Open Access
OBM Neurobiology
Review
Enhancing University Students’ Mental Health under Artificial
Intelligence: Principles of Behaviour Therapy
Mubashir Zafar *
Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Hail, Saudi
Arabia; E-Mail: [email protected]
* Correspondence: Mubashir Zafar; E-Mail: [email protected]
Academic Editor: Félix Fernando Monteiro Neto
OBM Neurobiology Received: March 13, 2024
2024, volume 8, issue 2 Accepted: May 19, 2024
doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225 Published: May 24, 2024
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of mental health issues among university students has become a
growing concern globally. This review explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
integrated with principles of behaviour therapy to address mental health challenges among
university students. The paper examines how AI technologies, including chatbots, virtual
reality, and machine learning algorithms, can be harnessed to provide accessible, personalized,
and effective mental health interventions. Furthermore, it discusses applying behaviour
therapy principles within AI-driven mental health interventions, focusing on techniques such
as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and reinforcement strategies. The review
highlights the promising outcomes and challenges of integrating AI and behaviour therapy
principles in university mental health services, emphasizing the need for ethical
considerations, privacy protection, and cultural sensitivity. By synthesizing current research
findings and theoretical frameworks, this paper provides insights into the potential of AI-
driven behaviour therapy interventions to enhance university students’ mental health and
well-being.
Keywords
University students; mental health; artificial intelligence; principles; behaviour therapy
© 2024 by the author. This is an open access article distributed under the
conditions of the Creative Commons by Attribution License, which permits
unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium or format,
provided the original work is correctly cited.
OBM Neurobiology 2024; 8(2), doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225
1. Introduction
The prevalence of mental health issues among university students has reached alarming levels in
recent years, constituting a significant public health concern worldwide. Research indicates a
substantial increase in the rates of depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders among
university populations [1]. Various factors contribute to this phenomenon, including academic
pressures, social isolation, financial stressors, and the transition to adulthood. The demanding
nature of university life, coupled with limited access to mental health resources, exacerbates the
vulnerability of students to mental health challenges.
In response to this growing crisis, there is an urgent need for innovative and accessible mental
health interventions tailored to the unique needs and preferences of university students. Traditional
approaches to mental health care, characterized by face-to-face therapy sessions and resource-
intensive interventions, often encounter barriers such as stigma, limited resources, and
geographical constraints. Consequently, there is a pressing demand for alternative modalities to
overcome these barriers and effectively support university students.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising paradigm for transforming mental health
care delivery, offering scalable, personalized, and cost-effective solutions. AI-driven technologies,
including chatbots, virtual reality simulations, and machine learning algorithms, can potentially
revolutionize the landscape of mental health interventions for university students. These
technologies can provide on-demand support, deliver evidence-based interventions, and adapt
dynamically to users’ needs and preferences.
Moreover, integrating principles of behaviour therapy within AI-driven interventions holds
promise for addressing university students’ mental health challenges. Behaviour therapy, grounded
in empirical research and cognitive-behavioural principles, emphasizes modifying maladaptive
thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses to promote psychological well-being [2]. By
integrating behaviour therapy techniques such as cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and
positive reinforcement into AI-driven platforms, mental health interventions can be tailored to
address university students' specific needs and concerns.
Studies have shown that AI-based interventions can be as effective as traditional therapy in
managing stress and anxiety among students, with the added benefit of convenience and reduced
stigma [3-6]. Fitzpatrick et al. [4] found that AI-powered mental health apps improved self-reported
mental health outcomes and coping strategies among university students. Torous et al. [5]
emphasize the potential of AI to deliver personalized and adaptive behavioral therapies, offering
targeted support for a diverse student population. Nadarzynski et al. [6] highlight the potential of
AI-based interventions to address students' unmet mental health needs by providing scalable,
efficient, and data-driven support. By leveraging AI, universities can address the mental health
needs of their student populations more effectively, providing scalable and efficient support
systems that complement existing therapy services.
This review aims to explore the intersection of AI and behaviour therapy principles in enhancing
university students’ mental health. This paper seeks to elucidate the potential benefits and
challenges associated with integrating AI and behaviour therapy in university mental health services
by synthesizing current research findings, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications.
Page 2/6
OBM Neurobiology 2024; 8(2), doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225
Through a comprehensive examination of the literature, this review aims to provide insights into
the efficacy, feasibility, and ethical considerations of AI-driven behavior therapy interventions for
university students (Table 1).
