As digital mental health tools expand globally, OpenAI has partnered with ThroughLine to integrate localized crisis helplines into ChatGPT and Sora. This addition provides users experiencing mental or emotional distress with quick, confidential access to trained counselors via phone, text, or online chat, complementing existing mental health resources without replacing professional care.

Key Points

• What the Feature Provides:

  • Immediate, confidential connection to trained crisis counselors for emotional or mental health distress.

  • Access via multiple channels, including phone, text, and online chat.

  • Available for users themselves or on behalf of someone else.

  • 24/7 availability and free to use, with no registration required.

  • Guidance from counselors includes listening, de-escalation, safety planning, and connection to local mental health resources.

  • In-product messages in ChatGPT and Sora help users reach support when content suggests possible distress.

• What the Feature Does Not Do:

  • Crisis lines are not a substitute for medical emergencies; users should contact emergency services if immediate care is needed.

  • Helplines do not provide long-term therapy, legal, financial, or housing advice.

  • OpenAI does not monitor conversations or participate in them, and crisis counselors cannot access OpenAI accounts.

  • The service is separate from OpenAI; users communicate directly with the crisis helpline.

This development is particularly important given the growing proportion of the global population turning to foundation models for mental health support, and the rising concern that generative AI could be used as a substitute for in-person care. By integrating direct access to trained human counselors, this feature helps ensure that people experiencing significant distress or suicidal ideation receive timely, professional support rather than relying solely on AI guidance.