A 16-year-old was suicidal. He confided in ChatGPT.
The chatbot deterred him from seeking help at key moments.
From The Times
September 9, 2025

More people are turning to general-purpose chatbots for emotional support. At first, a 16-year-old from California used ChatGPT for his schoolwork.

A mounted photograph leans against an outside corner of a house.

Mark Abramson for The New York Times

But then he started discussing plans to end his life.

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this message because you signed up for updates from The New York Times.

To stop receiving From The Times, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

LiveIntent LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018