Predictive Role of Internet Addiction and Perceived Social Support on Mental Health Among Undergraduate Students with Demographic Variations

Background: Internet addiction represents a growing mental health concern among undergraduate students, with significant implications for psychological well-being. The protective role of perceived social support in moderating these effects remains unclear. Objective: To examine the predictive role of Internet addiction and perceived social support on mental health outcomes among undergraduate students, with analysis of demographic differences. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 608 final-year undergraduate students from twelve government colleges in Hassan district, Karnataka, India. Data were collected using validated instruments including the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21), Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), and Social Provisions Scale (SPS). Multiple regression analyses examined predictive relationships. Results: Internet addiction significantly predicted increased depression (β=0.478, p<.001), anxiety (β=0.426, p<.001), and stress (β=0.382, p<.001), while negatively predicting well-being (β=-0.182, p<.001). Students using smartphones for 6+ hours daily demonstrated significantly higher psychological distress. Part-time working students and Arts stream students showed elevated mental health risks. Contrary to expectations, perceived social support showed no significant predictive relationships. Conclusions: Internet addiction emerges as a significant predictor of adverse mental health outcomes, with smartphone usage exceeding 6 hours daily representing a critical threshold. These findings necessitate targeted interventions addressing excessive Internet use and comprehensive support systems recognizing demographic vulnerabilities.