Back to Articles
How To Use AI Without Turning Your Brain Off

Mamamia

READ

Details

Date Published
3 Apr 2026
Priority Score
2
Australian
Yes
Created
3 Apr 2026, 08:00 pm

Description

Where do you stand on AI? Are you all in, a little nervous, or still figuring it out? Maybe you’re somewhere in the middle - curious, cautious, and ready to see what it really means for us. In this episode of But Are You Happy , hosts Ashani Dante and Dr. Anastasia Hronis go past the headlines to explore the psychology of AI. They look at how these tools aren’t just changing what we do - they’re changing how we think, solve problems, and even seek emotional connection. You’ll also learn: Why leaning on chatbots might be weakening your problem-solving skills How reflecting more and embracing messy drafts can protect your creativity Why AI can make us feel so “seen” How AI voices, not just text, can trigger the brain’s bonding chemicals Watch the podcast on YouTube  here . If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 . Both services are available 24/7 for free, confidential mental health support.  GET IN TOUCH Want to get in touch with us? DM @butareyouhappypod on Instagram or send us a voice memo . Our hosts are ready to hear your dilemmas—think of it as free therapy! Listen to more Mamamia podcasts here . Did you know some of our shows are now in video on the Apple Podcast app? Make sure your phone is up to date and check it out here! CREDITS: Hosts: Ashani Dante & Dr Anastasia Hronis Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown Audio Producer: Jacob Round Mamamia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which we have recorded this podcast.

Summary

This discussion examines the psychological impacts of human-AI interaction, specifically how reliance on generative AI tools affects critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities. The authors explore the risks of cognitive atrophy and the emotional manipulation potential of AI voices that trigger bonding chemicals in the human brain. While focused on individual psychological wellbeing rather than existential risk, it highlights the societal challenges of maintaining human agency as AI systems become more anthropomorphic. The content is situated in an Australian context, providing a localized perspective on AI's integration into daily life and mental health.

Body

1 hour ago 31 min How To Use AI Without Turning Your Brain Off But Are You Happy? Where do you stand on AI? Are you all in, a little nervous, or still figuring it out? Maybe you’re somewhere in the middle - curious, cautious, and ready to see what it really means for us. In this episode of But Are You Happy, hosts Ashani Dante and Dr. Anastasia Hronis go past the headlines to explore the psychology of AI. They look at how these tools aren’t just changing what we do - they’re changing how we think, solve problems, and even seek emotional connection. You’ll also learn: Why leaning on chatbots might be weakening your problem-solving skills How reflecting more and embracing messy drafts can protect your creativity Why AI can make us feel so “seen” How AI voices, not just text, can trigger the brain’s bonding chemicals Watch the podcast on YouTube here. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Both services are available 24/7 for free, confidential mental health support.  GET IN TOUCH Want to get in touch with us? DM @butareyouhappypod on Instagram or send us a voice memo. Our hosts are ready to hear your dilemmas—think of it as free therapy! Listen to more Mamamia podcasts here. Did you know some of our shows are now in video on the Apple Podcast app? Make sure your phone is up to date and check it out here! CREDITS: Hosts: Ashani Dante & Dr Anastasia Hronis Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown Audio Producer: Jacob Round Mamamia acknowledges the traditional owners of the land on which we have recorded this podcast.