As Valentine’s Day approaches, research has prompted conversation about loneliness and the ways people look for connection during what can be a challenging time of year. It also serves as a reminder that meaningful connection is not limited to romantic relationships, and that spending time with friends, meeting as a group or planning something social can be just as valuable.
A national survey commissioned by Pure Telecom has found that one in ten people in Ireland reported having a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot in the past year. The research also shows that a further 12 per cent of Irish adults would not rule out forming such a relationship in the future.
Mental health charity Turn2Me said the findings highlight what it described as a growing loneliness issue in Ireland. The organisation said the fact that nearly one in ten adults have formed romantic bonds with AI chatbots suggests that many people are seeking emotional connection outside of traditional human relationships.
Turn2Me said AI based connections are becoming increasingly socially acceptable, reflecting a shift in how companionship is sought. It warned that a greater reliance on technology for emotional fulfilment may point to a decline in in person socialising and more traditional forms of dating.
The charity cautioned that long term dependency on non-human companionship can intensify feelings of isolation and may hinder the development of healthy, reciprocal relationships that offer emotional depth and mutual support, which are vital for overall wellbeing.
Turn2Me also highlighted wider social pressures, including post pandemic social anxiety, housing difficulties and the rising cost of living, as factors that may be pushing people towards easily accessible and non judgemental AI partners. The charity said people living with their parents can feel frustrated or embarrassed when they are unable to progress relationships to co living arrangements because of financial constraints.
It also noted that the rising cost of dating has made activities such as dining out less affordable. The charity encouraged people to consider lower cost ways of connecting, such as going for walks, meeting in cafes or visiting free museums.
Chief executive of Turn2Me, Fiona O’Malley, said AI chatbots may offer temporary comfort but cannot replace the depth, nuance and mutual support found in human relationships. She encouraged anyone feeling isolated to reach out for support, whether through friends, family or services such as Turn2Me.
She said humans are social by nature and that research consistently shows loneliness can lead to significant health issues, while maintaining strong social connections can improve wellbeing, health and quality of life. She added that while technology can enhance daily life, it can also deepen emotional gaps if it replaces meaningful human connection.
