An overview of the applied use of chatbots for substance use disorder: Past, present and future

AimThe purpose of this paper was to critically evaluate the use of chatbots as an eHealth resource for substance use disorder. It considers their past, present and future use, including the progression of the new wave of generative chatbots.FindingsThis paper finds chatbots for substance use disorder to be an underutilised resource, noting that there are few solutions and that these have limitations. It identifies that, along with limitations with general chatbot design, there are also serious ethical concerns given the vulnerabilities of the target population.DiscussionHow a collaborative design can address some of the limitations is discussed, as well as the restrictions this could pose to leveraging the latest technological advances. The ethical concerns presented in the applied use of both existing and prospective chatbots are explored, and how there is a need to safeguard users in matters of mental health support.