Table 1 Description of Selected Studies include in the review article.
Authors & Year Title Key Findings
Reviews existing research on internet
Internet psychotherapy and virtual
psychotherapy and virtual reality
Andrews & reality interventions for university
interventions for university students,
Williams [1] students: A review of the research
outlining potential benefits and
and future directions
future directions.
Provides foundational understanding
of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics
Beck [2] and its application, offering insights
and beyond
into the basics and beyond for
effective interventions.
Delivering cognitive behavior therapy
Investigates the effectiveness of a
to young adults with symptoms of
fully automated conversational agent
Fitzpatrick et al. depression and anxiety using a fully
(Woebot) for delivering CBT to young
[4] automated conversational agent
adults with depression and anxiety
(Woebot): A randomized controlled
symptoms.
trial
Examines the efficacy of a
Computerized, interactive,
computerized cognitive-behavioral
Proudfoot et al. multimedia cognitive-behavioural
program for treating anxiety and
[7] program for anxiety and depression
depression in general practice,
in general practice
showing promising results.
Utilizing a personal smartphone Demonstrates how a smartphone app
custom app to assess the patient can be used to monitor depressive
Torous et al. [8] health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) symptoms in patients with major
depressive symptoms in patients depressive disorder, aiding in
with major depressive disorder assessment and tracking.
Discusses the impact of digital
Technological innovations in mental innovations in mental healthcare,
Hollis et al. [3] healthcare: harnessing the digital including AI and its potential to
revolution improve the quality of care and reach
underserved populations.
AI-driven interventions can enhance
AI and the future of Cognitive CBT for university students by
Kooistra et al.
Behavioral Therapy: A systematic offering personalized exercises and
[9]
review tailoring interventions to individual
needs (Frontiers).
Page 3/6
OBM Neurobiology 2024; 8(2), doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225
Artificial intelligence significantly
AI effectively manage mental health
facilitates development in the mental
Chen J et al. [10] among college students, offering
health of college students: A
evidence-based interventions
bibliometric analysis
Evaluating a Web-based social Web-based interventions can be
McCall et al. anxiety intervention among sophisticated enough to benefit users
[11] university students: Randomized even when delivered as stand-alone
controlled trial treatments
2. Method
To conduct this review, a systematic approach was employed to identify relevant literature
published between 2010 and 2024. Electronic databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, and Google
Scholar, were systematically searched using a combination of keywords and Boolean operators. The
following search terms were utilised: “university students,” “mental health,” “artificial intelligence,”
“behaviour therapy,” and related variations.
Studies were included based on their relevance to the intersection of AI and behaviour therapy
in university mental health settings. Inclusion criteria encompassed empirical research articles,
review papers, and theoretical discussions that explored the application of AI technologies and
behaviour therapy principles in addressing mental health challenges among university students.
Following the initial search, duplicates were removed, and titles and abstracts were screened to
assess their relevance to the research topic. Full-text articles meeting the inclusion criteria were
then retrieved and reviewed in detail. Additional articles were identified through manual searches
of reference lists and citation tracking of relevant papers.
Data extraction involved synthesizing key findings, methodologies, and implications from the
selected articles. The review process adhered to established guidelines for systematic literature
reviews, ensuring rigor and transparency in the selection and synthesis of evidence.
The findings of this review provide insights into the potential of AI-driven behaviour therapy
interventions to enhance university students’ mental health and well-being while highlighting the
need for further research and collaboration in this burgeoning field.
3. Discussion
3.1 Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health Interventions
AI technologies have revolutionized mental health interventions, offering scalable and accessible
solutions for university students [4]. Chatbots, virtual reality, and machine learning algorithms are
among the innovative AI tools utilized to deliver personalized mental health support.
3.2 Principles of Behaviour Therapy
Behaviour therapy principles, rooted in cognitive restructuring and exposure therapy, have
demonstrated efficacy in treating various mental health disorders among university students [2].
These principles emphasize modifying maladaptive behaviours and cognitions to promote
psychological well-being.
Page 4/6
OBM Neurobiology 2024; 8(2), doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225
3.3 Integration of AI and Behaviour Therapy Principles
The integration of AI and behaviour therapy principles offers a promising approach to enhancing
mental health interventions for university students [7]. AI-driven platforms can deliver tailored
interventions based on individual needs, incorporating behaviour therapy techniques such as
cognitive restructuring and positive reinforcement.
