Digital Interventions for Reducing Loneliness and Depression in Korean College Students: Mixed Methods Evaluation (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the prevalence of loneliness and depression among college students. Digital interventions, such as Woebot and Happify, have shown promise in alleviating these symptoms. OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate the effectiveness and acceptability of Woebot and Happify in reducing loneliness and depression among college students after the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A mixed-methods approach was employed over four months. Sixty-three participants aged 18-27 from Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, South Korea, were initially recruited, with inclusion criteria of elevated loneliness (UCLA Loneliness Scale score ≥ 34-40) and depression (PHQ-9 score ≥ 6). Attrition resulted in a final sample of 27 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to Woebot (n=22), Happify (n=21), or a control group using Bondee, a metaverse social network messenger app (n=10). Quantitative measures (UCLA Loneliness Scale, PHQ-9) and qualitative assessments (user feedback, focused interviews) were used. RESULTS Modest decreases in loneliness and depression post-intervention were observed, although not statistically significant (likely due to small sample size). Welch's ANOVA found no significant differences between intervention groups (UCLA Loneliness: P=.5917; PHQ-9: P=.5058). Qualitative data indicated user satisfaction, with suggestions for improved app effectiveness and personalization. CONCLUSIONS Despite limitations, the study suggests the potential of well-designed digital interventions in alleviating college students' loneliness and depression. Findings underscore the importance of accessible digital tools, mental health literacy education, and comprehensive support systems. Further research with larger samples is needed.