Mental health is a very important aspect of life, and the society at large, but a recent survey has shed light on the current state of mental health in adolescents and young adults. The survey of RAND was published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. The survey finds that 1 in 5 adolescents and young people is using an AI chatbot for mental health.The organization also did a similar survey back in 2025, but then about 13% of respondents admitted to using a chatbot for advice; that number has jumped up to 19% this year. The 63% of them confessed that they did not tell anyone about taking therapy from a chatbot.Ryan McBain, a senior policy researcher at RAND and the lead author of the study, said, “It’s a sad number, because you’d hope that young people would have the sorts of supportive relationships that they would feel comfortable and empowered reaching out to those around them.”McBain and his team asked people aged between 12 and 21 years about their use of AI chatbots, including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, or Character.AI, for mental health advice. They also asked whether the advice from the chatbots was helpful, and the majority of participants felt that the suggestions were useful. Also Read: Study Finds Healthy Lifestyle Reduces Cardiovascular Risk In Childhood Cancer SurvivorsHabits To Boost Mental HealthQuality sleep is essential not just for physical health but also for emotional stability. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and limiting caffeine intake in the evenings can promote better rest and overall well-being.Reducing social media usage is another effective strategy. Constant exposure to curated glimpses of other people’s lives can lead to unhealthy comparisons and feelings of inadequacy, increasing anxiety and depression.Human connection plays a vital role in mental well-being. Strong relationships provide emotional support, reduce loneliness, and add meaning to life.Regular physical activity offers significant mental health benefits. Exercise does not have to be intense; enjoyable activities such as walking, dancing, yoga, or even stretching can positively impact mental well-being.Also Read: Space Grown Stem Cells: How Are Expedition 74 Astronauts Helping To Fight Cancer?Diet also plays a crucial role in mental health. Nutrient-rich foods, such as berries, bananas, beans, whole grains, and fatty fish, contain mood-boosting properties. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and cognitive difficulties. Knowing when to take a step back is equally essential. Some days may feel overwhelming, making even the simplest tasks seem daunting. Practicing self-compassion can prevent feelings of guilt and frustration from accumulating.Rest is critical for mental restoration. Engaging in mindfulness practices or setting aside quiet time can create a sense of calm amid daily responsibilities.Spending time outdoors, even briefly, can also uplift mental well-being. Stepping outside for a few minutes, taking a short walk, or simply opening a window can provide a refreshing mental boost.