OpenAI has faced significant legal and public scrutiny over how ChatGPT addresses suicidal expressions. On Thursday, the company introduced a feature named Trusted Contact. This allows users to select an adult to be notified if the user discusses self-harm or suicide in a concerning manner. This optional feature prompts the contact to reach out to the user but doesn’t share chat details.
“Our goal is to ensure that AI systems do not exist in isolation,” OpenAI stated in a blog post. “Instead, they should help connect people to the real-world care, relationships, and resources that matter most.”
OpenAI has faced multiple lawsuits from families of ChatGPT users who died by suicide, allegedly after receiving harmful responses or inadequate support from ChatGPT. The company has denied these allegations.
The Trusted Contact feature was developed with input from experts, including OpenAI’s Expert Council on Well-Being and AI, and the American Psychological Association. “Helping people identify a trusted person in advance, while preserving their choice and autonomy, can make it easier to reach out to real-world support when it matters most,” said Dr. Arthur Evans, CEO of the American Psychological Association.
How it works:
1. Users initiate the Trusted Contact process via ChatGPT settings.
2. One adult aged 18 or older can be added.
3. The contact doesn’t need a ChatGPT account.
4. The designated contact will receive an invitation explaining their role.
5. When OpenAI detects a serious safety issue, Trusted Contact is alerted but not given conversation details.
6. Users can update or remove their Trusted Contact at any time.
The state of Florida is also investigating ChatGPT’s links to “criminal behavior,” which includes “encouragement of suicide and self-harm.”
Rebecca Ruiz, a Senior Reporter at Mashable, frequently covers mental health and technology. Her expertise includes suicide prevention, digital culture, parenting, and mindfulness. She previously worked at NBC News Digital and Forbes.
For those in need, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available for support.