JED Study: Teens Using AI for Companionship Report Most Suicidal Thoughts

The Jed Foundation surveyed more than 5,500 middle and high school students across 21 U.S. schools between October 2025 and April 2026. The 12% who used AI for friendship or companionship showed the highest rates of anxiety, depression, loneliness and suicidal thoughts. Researchers stress the findings are correlational, not causal.

• Over 5,500 students from 21 U.S. schools were surveyed
• 12% used AI for friendship and companionship, with the worst outcomes
• 57% turned to AI when sad, stressed or lonely
• 28% sought AI advice on relationships or problem-solving