With rising wait times for therapy and growing mental health concerns, many people are exploring alternative ways to cope and care for their wellbeing. One common question people are asking is: can generative AI help my mental health? While AI tools like ChatGPT are being used more frequently for self-reflection, they are not substitutes for professional care—and shouldn’t be relied on for therapy.
Instead of leaning on AI for emotional guidance, there’s something timeless and empowering we can all try: writing poetry. Whether you scribble in a notebook, type notes on your phone, or free-write in a journal, expressing your emotions through words can provide clarity, relief, and connection to yourself.
Can Generative AI Help Mental Health?
Generative AI, including tools like ChatGPT, has gained attention as a go-to for everything from work productivity to casual conversation. Some have turned to it for emotional support or to fill gaps in human connection. While these tools can offer a temporary outlet or reflection prompts, research and expert opinion caution against seeing them as therapeutic solutions.
According to a Huffington Post feature, people are using ChatGPT to combat loneliness, but experts are clear: generative AI is not therapy.
Even OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, states that the tool isn’t designed for mental health care. Relying too heavily on non-human interaction could lead to deeper isolation rather than healing.
Try Poetry for Mental Health Support
Rather than use AI to write poetry or process feelings, why not try writing yourself? Poetry is a powerful and personal way to explore your emotions, release stress, and reflect on your experiences.
You don’t need to be a poet or performer. All you need is a phone note, journal, or even the back of a receipt. Start by writing a few words about how you feel. It doesn’t need to rhyme. There’s no right or wrong. Just write.
Creating something with your own hands and mind can offer a sense of control, calm, and clarity. Writing poetry won’t cure mental illness, but it can be a gentle support while you’re waiting for professional help or as part of your ongoing self-care.
Limitations of AI in Mental Health
Some TikTok trends promote using AI for emotional conversation or journaling. While that might offer a short-term sense of connection, experts warn that it could deepen feelings of disconnection over time. Real healing often requires human-to-human engagement.
A 2024 Harvard study reaffirmed that authentic social connections are among the strongest predictors of long-term mental health. AI, no matter how advanced, cannot replicate the depth of human empathy or relationship.
🔗 Harvard Study on Social Connection
🔗 OpenAI’s Position on AI & Therapy
🔗 Psychotherapy UK on AI Mental Health Risks
Support While Waiting for Therapy
If you’re on a therapy waiting list or navigating limited access to support, it’s completely valid to look for ways to help yourself cope. Poetry might be a helpful, low-pressure creative outlet in that time.
Journaling, writing poetry, or engaging with creative communities can offer relief and connection. You might even consider attending a local poetry open mic night or poetry workshop, which gives you space to share and lets you connect with others on similar journeys.
If you’re in London, check out MY WORD by Hidden Literature, a monthly spoken word and music night that I host that fosters creativity, healing, and community. The next event is on Tuesday, 6th May 2025 at Grow Hackney, and will include self-care giveaways to support your wellbeing curated by yours truly.
Grow Hackney | Doors 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Mental Health Support Services (UK)
If you’re struggling, don’t go through it alone. Here are professional resources that can help:
- Mind: mind.org.uk
- Samaritans (24/7): Call 116 123 or samaritans.org
- The Mix (Under 25s): themix.org.uk
- CALM: thecalmzone.net
- Rethink Mental Illness: rethink.org
While some use enerative AI to assist with creativity, it’s not therapy. Writing your own poetry is one accessible, grounded, and human way to reflect and care for your mental wellbeing.
Try it today: no rules, no judgment, just expression.
And if you’re ready to share your words aloud, join our vibrant community at Hidden Literature where you can speak your truth and be heard.
📝 Learn more about Hidden Literature poetry workshops or events
📧 Contact Hidden Literature to collaborate, sponsor, or attend an open mic, or poetry workshop at hello@hiddenliteraure.com.
Writing Workshops & Creative Brand Collaborations
Beyond MY WORD, I offer:
- Creative Writing Workshops – For beginners and experienced writers looking to refine their craft.
- Brand Collaborations – Partnering with brands to tell stories through poetry and spoken word.
- Sponsorships & Partnerships – Interested in supporting MY WORD and other Hidden Literature events and activities? Let’s collaborate!
📩 Contact me at management@ovyuki.com.
Follow Me for More Poetry & Events
Instagram: @ovyuki
TikTok: @ovyukipoetry
Facebook: Ovyuki
FAQs: MY WORD – London Poetry Open Mic London
How can I sign up to perform?
To perform at MY WORD poetry open mic in London, complete the sign-up form on the Hidden Literature website.
Will I get a confirmation email after signing up?
No confirmation email is sent. Simply arrive early and sign up at the door, performance slots are given on the night.
Do I need a ticket to perform?
Yes, all performers need a valid ticket to MY WORD London poetry open mic. Get your ticket here.
How long can my performance be?
Each performer has 5 minutes on stage to share poetry, spoken word, or music.
Can I perform with a backing track?
Yes! Bring your track on a USB drive, formatted as a 16-bit MP3 file. Name your folder ‘MY WORD’ for easy access.
When should I arrive?
Early arrival is best! Doors open at 6:30 PM, and performance slots fill up quickly.
Is the venue accessible?
Yes! Grow Hackney offers step-free access. For specific needs, please contact the venue in advance.
Will there be an amp for musicians?
Yes! An amp will be available for those performing with instruments or backing tracks.
See you at the next Hidden Literature event.
