The Relationship Between Digital Literacy and Internet Penetration on the Risk of Anxiety Disorders: A Big Data Analysis of Province-Based Social Media Usage

Abstract

The rapid surge in internet infrastructure in Indonesia has redefined social interaction, yet the psychological implications of this digital expansion remain insufficiently explored within regional contexts. This study examines the relationship between digital literacy, internet penetration, and anxiety disorder risks using big data analysis across 38 Indonesian provinces. The research aims to evaluate whether digital literacy serves as a critical moderator for technology-induced psychological distress. Adopting a quantitative secondary data design, the study synthesized metrics from 221,563,479 users using 2023–2024 reports from APJII, Kemenkominfo, and the Ministry of Health. Multiple linear regression and spatial analysis revealed that high internet penetration significantly correlates with increased anxiety ( ), especially in regions with deficient digital literacy. However, digital literacy demonstrated a robust buffering effect ( ), where proficiency in digital ethics and safety significantly reduced anxiety prevalence. These findings suggest that public health strategies must integrate digital hygiene into national mental health frameworks. The study concludes that fostering cognitive digital competence is vital for a resilient society, suggesting that future policies prioritize educational scaffolding over mere infrastructure expansion to bridge the emerging psychological digital divide.