Association of Internet Addiction with Insomnia, Depression, Anxiety and Stress among University Students - A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Background & Objectives: Internet is undoubtedly leading to the fourth industrial revolution. Use of internet comes with its misuse, namely Internet Addiction (IA). Mood disorders have been reported to be associated with heavy internet use, especially among young adults. We assessed the prevalence of IA and its association with insomnia, anxiety, depression and stress among University students. Material & Methods: In a cross-sectional survey using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire, information on socio-demographic characteristics was collected from all willing students. Previously validated and standardized scales like Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS 42) and Young Internet Addiction Test (YIAT) were used. Results: Among 430 average YIAT score was 29.69 ± 16.66. Potential IA prevalence rate was 13% with a 95% CI of 10 - 16%. Prevalence of depression was 44.1%, Anxiety was 59.1% and stress was 37.2%. Significant correlations were found between potential IA and insomnia, stress, anxiety and depression (p-value < 0.0001). ISI, DASS stress scores were significantly associated with internet addiction. Conclusion: Potential internet addiction often exists with other psychological problems which warrant its detection in order to provide appropriate counselling and supervision.