High Prevalence of Internet Addiction Among Nigerian Undergraduates Linked to Mental Health Consequences

Strategic Insights -

A study conducted in Lagos State, Nigeria, has found a high prevalence of internet addiction (IA) among undergraduates, with significant associations with depression, anxiety, and stress. The research, involving 830 students aged 18-24, used a structured questionnaire and identified predictors of IA, including institutional affiliation, living arrangements, purpose and timing of use, and duration of daily internet engagement.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalence of internet addiction was 73.3% among Nigerian undergraduates, with significant associations with depression, anxiety, and stress.
  • Institutional affiliation, living arrangements, purpose and timing of use, and duration of daily internet engagement were critical predictors of IA.
  • The study used the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) to assess the mental health consequences of IA.
  • The research was conducted in three public tertiary institutions in Lagos State, involving 830 undergraduates.
  • The study highlighted the need for context-sensitive, evidence-based interventions and for universities and policymakers to implement strategies that aim at promoting healthier internet usage and improving mental health services.
  • The study's findings underscore the importance of raising awareness about internet addiction and its impact on mental health.

Statistics:

  • 73.3% of Nigerian undergraduates in the study reported internet addiction.
  • The study involved 830 undergraduates aged 18-24.
  • The research used a structured questionnaire, incorporating the IAT and DASS-21 scales.
  • The study found significant correlations between internet addiction and depression (rs = 0.368), anxiety (rs = 0.359), and stress (rs = 0.401).

Sources:

  • The prevalence of Internet addiction and its impact on undergraduates' mental health in Lagos state, Nigeria. Journal of Public Health in Africa (2025,16(1):e1-e8). (journal website: http://www.publichealthinafrica.org).
  • AOSIS. Journal of Public Health in Africa. (publisher website: journal website).
  • https://doi.org/10.4102/jphia.v16i1.1254