<![CDATA[The increasing use of digital technology in higher education has intensified students’ exposure to online learning platforms, social media, and digital communication, potentially leading to digital stress and adverse health outcomes. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 210 students of Poltekkes Kemenkes Padang from January to March 2026. Respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS 4.0. Validity and reliability of the measurement model were assessed prior to structural model testing. Associations among variables were evaluated using path coefficients (β), 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), and p-values obtained through bootstrapping procedures. Results: Digital stress significantly reduced health behavior (β = −0.48; 95% CI: −0.59 to −0.36; p < 0.001) and increased mental health problems (β = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.40–0.63; p < 0.001). Health behavior was significantly associated with better mental health outcomes (β = −0.37; 95% CI: −0.49 to −0.24; p < 0.001) and partially mediated the relationship between digital stress and mental health (β = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.11–0.28; p < 0.001). Information overload was identified as the dominant dimension of digital stress, while sleep patterns and physical activity were the most affected health behavior indicators. Conclusion: Digital stress is a significant determinant of students’ health behavior and mental health. Interventions focusing on digital literacy, healthy lifestyle promotion, and mental health support are needed to reduce the negative impacts of excessive digital exposure among college students.]]>
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