In today’s digital age, it’s hardly surprising that our lives are intricately woven with technology. From smartphones to laptops, smart homes to artificial intelligence (AI), these innovations have brought about a remarkable shift in our lifestyle. OpenAI’s GPT-4 language model, colloquially known as ChatGPT, holds a special place among the pantheon of AI applications. Its users enjoy an interactive text-based AI experience, capable of composing prose, answering questions, and even aiding in creative writing. However, like anything consumed in excess, could it lead to an addictive pattern? Are we facing a rise in a condition that one may jokingly refer to as ChatGPT-dependency Disorder (CDD)?

Before delving deeper, it’s important to note that this terminology isn’t currently recognized by any professional body nor used in a clinical context. It is a hypothetical exploration of the possible risks associated with over-reliance on AI technology like ChatGPT.

Characteristics of the hypothetical ChatGPT-dependency Disorder

Let’s consider the following criteria that might hint at a possible CDD:

Preoccupation with ChatGPT (Criterion A): CDD could be characterized by excessive interaction with ChatGPT to the point where it significantly hinders daily activities. The individual may constantly harbor thoughts or urges about ChatGPT, even when not actively engaged.

Withdrawal symptoms (Criterion B): Someone with CDD might exhibit persistent, often unsuccessful, efforts to reduce or control the use of ChatGPT. They could experience restlessness or irritability when attempting to decrease or cease usage.

Persistence despite adverse consequences (Criterion C): A person continues to use ChatGPT, despite acknowledging a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the interaction with ChatGPT.

Tolerance (Criterion D): A significant hallmark of CDD could be the need for markedly increased time with ChatGPT to achieve the desired effect or a notably diminished effect with continued use of the same time with ChatGPT.

Exclusion of other mental disorders (Criterion E): The ChatGPT use is not better accounted for by any other mental disorder and does not occur exclusively during delirium.

Despite its many benefits, excessive dependency on AI, such as ChatGPT, can lead to physical and psychological issues, including but not limited to social isolation, decreased physical activity, and over-reliance on AI for decision-making.

For those who suspect they might be developing an unhealthy reliance on ChatGPT or similar AI technologies, here are a few helpful suggestions:

Establish tech-free zones: Create spaces where technology, including AI, is limited in your home. This could be during mealtimes or in certain rooms, such as bedrooms.

Time management: Set specific time limits for ChatGPT and strictly adhere to them. There are many apps available that can assist you in tracking your time spent on such applications.

Engage in physical activities: Regular physical exercise not only keeps you fit but also helps distract your mind, reducing the urge to interact with AI constantly.

Pursue hobbies: Encourage the pursuit of offline hobbies. Reading, painting, gardening, or playing a musical instrument can help break the cycle of dependency.

Socialize: Make an effort to interact regularly with your friends and family. Genuine human connection can often provide emotional fulfillment that AI cannot replicate.

Seek professional help: If your dependency escalates despite self-help measures, don’t hesitate to seek professional counseling. Therapists and counselors can provide tools and techniques to cope with potential technology overuse.

While we engage with and appreciate the leaps of innovation in AI, it is also vital to maintain a balanced approach toward its use. Like any tool, AI, including ChatGPT, is designed to aid us, not control us. We must remember that while AI may mimic human-like conversation, it’s not a substitute for real human interaction and connection.

Maintaining a balanced relationship with technology is crucial for our overall well-being. AI is here to enhance our lives, not to overshadow or replace our human relationships and activities. As we continue to advance in this digital innovation era, we are responsible for ensuring that these tools serve us in healthy, productive, and positive ways.

Harvey Castro is a physician, health care consultant, and serial entrepreneur with extensive experience in the health care industry. He can be reached on his website, harveycastromd.info, Twitter @HarveycastroMD, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. He is the author of Bing Copilot and Other LLM: Revolutionizing Healthcare With AI, Solving Infamous Cases with Artificial Intelligence, The AI-Driven Entrepreneur: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success with Artificial Intelligence Strategies and Insights, ChatGPT and Healthcare: The Key To The New Future of Medicine, ChatGPT and Healthcare: Unlocking The Potential Of Patient Empowerment, Revolutionize Your Health and Fitness with ChatGPT’s Modern Weight Loss Hacks, and Success Reinvention.