Exploring Students' Perceptions and Usage of Artificial Intelligence in Supporting Mental Health: A Preliminary Study...

Artificial intelligence (AI) is widely used in mental health care for screening, monitoring, and intervention. Notably, most studies of AI in mental health have been performed in Western contexts, with limited evidence from the Arab Gulf region, where cultural factors such as stigma, privacy, and help-seeking norms may influence acceptance.

Investigating university students' perceptions of AI in mental health support, including awareness, trust, readiness, and preferences in a Gulf context.

A cross-sectional survey was administered to 220 university students in Qatar. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and one-way ANOVA to explore associations and group differences.

Students showed low-to-moderate levels of awareness and trust in AI-based mental health tools. The majority of participants showed that they were prepared to employ AI for stress management, but they do not prefer to replace face-to-face therapy, suggesting a preference for complementary use. A significant association was found between readiness and expectations (p < 0.00001), which means ambivalence toward AI effectiveness. No significant differences were observed across gender or academic level (p > 0.05). Key concerns included loss of human interaction, overreliance on technology, and diagnostic accuracy, while perceived benefits included cost reduction and 24/7 accessibility.

Students exhibit cautious adoption of AI in mental health services. Acceptance is influenced by trust, privacy issues, and apparent compassion. AI is optimally situated as a supplementary instrument within ethically regulated, culturally attuned hybrid care frameworks that maintain the fundamental importance of human connection.