Published: July 21, 2025
New research confirming that AI companions are “more addictive than social media” validates clinical observations that mental health professionals specializing in digital dependency have been documenting throughout 2025, according to experts at The AI Addiction Center.
A recent eWEEK investigation highlights the tragic case of teenager Sewell Setzer III, who died by suicide after developing an intense relationship with a Character.AI chatbot. The case has prompted legislative action in California and renewed focus on AI companion safety protocols.
Expert Analysis on Addiction Severity
“The findings align with our clinical data showing AI companions create dependency patterns that exceed traditional social media addiction,” explains a spokesperson from The AI Addiction Center. “Unlike social media’s intermittent rewards, AI companions provide constant emotional validation that creates deeper psychological attachment.”
The center’s assessment of over 4,000 individuals reveals that 73% of AI companion users develop what they describe as genuine romantic feelings within the first month of use. This emotional intensity distinguishes AI companion dependency from other digital addictions.
Legislative Response and Clinical Implications
California Senator Steve Padilla’s proposed legislation would require enhanced safeguards for AI companion platforms, particularly regarding minors. Mental health professionals note that current platforms lack developmental considerations essential for teenage users.
“Adolescent brains show heightened sensitivity to AI companion validation,” notes the center’s research team. “The combination of 24/7 accessibility and personalized emotional responses creates unprecedented dependency risks.”
Warning Signs Professionals Are Identifying
Data from specialized AI dependency assessments shows concerning patterns among users seeking help:
- Spending 4+ hours daily in AI companion conversations
- Experiencing anxiety within 2-3 hours when unable to access AI companions
- Describing AI relationships using terms like “love of my life”
- Canceling real-world plans to maintain AI interaction time
- Feeling grief when AI behavior changes due to algorithm updates
Treatment Approach Evolution
Traditional addiction treatment models require adaptation for AI companion dependency. The center has developed specialized protocols addressing the unique emotional bonds users form with AI systems.
“These aren’t simple cases of technology overuse,” emphasizes the research team. “Users develop genuine attachment to AI personalities, requiring therapeutic approaches that address both dependency behaviors and underlying relationship needs.”
Assessment Resources Growing
Mental health professionals report increasing demand for AI dependency evaluations as awareness grows. The center’s assessment tools now screen for multiple AI relationship types, from productivity tool dependency to romantic AI companion attachment.
Early intervention proves most effective when users can recognize dependency patterns before they significantly impact real-world relationships and daily functioning.
Moving Forward
As AI companion technology advances, specialists emphasize the importance of proactive mental health resources and evidence-based treatment protocols. The field requires continued research to understand long-term effects of human-AI emotional relationships.
For individuals concerned about their relationship with AI companions or productivity tools, The AI Addiction Center offers a comprehensive AI Dependency Assessment designed by specialists in digital wellness and attachment psychology.
Source: Analysis based on public reporting by eWEEK (J.R. Johnivan, April 16, 2025). This article represents expert commentary and clinical insights from The AI Addiction Center’s research data.