Future of ADHD Care: Evaluating the Efficacy of ChatGPT in Therapy Enhancement

Healthcare (Basel). 2024 Mar 19;12(6):683. doi: 10.3390/healthcare12060683.

Abstract

This study explores the integration of large language models (LLMs), like ChatGPT, to improve attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments. Utilizing the Delphi method for its systematic forecasting capabilities, we gathered a panel of child ADHD therapy experts. These experts interacted with our custom ChatGPT through a specialized interface, thus engaging in simulated therapy scenarios with behavioral prompts and commands. Using empirical tests and expert feedback, we aimed to rigorously evaluate ChatGPT's effectiveness in therapy settings to integrate AI into healthcare responsibly. We sought to ensure that AI contributes positively and ethically to therapy and patient care, thus filling a gap in ADHD treatment methods. Findings show ChatGPT's empathy, adaptability, and communication strengths, thereby highlighting its potential to significantly improve ADHD care. The study points to ChatGPT's capacity to transform therapy practices through personalized and responsive patient care. However, it also notes the need for enhancements in privacy, cultural sensitivity, and interpreting nonverbal cues for ChatGPT's effective healthcare integration. Our research advocates for merging technological innovation with a comprehensive understanding of patient needs and ethical considerations, thereby aiming to pioneer a new era of AI-assisted therapy. We emphasize the ongoing refinement of AI tools like ChatGPT to meet ADHD therapy and patient care requirements more effectively.

Keywords: ADHD; AI in mental health; AI-driven decision making; ChatGPT; LLMs; artificial intelligence; cognitive therapy; computational cognitive tools; customizable AI bots; occupationaltherapy innovation; personalized therapy sessions; robotic systems in therapy; sensory data integration.

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.