Google.org, the charitable arm of Alphabet, is committing $30 million over the next three years to support global crisis hotlines, while Google will update its Gemini AI platform with new mental health and crisis support tools.
Google said Gemini will surface a redesigned “Help is available” module when conversations indicate potential mental health needs, according to an April 7 news release from the company. In cases involving suicide or self-harm risk, the platform will provide a “one-touch” interface connecting users to crisis hotlines via chat, call, text or website, with support options remaining visible throughout the interaction.
The funding, distributed through Google.org, is intended to expand hotline capacity to deliver immediate and safe support for individuals in crisis.
Google is also expanding its partnership with ReflexAI, including $4 million in funding and integration of Gemini into training tools for mental health responders.
The company said its updates also focus on improving AI responses in acute mental health situations and maintaining safeguards for younger users, including protections against emotional dependence and harmful interactions.
Other companies, such as OpenAI, have also taken steps to better recognize and respond to signs of mental distress and steer users to professional support.
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