A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Duisburg-Essen has found a correlation between excessive internet use and increased stress levels, poorer mood, and neglect of other important activities. The research, published in the journal PLOS One, surveyed 900 German adults in 2025 who had engaged in activities such as gaming, pornography use, social networking, or online shopping at least once in the past year.

Participants were categorized based on the frequency and intensity of their online activity into groups labeled as pathological, risky, or non-problematic users. Pathological use was defined as excessive engagement with online applications to the point of functional impairment or distress. Over a two-week period, participants completed daily assessments reporting their mood, stress levels, temptation to use the internet problematically, overall time spent online, and the pleasure derived from it. They also noted whether other aspects of their lives were neglected due to internet use.

Findings revealed that individuals with more severe problematic internet use experienced worse moods, higher stress, longer durations online, and greater neglect of activities such as work, exercise, social interactions, or outdoor time. The study highlighted the role of temptation as a critical factor driving continued internet use despite its harmful effects. Feeling moments of pleasure and relief reinforced this behavior, creating a cycle where increased urge led to more use, which in turn heightened stress.

Co-author Andreas Oelker emphasized that it was the immediate impulse to go online, rather than mood or stress alone, that strongly influenced users’ behavior. He noted that understanding these urges is vital for designing better prevention and intervention strategies. The research suggests that helping individuals recognize and regulate temptation may be more effective than addressing stress or mood in isolation.

Co-author Silke M Müller pointed out that pathological internet use remains relatively rare and stressed that not all internet usage is detrimental. For most users, the internet provides enjoyment and stress relief without disrupting essential responsibilities or well-being-promoting activities. Müller noted the importance of maintaining balance and cautioned against systematic neglect of work, social life, or physical activity.

Previous studies have indicated that problematic internet use could be linked to changes in brain chemistry and activity, particularly among younger individuals, which may contribute to addictive behaviors. The study also referenced existing reports showing that problematic smartphone and social media use can negatively impact life satisfaction, job performance, and academic achievement.

Additionally, the research aligns with findings from UK regulators showing that the average adult spends roughly four and a half hours daily online, primarily through smartphones. Some evidence suggests that internet detox periods can lead to improvements in mood, sleep quality, and productivity, underscoring the potential benefits of moderated use.

Overall, the study underscores the complexity of internet use, highlighting its potential both as a source of enjoyment and as a factor in stress and functional impairment when usage becomes excessive or uncontrolled.