In a recent Forbes commentary, AI expert Lance Eliot argues that artificial intelligence in the mental health space has traditionally been framed as a tool to fix deficits — diagnosing conditions, spotting distress, or filling gaps where human care is limited. While these applications are valuable, Eliot suggests that this “AI for mental health” mindset is too narrow. Instead, he proposes reframing the goal toward building “mental wealth” — a more proactive, strengths-based approach that uses AI to enhance psychological well-being and human flourishing, not just remediate problems.
Eliot points out that much of current AI in mental health focuses on reactive support: chatbots that respond to crisis signals, models that detect depressive language on social platforms, or systems that triage risk. These tools can certainly save resources and extend reach, but they still operate within a pathology-centered view. By contrast, an AI-for-mental-wealth paradigm would emphasize tools that help people develop resilience, self-awareness, emotional regulation, and life skills before acute issues arise.
Under this broader vision, AI could act as a personal well-being partner rather than only a diagnostic proxy. For example, intelligent systems might offer personalized coaching, mood tracking with pattern insights, strength-based feedback loops, or tailored recommendations for activities that boost connection, creativity, and purpose. Instead of waiting for signs of deterioration, AI would help users cultivate ongoing mental balance and empowerment, much like a fitness coach supports physical health rather than just treating injury.
Eliot also underscores that achieving mental wealth with AI requires ethical design, privacy protections, and human oversight. To avoid misuse or unintended harm, systems must be transparent, culturally sensitive, and aligned with human values. Rather than supplanting human connection or professional care, these AI tools should augment them — helping individuals build a richer, more resilient psychological life while preserving autonomy and dignity. The shift from mental health to mental wealth reframes the narrative from surviving symptoms to thriving in life.
