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Social media has become an alternative space for emotional expression among university students, particularly as a medium for sharing personal problems or emotional distress. This study aims to examine the effect of social media use as a venting platform on the mental health of students at STAIN Mandailing Natal. A quantitative associative research design was employed, involving 25 fifth-semester students as respondents. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire measuring the intensity of social media venting behavior and mental health indicators, including stress, anxiety, mood, and self-confidence. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, including correlation and simple linear regression. The findings indicate that social media use as a place for venting has a significant relationship with students’ mental health. Positive responses received through social media tend to improve emotional well-being, while negative responses may increase stress and anxiety levels. These findings suggest that social media can function both as a supportive and risky environment for students’ mental health, depending on how it is used. Therefore, students are encouraged to use social media wisely, and educational institutions are advised to provide mental health literacy and guidance related to healthy social media use.

Honesty is one of the core values in Islamic education that serves as a foundation for shaping individual character, particularly in Islamic boarding schools (pesantren). This study aims to explore honesty as a fundamental value in Islam, its implementation strategies in pesantren, and its impact on the character development of students (santri). Using a qualitative approach, this research utilizes literature analysis and field observations to understand how honesty is taught, practiced, and internalized in the daily lives of students. The findings reveal that honesty is implemented through the reinforcement of religious values in daily activities, fostering truthful behavior in the teaching-learning process, and role modeling by caregivers and educators. Implementation strategies include an ethics-based educational approach, strict supervision, and continuous evaluation. The impact is evident in the increased self-confidence of students, strengthened integrity, and their ability to face life challenges in alignment with Islamic principles. Thus, honesty is not only a critical element in shaping the character of students but also a foundation for developing individuals who are responsible, trustworthy, and morally upright. This study recommends the consistent application of honesty-based learning methods as a pillar of character education in pesantren.