Key Takeaways:
- Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a major concern for workers, with 38% of workers worrying that AI will make some or all of their job duties outdated.
- The rise of AI is leading to job losses, with nearly 55,000 layoffs in the US in 2025 attributed to AI.
- Therapists are seeing an increase in patients experiencing anxiety and fear about becoming obsolete due to AI.
- Workers can take steps to cope with AI-related anxiety, including allowing themselves to grieve, reflecting on their values and goals, and learning about AI to restore a sense of agency.
- Creating distance between one’s identity and work can help individuals cope with the changing job landscape.
Introduction to AI-Related Anxiety
The increasing presence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace is causing significant anxiety and fear among workers. Emma Kobil, a trauma counselor in Denver, has noticed a growing number of patients expressing concerns about AI, including shock, disbelief, and fear about navigating a changing career landscape. This phenomenon is not unique to Kobil’s practice, as other therapists, such as Harvey Lieberman, a clinical psychologist in New York, are also seeing patients struggling with the idea of becoming obsolete due to AI. A recent survey by the American Psychological Association found that 38% of workers worry that AI will make some or all of their job duties outdated in the future.
The Impact of AI on the Job Market
The rise of AI is leading to significant job losses, with nearly 55,000 layoffs in the US in 2025 attributed to AI, according to data from consulting firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas. This number is expected to grow as AI continues to advance and replace more jobs. A study by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that AI can already replace around 11% of the US labor market. Companies such as Salesforce, Accenture, and Lufthansa have already pointed to AI as a reason for recent restructuring moves. The impact of AI on the job market is not only economic but also psychological, as workers struggle to come to terms with the idea of being replaced by machines.
Existential Questions and Personal Value
Losing a job to AI can trigger a host of existential questions, including feelings of personal worth and value. Ben Yalom, a San Diego-based psychotherapist, notes that the experience can feel like a personal rejection, leading to questions about one’s identity and purpose. Emma Kobil adds that underneath these feelings is often a deeper fear of being left behind or not being "enough." This fear can be amplified by the rapid pace of technological change, which can feel overwhelming and out of control. Therapists emphasize the importance of acknowledging and processing these emotions, rather than trying to suppress or deny them.
Coping with AI-Related Anxiety
So, how can workers cope with the anxiety and fear caused by AI? Therapists recommend allowing themselves to grieve and process their emotions, rather than trying to rush into a new career or job search. Riana Elyse Anderson, a licensed clinical psychologist and associate professor at Columbia University, suggests taking a step back to reflect on one’s values and goals. This can involve asking oneself questions like "What do I want to do?" and "What kind of work brings me fulfillment?" Creating distance between one’s identity and work can also help individuals cope with the changing job landscape. As Kobil notes, "You are so much more than your work."
Restoring a Sense of Agency
While the growing role of AI in the workplace can feel overwhelming, therapists emphasize the importance of taking action to restore a sense of agency. This can involve learning about AI and its impact on the job market, as well as exploring new skills and career options. Rhiannon Batchelder, a career coach based in Denver, notes that understanding the basics of AI can be an asset, especially as the technology continues to evolve. By taking proactive steps to educate themselves and adapt to the changing job market, workers can regain a sense of control and confidence in their careers. Ultimately, the rise of AI presents both challenges and opportunities for workers, and by acknowledging and addressing the associated anxiety and fear, individuals can navigate this transition with greater ease and resilience.