ChatGPT is getting break reminders and better mental health detection to encourage healthier interactions – here’s how they work

• ChatGPT is getting new well-being features
• Users will be encouraged to take breaks during long sessions
• OpenAI is consulting with health professionals

AI chatbots are now regularly being used for various types of emotional support – as therapists, for example, or as dating advisors – and OpenAI has announced new changes to its ChatGPT bot that should look after it users' health and well-being.

"To us, helping you thrive means being there when you're struggling, helping you stay in control of your time, and guiding – not deciding – when you face personal challenges," explains OpenAI in a new blog post.

Several new features are being rolled out to encourage healthier interactions, including "gentle reminders" during "long sessions" that will ask if you think it's time to take a break or you'd rather carry on chatting to the AI.