Artificial intelligence and wellness apps are increasingly being used by individuals seeking emotional support, but experts warn these tools are not a substitute for professional mental health care. A new health advisory from the American Psychological Association highlights that while many people turn to generative AI chatbots and mental wellness applications for help with stress, anxiety, and loneliness, these technologies currently lack robust scientific evidence to support their effectiveness and are not subject to consistent regulatory oversight. The advisory underscores that AI-driven tools often operate without clinical validation, raising concerns about accuracy, privacy, and potential harm. Some chatbots may provide misleading or inappropriate responses, particularly in crisis situations, and users may become overly reliant on them instead of seeking help from licensed professionals. Additionally, data collected by these apps may be shared or stored insecurely, posing risks to user confidentiality. Experts emphasize that while AI and digital wellness tools can offer accessible, low-cost support and help users track their mood or practice mindfulness, they should not be viewed as comprehensive solutions to the growing mental health crisis. Effective mental health care requires personalized, evidence-based interventions delivered by trained clinicians. The American Psychological Association calls for stronger standards, greater transparency, and rigorous research to evaluate the impact of these technologies. It also urges developers, regulators, and users to approach AI and wellness apps with caution, recognizing their limitations and ensuring they complement—rather than replace—traditional mental health services.