Jiayao Xiang

Sichuan Normal University, Suining Campus

Abstract：

Generation Z students, often termed “digital natives,” face heightened mental health vulnerabilities due to hyperconnected digital environments, manifesting as emotional fragility (termed the “fragile student” syndrome). This study explores how university counselors can apply empathy psychology—integrating cognitive understanding, emotional resonance, and responsive action—to address these challenges. Through theoretical frameworks and empirical case studies, empathy-driven interventions are shown to enhance therapeutic trust, reduce academic stress by 41%, and rebuild student self-efficacy. Strategies include blended digital engagement to reduce stigma, culturally sensitive counseling models, and AI-supported resilience tools. The findings underscore empathy’s pivotal role in reorienting institutional mental health systems toward student-centered responsiveness, with implications for counselor training and workload policies.

Key Words：

mental health education; counselors; empathy psychology; college students