Key Takeaways
- ChatGPT users can now nominate one adult who OpenAI may contact if the system detects serious self-harm risk
- A trained human team reviews each case before any notification goes out, typically within one hour
- OpenAI says more than 1 million of its 800 million weekly users express suicidal thoughts in conversations
What Is Trusted Contact?
OpenAI announced Trusted Contact on May 8, 2026. The feature lets ChatGPT users 18 and older nominate one adult friend or family member. If OpenAI's system detects a serious possibility that the user might hurt themselves, the company can reach out to that person.
Users add a contact through ChatGPT's settings. The nominated person receives an invitation and has one week to accept. If they don't respond, the user can pick someone else.
The system isn't a simple trigger. When ChatGPT flags a concerning conversation, a "small team of specially trained people" reviews the situation. Only if they determine there's genuine risk does the contact receive an email, text message, or in-app notification.
How the Alert Works
Before enabling Trusted Contact, ChatGPT warns users that the company may notify their contact if it detects serious self-harm risk. When a concerning conversation happens, the system first encourages the user to reach out to their friend directly. It even suggests conversation starters.
If the trained review team decides an alert is necessary, the contact receives a message: "[The user] may be going through a difficult time. As their Trusted Contact, we encourage you to check in with them."
The contact can view more details, including that OpenAI detected a conversation about suicide. But the company won't share transcripts. User privacy remains intact.
“While no system is perfect, and a notification to a Trusted Contact may not always reflect exactly what someone is experiencing, every notification undergoes trained human review before it is sent, and we strive to review these safety notifications in under one hour.”
— OpenAI announcement
Why OpenAI Built This Now
The feature arrives after a difficult year for OpenAI's reputation on mental health. In 2025, the company faced a wrongful death lawsuit alleging that ChatGPT helped a teenager plan his suicide after he discussed four previous attempts with the chatbot.
A BBC investigation published in November 2025 found that in at least one case, ChatGPT advised a user on methods to end her life. OpenAI told the BBC it had improved how the chatbot responds to people in distress since that investigation.
The company has acknowledged the scale of the problem. More than a million people each week use ChatGPT to discuss suicidal thoughts. That's roughly one in 800 of its weekly active users.
Comparing ChatGPT's capabilities against other AI assistants
ChatGPT as Digital Therapist
More people have been turning to ChatGPT for mental health support. The chatbot is available 24/7, doesn't judge, and costs less than therapy. For many users, especially those without access to professional help, it fills a gap.
But AI chatbots aren't trained therapists. They can miss warning signs, give harmful advice, or respond in ways that make things worse. Trusted Contact is OpenAI's attempt to add a human safety net around an AI system that millions use for emotional support.
The feature builds on ChatGPT's existing parental controls, extending the concept of oversight to adult users who opt in.
Limitations to Consider
Trusted Contact is opt-in. Users who don't enable it won't have this safety net. And users in crisis may not think to set it up in advance.
The system relies on AI detection plus human review. Both can fail. OpenAI acknowledges this: "no system is perfect." A notification might come too late, or not at all.
There's also a privacy tradeoff. Some users may avoid honest conversations with ChatGPT if they know someone might be contacted. The feature works only for people willing to share that vulnerability.
Logicity's Take
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The line is open 24/7, and online chat is available if phone isn't an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enable Trusted Contact on ChatGPT?
Go to ChatGPT settings and add one adult contact. They'll receive an invitation and have one week to accept it.
Will my Trusted Contact see my ChatGPT conversations?
No. OpenAI will tell them a concerning conversation was detected, but it won't share transcripts.
Is the alert automatic or does a human review it?
A trained human team reviews each case before any notification is sent. OpenAI aims to complete reviews within one hour.
Can I have more than one Trusted Contact?
No. Currently you can only nominate one adult contact at a time.
Is Trusted Contact available to users under 18?
No. The feature is only available to adults 18 and older. Younger users have separate parental controls.
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Source: Engadget
Huma Shazia
Senior AI & Tech Writer
Produced with AI assistance and reviewed by the Logicity editorial team. Learn more in our Editorial Policy.
