Young Danes turn to ChatGPT for emotional support when life gets tough

A new report from the Danish research institute VIVE reveals that many young adults aged 18–33 use ChatGPT as a confidant during difficult times, such as relationship conflicts or academic stress, DR reports.

Silje Pedersen, 24, from Holstebro, says she often turns to the AI chatbot when overthinking or struggling with fatigue from work and studies. “I have great friends to talk to, but if I’m lying awake at night, I can’t always reach them,” she explains. “The chatbot reassured me that it’s okay to feel this way.”

Sara Dahl Eriksen, 30, uses ChatGPT to process social anxieties, such as regretting things said to friends. “It helps me reflect and see things from both sides,” she says. “There, I’m not judged. It gives me the courage to later apologise if I’ve said something hurtful.”

While both women still rely on friends, they appreciate the chatbot’s neutrality. “It doesn’t have feelings, so I can speak freely without being evaluated,” Eriksen notes.

However, Kim Mathiasen, a psychology lecturer at Aarhus University and key contributor to the VIVE report, warns of risks. “Some use it for deep, long-term issues, which could replace professional therapy for those who need it,” he says. “That’s dangerous.”

Mathiasen acknowledges potential benefits, such as gaining new perspectives, but stresses that AI cannot replace human dialogue or therapeutic support.