Sycophancy and Extended Engagement with Publicly Accessible Generative AI: Aligning Deployment with Mental Health Needs

Abstract Purpose of Review Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a routine source of health information, emotional support, and companionship. As its use expands, the key public health question is not only whether these tools can support care, but whether their deployment is aligned with the mental health needs of the community. In this commentary, we argue that general-purpose AI systems pose distinct psychosocial risks, especially for young people and those experiencing loneliness or psychological distress. Recent Findings Emerging evidence suggests that sustained chatbot use may be associated with loneliness, reduced socialisation, emotional dependence, and problematic use, while sycophantic model behaviour may undermine users' capacity for self-correction and sustain a feedback loop of engagement. Current AI policy frameworks address governance and safety, but do not yet provide a coordinated response to these mental health risks. Summary Realising the benefits of AI without preventable community-level harm will require independent longitudinal research, psychosocial safety benchmarking, transparent post-deployment monitoring, and safety by design principles.