Nearly 10% of Irish Adults Form Romantic Bonds with AI Chatbots as Loneliness Crisis Deepens

Almost one in ten adults in Ireland has pursued a romantic relationship with an artificial intelligence chatbot over the past year, according to new research that mental health charity Turn2Me says exposes a growing loneliness pandemic across the country.

The survey, commissioned by broadband and telecoms provider Pure Telecom, revealed that 10% of Irish adults have engaged in AI romance within the last 12 months, whilst a further 12% would consider such relationships in the future. Turn2Me warned that these figures represent a troubling shift away from human connection towards digital alternatives.

The charity identified five key indicators that the research highlights Ireland's deepening loneliness crisis. The rise in AI intimacy shows significant numbers seeking emotional connection outside traditional human relationships. The growing normalisation of AI romance, with more than one in five adults either engaging in or open to such relationships, reflects changing attitudes towards companionship.

Digital displacement of human interaction is becoming increasingly apparent as people rely more on technology for emotional fulfilment rather than in-person socialising. Turn2Me warned of potential mental health implications, stating that long-term dependency on non-human companionship could worsen isolation and prevent the development of healthy, reciprocal relationships essential for wellbeing.

The findings also reflect wider social challenges facing Ireland. Post-pandemic social anxiety, housing pressures, and cost of living concerns may be pushing people towards easily accessible, non-judgmental AI partners. The charity noted that adults living with parents due to the housing crisis might feel embarrassed about dating, whilst restaurant prices make traditional dating less affordable for many.

Fiona O'Malley, CEO of Turn2Me:

"These figures are concerning because they point to a very real and growing loneliness crisis in Ireland. While AI chatbots may provide temporary comfort, they cannot replace the depth, nuance and mutual support of human relationships. We urge anyone feeling isolated to reach out for support, whether that's through friends, family, or services like Turn2Me, because loneliness is not something you have to face alone."

O'Malley emphasised that humans are inherently social beings, with numerous studies showing loneliness can lead to significant health issues whilst strong social networks improve wellbeing, health, and quality of life.

Turn2Me stressed that AI romantic relationships are "completely insufficient" for emotional wellbeing and can lead to further isolation over time. The charity encouraged those struggling with housing-related dating embarrassment to remember that many people face similar situations, noting that couples often need dual incomes to afford property in today's market.

For those concerned about dating costs, Turn2Me suggested alternatives to expensive restaurants: meeting in cafes, going for walks, or visiting free museums. The charity particularly highlighted opportunities in Cork, where coastal walks, city parks, and cultural venues offer countless free or low-cost dating options.

The charity urged lonely individuals to seek human connection through volunteering opportunities, sports clubs, community groups, book clubs, writing groups, drama societies, or upskilling courses. They noted that many free or low-cost third level courses are available through Springboardcourses.ie.

These findings serve as a stark reminder that whilst technology can enhance our lives, it risks deepening emotional gaps when it replaces meaningful human connection. As Ireland grapples with social isolation in the digital age, the message from mental health experts is clear: virtual relationships, however comforting, cannot substitute for genuine human interaction.