Mental health intervention strategies among Chinese university students: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Objective To evaluate the effects of different interventions on the mental health of Chinese college students.

Methods We searched the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP, and Wanfang databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of mental health interventions among Chinese college students from inception until July 1, 2024. We assessed the quality of the studies using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2 (RoB 2) and analyzed the data using Stata 17.0.

Results Sixty-three RCTs (n = 7 240 participants) were included. The pooled Hedges′g was –0.718 (95%confidence interval CI: –0.960 to –0.476), indicating a significant improvement. Subgroup analyses revealed significant effects for group counseling (standardized mean difference SMD = –0.907, 95%CI: –1.571 to –0.243), exercise (SMD = –0.937, 95%CI: –1.246 to –0.628), and comprehensive interventions (SMD = –0.850, 95%CI: –1.019 to –0.682). Significant improvements in depression were observed with art interventions (SMD = –2.320, 95%CI: –4.317 to –0.323) and comprehensive interventions (SMD = –1.042, 95%CI: –1.461 to –0.624). Significant effects on anxiety were found with group counseling (SMD = –1.216, 95%CI: –1.656 to –0.777) and art interventions (SMD = –2.874, 95%CI: –5.624 to –0.124).

Conclusions Group counseling, exercise, art, and comprehensive interventions can significantly improve mental health outcomes in college students, including conditions such as depression and anxiety. Universities should adopt targeted interventions based on students′ needs to provide timely and effective mental health support.