ChatGPT and other AI tools have become everyday companions for many of us—helping to write emails, summarise documents, and make sense of complex information. It’s no surprise that some people are beginning to wonder whether AI could also offer emotional support. After all, it’s always available, never judges, and can feel surprisingly human in its responses.

But this growing temptation to “talk to ChatGPT instead of talking to someone” is creating new ethical and emotional risks in workplaces, including libraries. AI can mimic empathy, but it doesn’t feel it. It can generate advice, but it doesn’t understand context or consequence. And it certainly doesn’t have the training, confidentiality, or duty of care that human wellbeing professionals provide.

In this live session, we’ll explore why AI is not a replacement for genuine human connection and professional support. We’ll look at:

The rise of AI as a “comfort tool” and why people are drawn to use it for wellbeing and emotional check-ins
The ethical, privacy, and safeguarding risks of using AI in place of professional help
How over-reliance on AI conversations can increase isolation rather than reduce it
The danger of normalising quick, automated responses to complex human experiences
The vital role of managers and information professionals in setting clear boundaries and guiding people towards real, trustworthy support

This is an honest, thought-provoking session for anyone interested in the intersection of wellbeing, technology, and trust. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to navigate the wellbeing–AI boundary and how to advocate for people-centred, kind, and ethical use of technology in the workplace.

Join a Live Empower Session