JAMA Netw Open

Daily AI use tied to higher depressive symptoms

January 22, 2026

A survey of 20,847 U.S. adults found that 10.3% used generative AI daily, and greater use was associated with modest but measurable increases in depressive symptoms. Adults using AI at least daily had 30% higher odds of reporting moderate or greater depression, with the strongest associations seen among younger users and those using AI for personal tasks. Similar patterns emerged for anxiety and irritability.

Clinical takeaway: Discuss AI use patterns with patients, particularly younger adults, as part of broader screening for mood symptoms and digital behavior.

Source:

Perlis RH, et al. (2026, January 21). JAMA Netw Open. Generative AI Use and Depressive Symptoms Among US Adults. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41563755/