ECOLOGICAL LITERACY ENHANCING ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH IN THE DIGITAL ERA
Keywords:
ecological literacy, adolescent mental health, digital era, , nature connectedness, psychological well-beingAbstract
Adolescent mental health has become an increasing concern in the digital era due to excessive exposure to digital media and reduced interaction with natural environments. Ecological literacy has emerged as a potential approach to promoting psychological well-being and encouraging sustainable behaviors among adolescents. This study aimed to analyze the role of ecological literacy in enhancing adolescent mental health through a literature review of ten scientific articles published between 2021 and 2026. The selected studies included systematic reviews, integrative reviews, longitudinal studies, cross-sectional surveys, and experimental studies related to adolescent mental health, environmental health literacy, nature connectedness, and nature-based interventions. The findings indicated that excessive social media use is associated with anxiety, stress, depression, and low self-esteem among adolescents. In contrast, ecological literacy, environmental health literacy, and stronger connections with nature contribute to better emotional regulation, positive affect, life satisfaction, and pro-environmental behaviors. School-based nature interventions also demonstrated positive effects on adolescents’ physical, social, and psychological well-being. These findings suggest that ecological literacy has considerable potential as a promotive strategy for strengthening adolescent mental health and resilience in the digital era through the integration of environmental education and meaningful experiences with nature.
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