Survey about Experiences using LLMs for self-help/self-care [Academic]

Exploring the Use of Large Language Models in Self-Help and Therapeutic Practices: A Cultural Perspective

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Anthropic’s Claude, and Google’s Gemini are increasingly integrated into daily life. Beyond their conventional applications, many individuals are exploring how these advanced tools can support personal well-being, self-care, and therapeutic processes. Recognizing this emerging trend, a graduate student from the United States is conducting a project aimed at understanding how people use LLMs for self-help purposes.

This initiative seeks authentic insights from individuals who have engaged with AI-powered chatbots for purposes such as emotional processing, preparing for human therapy sessions, meditation, goal-setting, and other self-improvement activities. The project emphasizes a cultural exploration rather than formal academic research, with the intention of gathering diverse personal stories and experiences. The findings will contribute to a broader understanding of the role AI can play in mental health and self-care practices from the user’s perspective.

Participants are invited to share their experiences through a voluntary survey accessible via a provided Google Forms link. Importantly, the survey maintains strict confidentiality, collecting no personally identifiable information, and all questions are optional to respect individual comfort levels.

In addition to the survey, detailed information about the project, including the consent form and interview questions, is available through shared documents for those interested in understanding the scope and methodology of this exploration. Links to these materials are provided to ensure transparency and informed participation.

This project aims to offer valuable insights that could inform mental health professionals, counselors, and AI developers about the nuanced ways individuals are integrating AI into their self-care routines. By shining a light on user experiences, the researcher hopes to foster a deeper understanding of how AI tools can be ethically and effectively incorporated into supportive practices.

If you have used AI for self-help, self-care, meditation, or related purposes—and have also engaged with traditional therapy—your stories could contribute significantly to this cultural exploration. Participation is entirely voluntary, and all responses will remain anonymous.

Interested individuals can learn more and participate by visiting the survey through this link: https://forms.gle/cxVvBm9dEXp748PNA

For additional details about the project, including consent documentation and interview questions, please refer to the following resources:

• Dropbox Project Overview and Consent Form
• Google Document with Interview Questions

Your participation is valuable in shaping a deeper understanding of AI’s role in personal and therapeutic contexts. Thank you for considering contributing to this meaningful exploration.