3.4 Promising Outcomes and Challenges
Studies have reported favorable outcomes associated with AI-driven behaviour therapy
interventions for university students’ mental health [8]. However, challenges including privacy
concerns, ethical considerations, and cultural sensitivity, require careful attention to ensure the
effectiveness and accessibility of these interventions.
One study examined the use of AI in supporting Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for university
students, highlighting AI's ability to tailor interventions to individual needs and provide personalized
exercises [9] (Frontiers). This approach can improve therapy outcomes and enhance students'
engagement in the therapeutic process. AI can also offer continuous monitoring and feedback,
aiding therapists in making informed decisions about their patients' progress and needs.
AI-powered chatbots and mental health apps are another area of interest in recent literature.
These tools provide students immediate access to mental health support, especially outside
traditional therapy hours. A study on AI-based chatbots found that these tools can effectively
manage stress and anxiety among university students, offering evidence-based interventions and
self-help resources [10] (BioMed Central). Chatbots can also serve as a first point of contact for
students hesitant to seek therapy, helping to reduce stigma and barriers to access.
Moreover, AI-driven predictive analytics have been employed to identify students at risk of
mental health issues and offer proactive support. By analyzing data from academic performance,
social interactions, and self-reported emotions, AI can flag students who may benefit from early
interventions and targeted support [11] (PLOS). This proactive approach can help prevent the
escalation of mental health issues among university students.
In conclusion, integrating AI and behavior therapy shows great potential in enhancing mental
health interventions for university students. By offering personalized support, accessible resources,
and proactive monitoring, AI-driven tools can complement traditional therapy and improve
students' overall mental health care landscape. Further research and development in this field are
essential to maximize the benefits of AI in mental health interventions for university students.
4. Conclusion
The synthesis of AI and behaviour therapy principles holds immense potential to address
university students' complex mental health needs. Future research and collaborative efforts are
essential to optimize the integration of these approaches while addressing ethical and cultural
considerations.
Page 5/6
OBM Neurobiology 2024; 8(2), doi:10.21926/obm.neurobiol.2402225
Author Contributions
The author did all the research work of this study.
Competing Interests
The author has declared that no competing interests exist.
References
1. Andrews G, Williams AD. Internet psychotherapy and virtual reality interventions for university
students: A review of the research and future directions. J Cyber Ther Rehabil. 2015; 8: 171-
178.
2. Beck JS. Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond. New York, NY: Guilford Publications;
2011.
3. Hollis C, Morriss R, Martin J, Amani S, Cotton R, Denis M, et al. Technological innovations in
mental healthcare: Harnessing the digital revolution. Br J Psychiatry. 2015; 206: 263-265.
4. Fitzpatrick KK, Darcy A, Vierhile M. Delivering cognitive behavior therapy to young adults with
symptoms of depression and anxiety using a fully automated conversational agent (Woebot): A
randomized controlled trial. JMIR Ment Health. 2017; 4: e19.
5. Torous J, Wisniewski H, Liu G, Keshavan M. Mental health mobile phone app usage, concerns,
and benefits among psychiatric outpatients: Comparative survey study. JMIR Ment Health.
2018; 5: e11715.
6. Nadarzynski T, Miles O, Cowie A, Ridge D. Acceptability of artificial intelligence (AI)-led chatbot
services in healthcare: A mixed-methods study. Dig Health. 2019; 5. doi:
10.1177/2055207619871808.
7. Proudfoot J, Goldberg D, Mann A, Everitt B, Marks I, Gray JA. Computerized, interactive,
multimedia cognitive-behavioural program for anxiety and depression in general practice.
Psychol Med. 2003; 33: 217-227.
8. Torous J, Staples P, Shanahan M, Lin C, Peck P, Keshavan M, et al. Utilizing a personal
smartphone custom app to assess the patient health questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) depressive
symptoms in patients with major depressive disorder. JMIR Mental Health. 2015; 2: e8.
9. Kooistra A, et al. AI and the future ofcognitive behavioral therapy: A systematic review. J Med
Internet Res. 2022; 24: e29995.
10. Chen J, Yuan D, Dong R, Cai J, Ai Z, Zhou S. Artificial intelligence significantly facilitates
development in the mental health of college students: A bibliometric analysis. Front Psychol.
2024; 15: 1375294.
11. McCall HC, Richardson CG, Helgadottir FD, Chen FS. Evaluating a Web-based social anxiety
intervention among university students: Randomized controlled trial. J Med Internet Res. 2018;
20: e91.
Page 6/6
