Mental Health Charity are warning of a "Loneliness Pandemic" in Ireland, with people striking up AI romantic relationships.
New research has revealed that almost 10% of adults in Ireland have had a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot in the last year.
According to Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, this is a reflection of the growing loneliness pandemic in Ireland. The survey was commissioned by broadband and telecoms provider Pure Telecom.
Housing pressures, such as adults living with their parents and feeling stunted if they cannot progress their relationship to co-living with partners, or adults embarrassed to tell potential romantic partners that they are still living with their parents. Cost-of-living pressures include the high cost of going for dinner in restaurants, which may make dating less affordable.
The research found that a further 12% of adults would not rule out such a relationship in the future. "These figures are concerning because they point to a very real and growing loneliness crisis in Ireland," Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said.
Turn2Me said human interaction is vital to counteract loneliness and stated these findings are a stark indicator of the deepening social isolation many people are facing in Ireland.
Turn2Me have said this research highlights a loneliness pandemic in Ireland. Nearly 1 in 10 adults have formed romantic bonds with AI chatbots, which they say suggests a significant number of people are seeking emotional connection outside human relationships.
According to the mental health charity, the research showed a worrying normalisation of AI romance. 12% said they were open to the idea in the future, and that AI-based romantic connections are becoming increasingly socially acceptable, reflecting a shift in how people seek companionship.
With the increased reliance that society has on technology for emotional fulfilment, there has been a notable decline in in-person socialising and traditional dating.
Basically, connection is a part of human nature, and a lack of connection can lead to potential mental health implications. Turn2Me stated long-term dependency on non-human companionship can exacerbate feelings of isolation and hinder the development of healthy, reciprocal relationships that have depth and emotional richness vital for our well-being.
Factors such as post-pandemic social anxiety, housing pressures and cost of living pressures may be pushing people towards easily accessible, non-judgmental AI partners.
Turn2Me stated that adult children living with their parents is common due to the housing crisis, and that avoiding dating due to embarrassment over this inconvenience is counter-productive, because many people can only afford buying a property with a romantic partner. The charity encouraged people to consider less expensive dating habits, including meeting in cafes, going for walks, or going to free museums. Turn2Me emphasised that AI romantic relationships are “completely insufficient” for our emotional wellbeing and can lead to further isolation over time, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said, "While AI chatbots may provide temporary comfort, they cannot replace the depth, nuance and mutual support of human relationships. We urge anyone feeling isolated to reach out for support, whether that’s through friends, family, or services like Turn2Me, because loneliness is not something you have to face alone. Humans are a social species; we are tribal in nature. Numerous studies show that loneliness can lead to significant health issues, while being sociable and having a good social network can improve our wellbeing, health, and quality of life."
The findings serve as a reminder that while technology can enhance our lives, it can also deepen existing emotional gaps if it replaces meaningful human connection.
Turn2Me is encouraging people who are feeling lonely to sign up for a local volunteering opportunity, a sports club, a community group, a book club, a writing group, a drama group, or doing an upskilling study course. There are many free or low-cost third-level courses available on Spingboardcourses.ie
