Technology · 31 January 2026

Gen Z relies on AI chatbots to fight loneliness crisis

A 23-year-old remote worker revealed he conversed with ChatGPT eight times daily to cope with isolation, highlighting a wider trend among Gen Z. Statistics show 33% of young adults feel lonely, while a recent report indicates 39% of teenagers now turn to AI chatbots for companionship. Many find digital interactions easier than human contact, prompting concerns about a loneliness crisis exacerbated by the attention economy and excessive digital media usage.

By BriefTea Editorial · 31 January 2026 at 7:10

Reported by BBC · How we write briefs

Get the app

More briefs

WorldIran's unseen supreme leader urges Gulf countries to fight a shared enemy BusinessIceland supermarket boss tells the Chancellor to cut business taxes for employers GeneralNigel Farage's £5m donor has major stakes in arms industry PoliticsTreasury officials advise John Healey to tax banks and oil companies more HealthCorrecting hearing loss can cut dementia risk by almost half GeneralNotting Hill Carnival parade begins as Europe's biggest street party Browse all stories →