I have recently been thinking a lot about how much AI is becoming part of our everyday lives, from writing code for websites to facial recognition to aid the police. Its uses are evolving all the time.

A recent article showed how people who use AI to complete everyday tasks at work are actually losing their ability to think. It gives an immediate dopamine boost as it solves problems faster than our natural brains can and makes us feel good that we have “completed” a task.

I recently brought a personal relationship problem to AI. I needed help figuring out how to approach someone about a difficult topic. AI came up with some amazing suggestions, and I went back and forth with it. I even started drafting a text to send to my friend. Then something stopped me — it felt all wrong. I asked AI whether this conversation would be better in person rather than over text. Do you want to know what it said? Yes.

A computer advocated for human connection.

You will be pleased to know that I then had this conversation in person. It went well, we came to an agreement, and everything was resolved. But since then, I have been very mindful of how easy it would be to turn to AI with all my problems instead of going to friends, family, or colleagues. Yes, it might give me a solution, but what else would I be missing out on? Collaboration, empathy, and building connection.

AI is even being used to support people with mental health issues, although not very successfully. As Dr Lisa Morrison Coulthard reminds us, ‘It’s important to understand that therapy isn’t about giving advice, it’s about offering a safe space where you feel listened to.’ At Kintsugi Hope, we believe the same principle applies to everyday connection: noticing, listening, and being present with the people around us.

I find it interesting, and perhaps worrying, that some people would rather speak to a robot than a friend or family member about what they are struggling with. What are they searching for? Perhaps no judgement, no opinions, or someone who will agree unconditionally.

If we hope to be good friends, we cannot always agree with others or dull our own thoughts like AI can. But we can listen with empathy and create a safe space where feelings are allowed.

Our wellbeing groups are designed to do exactly that. If you are a group leader, you will already be aware of how safe spaces can give people the confidence to speak about things they may have been holding back, to form new friendships, and to realise they are not alone in their struggles.

If you are already running a group, we want to thank you. Your dedication to creating safe, welcoming spaces makes a real difference to the people in your community.

Here is some recent feedback from our groups:

“The moment a colleague from another faith prayed out loud to God for help. It was grace and beauty summed up in a simple, childlike prayer.”

“My wellbeing group showed me the way to love myself and to be fully me.”

“Talking to others has shown me I’m not on my own, and the support has been amazing.”

If you are interested in providing a safe, friendly space where people can find human connection and empathy, get in touch with us at Kintsugi Hope or join a free online information session to hear what Kintsugi Hope Wellbeing Groups could look like in your community or church.

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