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Abstract

Background:During the last few decades, Internet use has not only grown but has also transformed from a tool to collect and share information to a way of connecting with others and the world around us. Individuals aged 18–24 years old account for 18% of global Internet users and those aged from 25 to 34 account for 32% of global Internet users. The general rise in Internet usage also poses a risk of online activities becoming excessive such as gaming/gambling, streaming, watching pornography, and shopping .The excessive and compulsive use of online activities and services which have addictive potential associated with marked functional impairment. A study examining the correlation between PIU, mental health, and sleep quality among Western medical students found that PIU was directly and positively connected to depression anxiety and stress.Aim:The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of compulsive internet use and associated psychological distress among medical students.Methods:A total of 100 medical students of Government medical college participated in an online survey. Participants completed the CIUS(compulsive internet use scale) and Kessler Psychological Distress scale.Results:Students with higher CIUS scores reported significantly lower academic achievements as well as showed significant higher score in Kessler distress scale, Study also showed PIU increases likelihood of anxiousness and depressive symptoms.Conclusion:CIUS as reliable and valid self-report screening instruments for evaluating the severity of PIU symptoms among the medical student population and showed associated significant increase of psychological distress among the students who spend more time on internet.