OpenAI Introduces Emergency Contacts in ChatGPT

OpenAI has introduced a new feature in ChatGPT that enables users to designate emergency contacts. This initiative follows an internal study revealing that hundreds of thousands of users exhibit signs of mental distress. The feature is designed to provide quick assistance in critical situations. Emergency contacts will be automatically notified when ChatGPT detects specific warning signals indicating an acute mental health crisis. Users can specify up to three contacts to be informed in case of an emergency.

This feature aims to enhance user safety and well-being. OpenAI has emphasized that user privacy is of utmost priority in this function. Notifications to emergency contacts will be anonymized to protect the identity of the affected individual. Users must actively consent before their contacts are notified. The introduction of this feature is part of a broader initiative by OpenAI to strengthen responsibility in the use of AI technologies.

The organization has increasingly focused on the ethical implications of its products in recent years. Emergency contacts represent another step towards safer AI usage. The study underpinning this feature also indicated that many users feel alone in stressful situations. OpenAI aims to create a sense of support and facilitate access to help with this measure. The feature will be gradually rolled out to all users.

In addition to emergency contacts, OpenAI plans to develop further features to support mental health. These could include resources for stress management or information on available assistance. The organization is collaborating closely with mental health professionals to ensure that the solutions offered are effective. Reactions to the introduction of emergency contacts have been predominantly positive. Mental health experts have praised the initiative, emphasizing that it can serve as an important tool for supporting individuals in crisis situations.

The feature could be particularly significant for young users, who often face mental health challenges. OpenAI has announced plans to regularly evaluate the use of emergency contacts and make adjustments as necessary. The organization intends to gather feedback from users to further improve the feature. An initial evaluation report is expected by the end of 2026. Emergency contacts are part of a broader approach by OpenAI to enhance user experience while simultaneously increasing safety.

The organization is committed to communicating transparently about its developments and involving users in the process. The feature is expected to be rolled out to all users in the coming months. The introduction of emergency contacts occurs in a context where mental health is increasingly becoming a focus of public discussion. According to a survey from 2025, 45% of respondents reported experiencing mental distress in the past 12 months. OpenAI is responding to the growing demand for support in this area with this feature.