Extent and Severity of Internet Addiction in Persons with Common Mental Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: There is a scarcity of literature about Internet addiction (IA) in common mental disorders (CMDs) such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance use disorders. Early identification of IA in CMDs can help in better management of both disorders. Aims: To assess the extent and severity of IA in persons with CMDs. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional, single-group, exploratory study conducted at the Department of Psychiatry of tertiary care teaching hospital in North India. Patients aged 18 years and above and diagnosed with CMDs (Neurotic and stress-related disorders, Depressive Disorder, and substance use disorder) as per the ICD-11 criteria were included in the study after taking written informed consent. The severity of CMDs was assessed on Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D), Yale-Brown Obsessive-compulsive Scale, Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire and Severity of Opioid Dependence Questionnaire. The level of IA was assessed using Young’s IA Test. Results: A total of 150 patients diagnosed with CMDs were included. Males were slightly more than females (56% v/s 44%), most were younger than 40 years of age (55.3%), married (66.7%) and from urban (65.3%) background. Out of 150, 84 (56%) had depressive disorder, 45 (30%) had anxiety disorder, 15 (10%) had OCD and only 6 (4%) had substance use disorders. 69 (46%) participants had IA (36 mild and 33 moderate) and none had severe IA. A significant association was found between IA and CMDs (P < 0.05). Age, marital status, and type of residence were independent predictors or risk factors for IA. Conclusion: The index study concludes that there is a strong association between CMDs and IA. About half of persons with CMDs have IA.

Keywords

• common mental disorders
• depression
• internet addiction
• substance use disorders