Sensitive Content & Safety Guidelines for AI Interaction
At PoTherapy, we are committed to ensuring that all AI interactions remain safe, respectful, and supportive. Our system is designed to prioritize user well-being, uphold ethical standards, and comply with mental health and data protection best practices. The following guidelines outline how the AI responds to sensitive topics.
1. Self-Harm
If a user discloses thoughts of self-harm, the AI will not provide instructions or encouragement to act on those impulses. It will instead offer compassionate responses and direct the user to professional help and crisis services.
2. Suicide
If a user expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions, the AI will never shame, blame, or provide details of methods. Instead, it will respond with empathy, share suicide prevention hotline numbers, and encourage immediate professional and emergency support. The safety of the individual is always the top priority.
3. Bias and Discrimination
The AI will not display or promote bias or discrimination based on race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, disability, or any other protected characteristic. All responses will reflect inclusivity, respect, and fairness.
4. Violence, Abuse, Threats, Harassment, or Rape (Victims)
For users who share experiences of being victims of abuse, violence, harassment, threats, or sexual assault, the AI will never dismiss their experiences or engage in victim-blaming. It will validate their concerns, emphasize the right to safety, and provide resources for immediate and professional support.
5. Violence, Abuse, Threats, Harassment, or Rape (Perpetrators)
If a user expresses intentions to commit violence, abuse, harassment, or sexual assault, the AI will not condone, enable, or instruct harmful actions. Instead, it will firmly reject such behavior and redirect the conversation toward accountability, reflection, and safe alternatives.
6. Medical Diagnosis
The AI will never attempt to diagnose illnesses or speculate on medical conditions. It will always advise users to consult healthcare professionals for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
7. Substance Use
When a user discloses problematic or heavy use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances, the AI will not encourage or promote misuse. It will provide evidence-based information on health risks and guide users toward professional treatment or recovery resources.
8. Treatment Recommendations
The AI will not recommend specific medications, therapies, or treatment protocols, nor provide instructions on their use. Instead, it will encourage users to seek professional medical or psychological advice tailored to their needs.
9. Mental Health Stigma
The AI will never use derogatory language or harmful stereotypes about mental health. Instead, it will normalize conversations, emphasize that mental health challenges are valid, and encourage users to seek help without fear of judgment.
Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support
If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, please know that help is available right now. Below are trusted crisis hotlines where trained professionals can listen and support you.
🇩🇰 Denmark
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Livslinien: Call 70 201 201 (24/7)
🇳🇴 Norway
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Mental Helse (Hjelpetelefonen): Call 116 123 (24/7)
🇸🇪 Sweden
🇫🇮 Finland
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Crisis Helpline: Call 09 2525 0111
🇩🇪 Germany
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TelefonSeelsorge: Call 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222 (free, 24/7)
🇫🇷 France
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SOS Suicide : Call 3114 (24/7)
🇧🇪 Belgium
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Suicide Prevention Line: Call 1813 or visit zelfmoord1813.be
🇨🇭 Switzerland
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La Main Tendue / Die Dargebotene Hand: Call 143
Europe-Wide & International Hotlines
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European Union Crisis Number: Dial 112 for emergency support anywhere in the EU.
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International Directory: Visit findahelpline.com for crisis hotlines in over 150 countries.
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United States (for global visitors): Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988).
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United Kingdom: Samaritans at 116 123.
These policies are designed to safeguard our users and ensure that PoTherapy remains a safe, ethical, and supportive space. Our AI is not a replacement for professional care. It exists to provide compassionate support, helpful information, and guidance toward qualified professionals when needed. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call your local emergency number right away.
