Digital Technologies and Student Mental Health: Risks of Social Media and the Promise of Virtual Reality and...

The rapid growth of social media use among students has raised concerns about its impact on mental health. While excessive engagement can increase anxiety and stress, emerging virtual technologies show potential as tools for psychological support.

A mixed-methods experimental study was conducted in a university in Kazakhstan, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. A student survey assessed patterns of social media use and their association with anxiety, stress, and self-esteem. A content analysis of Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter posts identified prevalent mental health themes, formats, and engagement patterns. An experimental intervention tested the effects of virtual reality (VR) meditations and autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) content on reducing anxiety and stress.

Higher intensity of social media use correlated with increased anxiety and stress, and lower self-esteem. Both VR and ASMR interventions significantly reduced anxiety, with VR showing the strongest effect. Content analysis revealed that social media can both amplify anxiety triggers and serve as a source of emotional support.

Findings align with existing literature linking social media to poorer emotional well-being, while highlighting the potential of immersive digital interventions for stress reduction. The integrated MDI-STUDENT model was developed, combining relaxation techniques, digital hygiene practices, and reflective activities to build resilience.

Excessive social media use is associated with adverse mental health outcomes in students, but structured virtual interventions, especially VR, can mitigate these effects. The study supports integrating digital stress management strategies into university mental health programs.