Reimagining Mental Health Support: The Role of AI Chatbots in Bridging Gaps and Raising Ethical Questions

ABSTRACT Background The growing prevalence of psychological distress worldwide has drawn attention to the limitations of conventional mental health care systems, particularly in terms of accessibility, affordability and social stigma. Artificial intelligence (AI)–driven chatbots are emerging as digital tools capable of extending mental health support beyond traditional clinical environments. Methods This review examines existing literature on AI‐powered mental health chatbots, focusing on systems that utilise natural language processing and established psychological frameworks such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness‐based approaches. Results AI‐driven chatbots facilitate emotional expression, provide round‐the‐clock availability and enable anonymous interactions, making them especially useful for individuals who are reluctant or unable to seek conventional therapy. Despite these advantages, concerns remain regarding limitations in empathy, data privacy, contextual awareness and clinical accountability. Conclusion AI‐powered mental health chatbots hold significant potential to enhance access to mental health support; however, their meaningful and responsible integration into mental health care requires interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical design practices and careful alignment with human‐centred care to ensure safe, inclusive and trustworthy mental health ecosystems.