AI can support emotional well-being, but it cannot replace human connection.

Human connection requires presence, empathy, and compassion.

Emotional skills improve through intentional practice.

In the world of AI, it is becoming increasingly essential that we begin to pay more attention to the qualities that make us human: the compassion we bring to the workplace, the emotional intelligence we have as leaders to help influence change within the people around us, and our lived experiences that influence how we interact with others and solve problems. As AI becomes increasingly sophisticated, it becomes more important that we learn to better leverage these strengths.

To find out more, I interviewed Gigi Gupta, a former start-up CEO, executive coach, and meditation teacher who now works in AI. Her experience offers a unique perspective on what technology can replicate and what makes us human.

Where Can AI Help With Emotions?

When life challenges arise, we have seen a growing trend that many people may seek support from tools like chatbots. In fact, a recent study found that people may be willing to disclose more intimate information to chatbots, in part because they are accessible, convenient, anonymous, and perceived as nonjudgmental. AI can support emotional well-being through pattern recognition, identifying emotional themes, and recognizing signs that may suggest someone could benefit from additional support.

Where AI Reaches Its Limits

Although AI can be supportive, we know that it should not replace professional judgement, and should only be used as a tool, not as a substitute for evaluation or treatment. "You cannot outsource your presence," Gupta says. "You can outsource the analysis, the drafting, the modeling. You cannot outsource being the steady person in a room full of anxious people." The human presence is unique as it provides empathy, compassion, human judgment, and behavior cues that are vital for genuine connection. For instance, a chatbot can identify themes in prompts that demonstrate frustration and dissatisfaction at work. However,........

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