Utilizing digital technologies to promote well-being in university students: the 'DigiWell' research protocol

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Digital Health
• Higher Education

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected university student mental health, especially in healthcare fields.
• Positive psychology interventions are effective for mental health enhancement.
• Digital delivery of psychological interventions is a viable approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance mental health in Italian university students using digital interventions within a stepped care model.
• To implement online positive interventions for mild distress (DigiWell_Step 1).
• To evaluate a Virtual Reality intervention for moderate distress (DigiWell_Step 2).

Main Methods:

• A stepped care approach integrating digital interventions (online, VR).
• Cluster analyses and linear models to assess intervention outcomes.
• Three-month follow-up to evaluate sustained benefits.

Main Results:

• Anticipated significant improvements in student well-being.
• Expected reduction in psychological distress.
• Demonstration of sustained benefits at follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Digital mental health interventions are effective and accessible for university students.
• A stepped care approach enhances engagement and cost-effectiveness.
• This study contributes to understanding digital intervention efficacy for student mental health.