Communication Media and Mental Health Literacy among Indonesian University Students: Awareness, Information Exposure, and Peer Support Readiness

Abstract

This study explores university students' awareness, experiences, and perceptions of mental health issues and examines the role of communication media in promoting mental well-being. A quantitative survey complemented by qualitative thematic analysis of open-ended responses was conducted among 263 students at Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics and Braun and Clarke's thematic analysis approach. The findings indicate that students demonstrate high awareness of mental health issues and frequently rely on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube for mental health information. Respondents perceived social media as a valuable channel for mental health education, awareness building, stigma reduction, and peer support. However, social media was also viewed as a source of stress, social comparison, and misinformation, highlighting its dual influence on student well-being. Although students expressed a strong willingness to support peers experiencing mental health difficulties, many lacked confidence regarding appropriate intervention strategies. Furthermore, interpersonal communication remained the preferred channel for validating mental health information and seeking support. The study contributes to health communication literature by demonstrating how social media and interpersonal communication operate as complementary mechanisms in mental health communication. The findings suggest that mental health initiatives should combine digital communication strategies with practical mental health literacy programmes to strengthen awareness, trust, and peer support among young adults. Keywords: Communication media, health communication, mental health literacy, new media, social media.