Exploring the mediating role of stress in internet addiction and insomnia among college students

Insomnia is a prevalent sleep disorder with significant implications for both physical and mental health and is often associated with various chronic conditions. This study examines the mediating role of perceived stress in the relationship between internet addiction and insomnia among college students. Utilizing a quantitative correlational design, data were collected from 372 participants using validated instruments, including the Perceived Stress Scale, the Internet Addiction Test, and the Insomnia Severity Index. The results indicated a significant direct effect of internet addiction on insomnia, as well as a strong predictive relationship between internet addiction and perceived stress. Notably, perceived stress emerged as a significant mediator, exacerbating insomnia symptoms. These findings are consistent with the Diathesis–Stress Model, suggesting that internet addiction may act as a vulnerability factor, with stress functioning as a critical environmental trigger for sleep disturbances. The study underscores the importance of addressing both internet addiction and stress in interventions aimed at mitigating insomnia among college students. Further longitudinal research is warranted to explore these dynamics, considering additional psychological variables that may influence these relationships.