The Psychological Impact of Digital Media Consumption on Mental Health,A Case Study of Undergraduate Students in Pakistan

Abstract

The 21^st century saw digital media taking a central part in the life of youth, including university students in Pakistan, affecting their cognitive and social interaction and also emotional well-being. The psychological influence of viewing digital media on mental well-being in undergraduate students across major Pakistani cities is examined herein. The aim is to investigate patterns of use, measure mental health impacts (e.g., depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem), and examine the students’ own attitude and coping processes for the use of digital media. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study married quantitative questionnaires (n=300) with qualitative in-depth interviews (n=30-40) and stratified random sampling of Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi universities. Standardized mental health questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were administered to gain comprehensive knowledge about the scenario. Outcomes indicate high positive correlation between overuse of digital media and elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and reduced self-esteem. The research concludes that although digital media provides the advantage of enhanced connectivity and access to information, overuse adversely impacts students’ mental well-being. It suggests university-level digital literacy education, enhanced campus mental health services, and greater parental and educational engagement in an effort to encourage healthier digital habits among students