AI Chatbots Replace Helplines: Ahmedabad Students Self-Diagnose Exam Anxiety
In Ahmedabad, a concerning trend is emerging among students facing board exams, as many are turning to artificial intelligence chatbots for mental health advice instead of seeking professional help. This shift has led to a significant decline in distress calls to traditional helplines, raising alarms among psychiatrists and educators.
Case Study: A 17-Year-Old's Self-Diagnosis
Dr. Nehal Shah, a city-based psychiatrist, recently encountered a 17-year-old Class 12 science student who presented with symptoms like lack of sleep, appetite loss, and overall disinterest. The student confidently attributed these issues to exam-related anxiety, having self-diagnosed using a popular AI chatbot. Dr. Shah emphasized that while AI can provide general awareness, it cannot replace expert consultation, urging students to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Sharp Decline in Helpline Calls
Data from the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) reveals a dramatic 70% drop in calls to their exam helpline. Compared to approximately 3,700 calls last year, only around 1,000 calls have been fielded this year, even as exams are ongoing. The helpline, launched on February 12, typically sees a surge in activity during this period, but the trend suggests a shift in student behavior.
Nirav Thakkar, principal of AG High School and a member of the city's helpline core committee, reported an 80% reduction in calls across clusters. He noted that only 30-35 calls were received collectively until a recent Saturday. Thakkar attributed this decline to easier exam papers and reduced dependence on Class 12 marks for future opportunities, which may alleviate some stress.
Expert Insights on the Trend
Dr. Hansal Bhachech, another psychiatrist in Ahmedabad, observed that students now often arrive with self-diagnoses of anxiety or depression, thanks to AI. He cautioned against relying on internet-based medical advice, stressing the importance of expert intervention. Bhachech also pointed out that increased seats in professional courses like medicine and engineering, along with diverse career avenues, have reduced extreme stress over board exam outcomes, leading to fewer students opting to drop exams.
At Jeevan Aastha, a suicide prevention helpline, calls have decreased by over 30% compared to previous years, with 80-100 daily calls since February. Pravin Valera, the helpline mentor, mentioned that common concerns include memory lapses, mobile phone distractions, and parental expectations. Counselors encourage students to believe in themselves and view exams as not the end of the world.
TeleMANAS Helpline and Broader Implications
Dr. Deepti Bhatt, psychiatrist at the Government Hospital for Mental Health and coordinator for the TeleMANAS helpline, reported answering 30-40 calls related to board exams, noting a lower volume than last year. Students primarily seek help for anxiety and performance pressure, but the overall decrease in calls aligns with the broader trend.
Dr. Shah added that students now come with very specific queries, often based on AI searches. He explained that while AI offers discreet and instant solutions, human intervention is crucial for understanding underlying issues. Exams might just be a trigger for deeper problems that require professional resolution.
Conclusion: Balancing AI and Human Support
The rise of AI chatbots in Ahmedabad highlights a shift in how students manage exam-related stress, but experts unanimously agree that these tools should complement, not replace, professional mental health services. As technology evolves, it is essential to educate students on the limitations of AI and the value of expert guidance for holistic well-being during high-pressure periods like board exams.
