4 ms·
> I understand that line of thought, but feel differently. Maybe this could be worded more clearly I think changing the name and general "stated goal" (AI powe
by ShamelessC 3y ago
> I understand that line of thought, but feel differently. Maybe this could be worded more clearly
I think changing the name and general "stated goal" (AI powered CBT) would go a long way toward reducing confusion and improving outcomes/expectations. Cognitive-behavioral journaling might be a step closer to what you're actually doing and a step away from having handed someone in a very fragile state the tools to worsen that state (whether that is your goal or not).
In particular I'm reminded that people like Blake Lemoyne exist, who struggle far more than I or the typical HN'er when it comes to understanding that these LLM's are indeed very much _not_ alive, thinking, sentient, emotional, whatever. Someone who is experiencing delusional thinking already may actually be advised to go nowhere near an LLM, in much the same way we now know that social media can actively harm one's mental health.
Mostly I think people can and will use tools like this because it's their right to. I just think the "pitch" (I know you aren't monetizing) is strange and risky.
To your point about those who can't afford therapy - I don't see how that justifies participation with an experimental tool simply because it is cheaper. Even if you were a qualified health professional (there are many trying to make these type of apps), you really do need to go through the red tape that is government oversight and consensus within the field of psychiatry. This will take years.
- marjipan200 3y agoNoted. I can update the README to emphasize that it is a journaling tool. edit - done!
- ShamelessC 3y agoThanks!
- mewpmewp2 3y agoOn the other hand if a tool like this can help, it would be bad not to use it. I have been developing my own life assistant using GPT-4 and I use it interactively and have found the therapeutic effect of it absolutely beyond amazing helping me get through self doubt and making decisions in life without regrets. I also do therapy and I think it is actually a lot more powerful than a therapist. It can understand technical challenges and problems I face much better than a therapist can who can mostly only give me generic advice, but to an LLM I can discuss daily down to most intricate details about my problems. I am so glad something like that exists now. I know nothing else that has been so effective in combatting overthinking and unnecessary self doubt. And I have usually been disappointed and frustrated with real therapy.