Internet Addiction and Depression among Syrian College Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Problematic internet use (PIU) or internet addiction has become increasingly prevalent, and concerns about its impact on mental health and social functioning have grown. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PIU among Syrian university students and its relationship with their demographics, internet user behavior, and mental health. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical students in Syrian government universities between April 14 and April 24, 2022. The survey included the Beck Depression Inventory and the Internet Addiction Scale. Results: Out of 2891 participants, 75.2% were female, with an average age of 21.87. The average IAT score was 49.4, and the overall prevalence of PIU was 90.6%. Furthermore, 93.1% of participants displayed possible signs and symptoms of depression. Separation was associated with a higher incidence of PIU (p = 0.000). PIU was significantly linked with physical abuse (P = 0.001) and mental stress (P = 0.000). Online gaming (p = 0.005) and YouTube video viewing (p = 0.000) were strongly associated with PIU. Conclusion: The study found a high rate of internet addiction among Syrian medical students, with those experiencing mental health problems and depression symptoms more likely to be internet addicts. To prevent PIU, students should be encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports, and awareness programs should be enhanced to highlight the negative effects of internet addiction.