Artificial intelligence (AI), sometimes known as machine intelligence, broadly refers to the ability of computers to perform human-like feats of cognition , including learning, problem-solving, perception, decision-making , and speech and language. The introduction of ChatGPT in late 2022, however—and the rapid spread of other generative AI tools that soon followed—led to a sea change, not just in how the term “AI” is used but in the role AI plays in our lives.
When Artificial Intelligence Becomes Part of Your Identity
Living with artificial intelligence over time can lead to a fusion of identity and diagnosis. You may find yourself thinking "I am artificial intelligence" rather than "I have artificial intelligence." This identity fusion has significant consequences:
- Reduces motivation (why try if this is just who I am?)
- Increases shame and stigma internalization
- Makes recovery feel like losing part of yourself
- Limits how others see you (and how you see yourself)
Reclaiming a Multidimensional Identity
Your identity is vastly larger than artificial intelligence. A powerful exercise: complete this sentence 20 times with anything other than your struggles:
"I am someone who ___________"
Values, roles, relationships, interests, history, capabilities — all form your identity.
Artificial Intelligence as One Chapter, Not the Whole Story
Narrative therapy offers a powerful reframe: artificial intelligence is one story in a much larger life narrative. You are the author, not the character defined by struggle.
Externalizing the problem: Practice talking about "Artificial Intelligence that visits me" rather than "my Artificial Intelligence." This linguistic shift creates psychological distance and agency.
Building Identity Beyond Artificial Intelligence
- Invest in relationships that see your full self, not just your struggles
- Pursue interests unrelated to mental health — art, sport, learning, creativity
- Find meaning — purpose larger than symptom management provides identity anchor
- Contribute to others — giving to others builds positive identity components
- Celebrate growth — document how you've changed, overcome, adapted
The Strengths That Artificial Intelligence Builds
Many people find that navigating artificial intelligence develops genuine strengths: deep empathy, resilience, self-awareness, creativity, and a hard-won wisdom about what matters in life.