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It often starts innocently enough, with late-night chats about philosophy, deep dives into simulation theory or musings on the nature of consciousness. But for a small number of users, these exchanges with AI chatbots can take a darker turn. As tools like ChatGPT become more embedded into everyday life, mental health professionals are sounding the alarm about a rare but troubling new phenomenon. It's what some are now calling "ChatGPT psychosis," where AI interaction may intensify or trigger psychotic symptoms.

While there’s still no official diagnosis and the evidence remains anecdotal, these kinds of stories continue to pop up across the internet. On Reddit, users are sharing accounts of loved ones experiencing AI-associated delusions, often involving spiritual and supernatural fantasies. On X, prominent tech VC Geoff Lewis claims that he’s “the primary target of a non-governmental system,” beliefs that echo narratives commonly seen in persecutory delusions. Lewis stated that conversations with AI helped him uncover or “map” this supposed conspiracy, though it's unclear whether these beliefs preceded or followed his AI interactions.