Exploring the link between internet addiction and sleep quality and the implications of this relationship: a systematic review
Abstract
Objective: The internet has become an important element in people's lives. The increasing use of smartphones and other electronic devices has promoted an increase in digital interactions, resulting in significant problems in the field of mental health. However, one of the implications of excessive internet use is impaired sleep quality, especially among users who use the internet before bed.
Methods: We searched the PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases to identify articles that addressed the association between excessive internet use and sleep quality. Studies in which participants had a previous diagnosis of insomnia or used psychoactive substances were excluded.
Results: The initial search resulted in a total of 3269 articles, 25 of which met the inclusion criteria. The results suggested an association between excessive internet use and sleep quality.
Conclusion: Excessive internet use significantly compromises sleep quality, directly affecting users' mental and physical health. This study highlights the importance of strategies that promote digital education to raise awareness about the risks of excessive use of screens. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO, CRD 42024610542.
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid.
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