The Student-Led Digital Wellness Initiative: A Collaborative Approach to Increase Digital Wellness in High Schools

Ellen Campos Sousa and Tessa Garcia-Collart

Journal of the Association for Consumer Research, 2026, vol. 11, issue 1, 110 - 126

Abstract: In response to growing concerns surrounding social media’s adverse effects on adolescent mental health, the goal of this project was the collaborative development of the Student-Led Digital Wellness Initiative (SDWI), a student-led program that integrates social media literacy and mindfulness in schools. Through a collaborative approach involving school administrators and students, this initiative empowers students to take an active role in shaping digital wellness strategies. By prioritizing collaboration at every stage, the SDWI adopts a student-led perspective that not only raises awareness of social media risks but also nurtures emotional resilience and well-being. We highlight how stakeholder collaboration is critical for developing and cocreating initiatives that are relevant, impactful, and sustainable. We emphasize that involving students in leadership roles results in programs better tailored to their needs, and likely more effective at driving meaningful, lasting change in schools, while promoting digital wellness through practical, sustainable solutions for high school communities.

Date: 2026
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