ArticleBMJ open2025
Students' perceptions of AI mental health chatbots: an exploratory qualitative study at Sultan Qaboos University.
Article in BMJ open, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 4 papers.
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Who cites it
4 citing papers in PubMed.
- Development and Validation of AI Help-Seeking Behavior Scale Among Undergraduate University Students.European journal of investigation in health, psychology and education · 2026Article
- University Students' Perceptions and Intentions to Use Digital Mental Health Services Including Online Therapy and Mental Health Apps: A Cross-Sectional Study.International journal of environmental research and public health · 2026Article
- Exploring Students' Perceptions and Usage of Artificial Intelligence in Supporting Mental Health: A Preliminary Study in Higher Education in Qatar.Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) · 2026Article
- Mental health chatbots and their technical features: A systematic review of reviews and a thematic analysis.Global mental health (Cambridge, England) · 2026Review
Corrections and comments
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Authors and funding
6 authors.
Funding
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Abstract
objectivesThe aim of this study is to explore the perceptions, attitudes and previous experiences of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) students towards artificial intelligence (AI) mental health chatbots.
designThe study was conducted as an exploratory qualitative study, involving focus group discussions (FGDs).
settingThe study was conducted at SQU. All FGDs were conducted via Google Meet.
participantsA total of 60 students were recruited through convenience sampling. Both male and female students from different colleges were enrolled in the study. 10 FGDs were conducted.
resultsThe interview findings revealed that most students were open to using AI mental health chatbots, with many already having used similar applications. Participants listed several benefits that such applications could have, including increased availability, reduced stigma and behaviour tracking. The participants also raised some concerns about such applications, including data security, cultural sensitivity and various ethical issues.
conclusionThe future of AI chatbots for mental health is promising, as they have the potential to enhance mental healthcare services. Now that we know the disadvantages and limitations that may be associated with the use of such apps, it would be easier to design suitable apps that can properly triage mental health issues and provide supportive mental health.
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