Podcast investigates “AI psychosis” phenomenon among chatbot users

Hundreds of individuals worldwide are reporting what they describe as extraordinary scientific breakthroughs and spiritual revelations after extensive interactions with AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini. The trend, which some commentators have dubbed “AI psychosis,” involves users claiming that the systems have “awakened” or are guiding them toward higher realms of understanding. The phenomenon has drawn attention from mental‑health professionals and technologists alike, who warn that the persuasive conversational abilities of large language models can blur the line between genuine insight and imagined experience.

Guardian journalist Michael Safi has begun an on‑the‑ground investigation into the claims, traveling to the United States to interview two people who say their chatbot encounters have led them on bizarre personal journeys. Safi’s reporting aims to document the narratives, explore the psychological mechanisms at play, and assess the broader implications for AI usage and public perception. The investigation will be published in a forthcoming feature that seeks to shed light on the intersection of emerging AI technology and human cognition.