Can AI Support Employee Mental Wellbeing Without Replacing Human Connection

Can AI Improve Employee Mental Wellbeing?

Wellbeing programs are essential for maintaining a healthy and productive workforce. But as AI becomes more integrated into HR tasks, how will these programs evolve?

Recent research shows a shift in AI's role in personal and professional support. Earlier this year, a study published in Harvard Business Review revealed that AI's top use has moved from generating ideas to helping people organise their lives and find purpose.

AI Therapy: Accessibility and Acceptance

Many individuals have found AI-based therapy useful for managing grief or trauma. The key benefits are clear:

• Available 24/7
• Relatively low-cost or free
• Lack of human judgment

AI is increasingly supporting professional services such as therapy, medical advice, and even legal or tax guidance, making AI agents a common presence in corporate environments.

Human Connection Still Matters

Despite these advantages, human interaction remains crucial. Hugo Contente, Vice President of People and Talent at Torrens University, points out that AI can’t replicate the simple power of a human touch or presence. Managers can focus on building meaningful relationships rather than administrative tasks, which AI can assist with.

Emotional support requires empathy and understanding of personal circumstances—areas where AI falls short. Genuine human connection is still irreplaceable when discussing mental wellbeing.

Where AI Adds Value

AI’s non-judgmental nature removes barriers like embarrassment or fear, making it a helpful first step for employees seeking support. Younger generations often turn to AI tools like ChatGPT first, reflecting a shift in how people access information and assistance.

For HR professionals, this means AI can serve as a useful initial resource before human intervention, helping employees feel more comfortable addressing their mental health.

Challenges and Cautions

AI is not flawless. Errors, biases, and inaccurate information remain concerns, which is why managers need to stay alert and prepared to step in when AI falls short.

Non-verbal cues like body language and the warmth of human interaction are still beyond AI’s reach. This limits AI’s ability to fully replace human support in wellbeing conversations.

Striking the Right Balance

AI should be viewed as a tool to guide managers rather than replace them. Acting like a co-pilot, AI can help identify signs of disengagement or mental distress, allowing managers to provide timely and empathetic support.

Humans are wired for connection. Employees need to know there’s a real person on the other side willing to listen and respond. Upskilling managers to enhance this presence is vital.

Combining AI’s insights with genuine human interaction promises a balanced approach to supporting mental wellbeing in the workplace.

For HR leaders eager to understand how AI tools can support your role, explore practical AI training courses at Complete AI Training.