Google has updated its Gemini chatbot to make it faster for distressed users to access mental health resources during moments of crisis.

The update follows a wrongful death lawsuit that alleged Gemini ‘coached’ a man to die by suicide. As part of the redesign, when a conversation suggests a user might be in a potential crisis related to suicide or self-harm, a “Help is available” module now provides quicker access to mental health hotlines and text lines.

The new help module also includes more empathetic responses designed ‘to encourage people to seek help.’ Once activated, the option for professional support remains clearly visible throughout the conversation. Google engaged clinical experts during this redesign and has committed $30 million over three years to fund global hotlines.

While acknowledging that Gemini is not a substitute for professional care, Google’s move comes amid broader industry scrutiny over AI products’ ability to support vulnerable users effectively. Other companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have also taken steps in this direction, recognizing the potential risks of misguiding or failing to assist distressed individuals.