Prevalence of Internet Addiction and Its Association with Psychopathology among Medical Students in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Northern Kerala

Background: Overuse of the internet exacerbates emotional instability, stress, anxiety, and depression among medical students who are already susceptible due to pressure of performing well academically. Internet use and its association with psychopathology can be studied by using DASS- 42 (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale – 42). Our aim was to assess the prevalence of internet addiction and its association with psychopathology among medical students in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 MBBS students to determine the prevalence of internet addiction and its associated psychopathology over a period of 1 year. Assessment was made using internet addiction test [Young], the DASS-42 and socio-demographic proforma. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version. Internet addiction was expressed as frequency and percentage. Socio-demographic values were expressed as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and median. Prevalence of internet addiction and its associated psychopathology was assessed using chi square test. Probability value ‘p’ < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The prevalence of internet addiction among MBBS students was 52.75%. 33.75% had mild addiction, 12% had moderate addiction, and 7% had severe addiction. The prevalence of internet addiction was greater among females (54.16%) compared to males (50%). A higher prevalence of internet addiction was observed in the 22-year age group (61.4%). Students struggling with internet addiction exhibited symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, and there was a significant correlation between internet addiction and these mental health issues. Conclusion: There was a significant association between internet addiction and psychopathology (depression, anxiety, and stress) among medical students. Proactive awareness campaigns, possibly launched by academic institutions are necessary to educate medical students about the significance of limiting excessive internet use and tackling the root causes.