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NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsJuly 30, 2026Hillsborough

How Excessive Internet Use Affects Your Mood and Relationships

A new study of 900 adults suggests that problematic internet use is linked to higher stress, negative moods, and the neglect of daily responsibilities. Experts recommend identifying personal triggers and practicing delayed gratification to manage screen time habits.

mental healthinternet usagewell-beingpsychologyscreen time
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — News

Why It Matters

This research highlights a potential link between digital habits and mental health, suggesting that reducing screen time may improve personal well-being and social connections.

Key Facts

  • A study of 900 German adults found that problematic internet use is associated with increased stress and negative moods.
  • Problematic internet use is defined as excessive app usage that causes distress or impairment in daily life.
  • Researchers noted that stress and negative moods can increase the temptation to use the internet, creating a cycle that may worsen the situation.
  • The study is limited to adults and does not provide data on how internet usage affects children.
  • Experts suggest that problematic internet use shares behavioral similarities with addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
  • Psychologists recommend a 'five-minute rule' where individuals wait five minutes before giving in to the urge to go online, increasing the wait time with each occurrence.
  • Strategies for reducing screen time include planning screen-free blocks of time and disconnecting home routers during specific periods.

Who's Mentioned

personAndreas Oelker“Lead author of the study and doctoral student at the University of Duisburg-Esse”organizationPLOS One“The journal where the research study was published.”organizationUniversity of Duisburg-Essen“The academic institution where the study was conducted.”personSilke Müller“Postdoctoral research assistant and coauthor of the study.”personParin Kamdar“Licensed clinical psychologist based in Princeton, New Jersey.”other900“The number of German adults who participated in the study.”