JCU Digital Wellbeing Group Why our research matters

Why our research matters

Our research provides evidence-led digital support for mental health and wellbeing, particularly in underserved regional areas.

We empower users through human-centered design principles to harness technology safely and effectively.

We explore how digital media can be both helpful and harmful — bringing people together to strengthen community and wellbeing, but also causing challenges and disconnection.

We advance research in digital futures for regional Australia, ensuring inclusivity and ethical practices in the data and tools developed between regional, rural, and remote areas and cities.


Impact Highlights:

  • Policy Change: Our research has influenced national and international guidelines on the ethical use of AI in mental healthcare.
  • Guiding Best Practice: JCU DigiWell research is guiding researchers in the best practices of using social media data to monitor public mental health in disaster contexts.
  • Educational Tools: Our findings on student engagement are being implemented across JCU’s online courses, improving student wellbeing and retention.

Selected Publications & Research Outputs:

Our team publishes innovative research advancing digital wellbeing in leading outlets. Key publications include: