The Relationship Between Cyberchondria and Sleepiness Levels Among Students at a Vocational School of Health Services

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the relationship between cyberchondria levels, sleepiness, and sleep quality among students at a Vocational School of Health Services and to reveal the potential implications of this relationship on students' overall well-being.Material and Methods: This cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted between 15 April 2024 and 01 July 2024 at The Relevant University Vocational School of Health Services. A total of 218 students voluntarily participated in the study. Data were collected via an online survey form. The Sociodemographic Information Form, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Cyberchondria Severity Scale - 12 (CSS -12) were used as data collection tools. Correlation and regression analyses were performed for statistical evaluation.Results: The mean age of the participants was 20.93 ± 4.59, and 80.7% were female. It was determined that 50.5% of the students had poor sleep quality (PSQI>5), and 20.2% experienced increased daytime sleepiness. A weak but statistically significant positive correlation was found between cyberchondria and sleep quality (r = 0.210; p = 0.0018), as well as between cyberchondria and daytime sleepiness (r = 0.211; p = 0.0017). Regression analysis showed that cyberchondria was significantly associated with sleep quality scores. Furthermore, students with income less than their expenses were found to have significantly poorer sleep quality compared to those with balanced income.Conclusion: The findings indicate that higher cyberchondria levels are associated with poorer sleep quality and greater daytime sleepiness among students receiving education about health. To protect students' sleep health in the digital age, it is recommended to conduct awareness campaigns regarding cyberchondria, provide sleep hygiene education, and consider socioeconomic risk factors.