Understanding Fluoride's Influence on Mental Health: AIGC Educational Methods for Undergraduate Students

Abstract

Purpose of the Study: This study examines the perceived effects of mental health from fluoride exposure among college students within fluoride endemic regions of China and evaluates the effectiveness of AI generated content (AIGC) as a teaching tool for raising awareness of such effects. We aim to close knowledge gaps in environmental health literacy and test AIGC's potential to expand understanding of complicated health matters. Method: This adopted approach was a qualitative one and the focus group discussions with 20 college students in fluoride endemic regions. The AIGC materials consisted of infographics, animations and interactive modules to explain fluoride's mental health effects to the participants. Data were analyzed thematically to provide patterns of recurring problems of perceptions associated with mental health, educational effectiveness, and accessibility. Findings: Participants felt there was a link between fluoride exposure and anxiety, cognitive problems and emotional instability. Awareness of knowledge gaps increased significantly, with 90% of participants aware of knowledge gaps filled by the AIGC materials. AIGC was successful but there were some accessibility challenges found mostly in low resource settings. Implications: Their findings emphasise the importance of targeted mental health resources in fluoride endemic regions as well as the potential of AIGC as an effective public health education tool. Future initiatives should embrace hybrid educational models in order to be inclusive and remove disparities in digital access.