Mulawarman, Sigit Hariyadi, Eni Rindi Antika, Abi Fa’izzarahman Prabawa, Achmad Miftachul 'Ilmi, Dini Chairunnisa, Amalia Rizki Pautina, Kristin Melliyati Benu, Erna Dwi Nugraini, Galuh Nadhita, Alvia Ainil Lathifah
The integration of digital technology into mental health support has significantly influenced Generation Z students, who are highly engaged with online platforms. Innovations such as counseling applications, virtual reality (VR), and AI-based chatbots provide new avenues for managing stress, reducing anxiety, and fostering positive self-talk. Moreover, for Generation Z, who grew up in a technologically advanced world, social media frequently serves as a medium for emotional expression in response to academic and environmental pressures. However, excessive use of social media is increasingly associated with mental health issues, including heightened anxiety and negative self-talk. This qualitative study explores the impact of digital transformation on the self-talk of Generation Z students in Indonesian universities. It aims to (1) identify internal and external factors contributing to changes in self-talk, (2) examine how digital technologies influence these transformations, and (3) evaluate the potential of digital tools in enhancing counseling services. Data were gathered through focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews with university students and counselors. Participants shared their experiences with digital platforms, social media, and technology-assisted counseling tools. Thematic analysis revealed that internal factors, including self-reflection, spirituality, and coping strategies, as well as external factors such as academic pressure, social dynamics, family background, economic challenges, and access to counseling services, play significant roles in shaping self-talk. The findings indicate that digital tools, such as VR, AI chatbots, Spotify, and YouTube, contribute positively to emotional regulation and the development of positive self-talk, as they can be utilized as self-help and self-development media. However, overexposure to social media often leads to negative emotional states, such as self criticism, irrational thought, anxiety, and insecurity. This suggests a dual role of digital technology: as both a facilitator and a risk factor in students’ psychological well-being. Educational institutions are advised to leverage digital counseling innovations while promoting digital literacy and mindful use. Further research is needed to investigate the specific effects of various digital platforms and demographic differences on students’ self-talk patterns and overall mental health outcomes. Copyright (c) 2025 The Authors. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Universitas Negeri Semarang, Indonesia; Islamic Education Guidance and Counseling, Universitas Islam Negeri Salatiga, Indonesia
