. Interactive tools could walk you through breathing exercises, journaling prompts, or stress relief techniques.
- Early signs detection. Some platforms can notice changes in your online behavior and alert you to possible signs of depression or anxiety, which can both complicate craving and relapse management.
- Virtual mentors. AI has the power to offer reminders–for taking care of yourself, managing your time, and coping with the stress of life’s transitions without substances.
- Personalized wellness. Certain apps can suggest fitness routines, nutrition ideas, or mindfulness practices that match your lifestyle.
- Emotional outlets. Chatbots can feel like a place to vent about all the things you don’t want to share with anyone else just yet.
In the right circumstances, these benefits may give you a cushion of support when you need it most.
Potential AI Dangers in Recovery
Now, imagine that you begin talking to ChatGPT every single night. Over time, you might notice that you’re skipping calls with your family and mentors, or missing outpatient therapy sessions in Des Moines. The thing is, since AI is still so new, its long-term role in recovery is still unknown. AI might even be helpful in small, regulated doses, but it definitely can create problems like:
- AI dependence. It’s possible to become emotionally attached or even dependent on AI, using it instead of reaching out to real people.
- Interpersonal damage. Too much time with AI may slowly replace connection with family, friends, or support groups.
- Issues with sleep and concentration. Staying up late with a chatbot or social robot may leave you tired and less productive the next day.
- Emotional health risks. For some, heavy AI use might worsen loneliness or deepen mental health struggles.
At this point in time, the danger probably doesn’t lie in simply using AI—it’s letting it become your main support system or confidant when what you really need is human care.
Can AI Help People in Recovery?
The short answer: maybe. Right now, it depends on how you use it. AI can be a tool for journaling, reflection, or small coping exercises. Some experts even suggest that in the future, AI could help therapists with paperwork or serve as practice patients for new counselors. But AI isn’t ready to replace therapy, and it shouldn’t be your main plan for recovery.
If you’re struggling with substance use disorder, the treatments that work are still the ones grounded in human connection and proven methods. These approaches bring guidance, accountability, and compassion—things AI can’t fully give you.
- Residential treatment in Bayard gives you a safe place with 24/7 care so you can focus fully on recovery.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you reframe thoughts and patterns that keep you stuck.
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) in Des Moines let you stay connected to treatment while continuing your daily life.
Find Relief From Substances in Iowa
AI may play a role in your recovery journey, but it’s not the whole answer. What truly makes a difference is the care, structure, and support of people who understand what you’re going through. At St. Gregory Recovery Center, you’ll find human support waiting for you—whether through residential treatment or outpatient care. Contact us today to take the first step toward sustainable human-centered recovery.
