Internet Addiction, Sleep Quality, Depression, and Daytime Sleepiness in Nursing Students

Overview

This study investigated the relationship between internet addiction and daytime sleepiness in nursing students, revealing that sleep quality partially mediates this relationship. Additionally, depression was found to strengthen the link between internet addiction and sleep quality, highlighting complex psychological interactions.

Background

Daytime sleepiness is prevalent among college students, particularly nursing students who face demanding schedules including night shifts. Internet addiction, characterized by excessive and uncontrollable use, negatively impacts mental health and sleep quality. Prior research has established associations between internet addiction and daytime sleepiness, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Depression, common in nursing students due to academic and clinical pressures, may exacerbate these effects by influencing sleep quality.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Internet addiction positively correlates with increased daytime sleepiness among nursing students.
• Sleep quality partially mediates the relationship between internet addiction and daytime sleepiness.
• Depression moderates the relationship between internet addiction and sleep quality, strengthening this pathway.
• Nursing students exhibit higher vulnerability to depression and sleep disturbances due to clinical and academic stressors.
• Excessive internet use increases the likelihood of poor sleep quality by multiple folds, contributing to daytime sleepiness.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians and educators should be aware that internet addiction can impair sleep quality and increase daytime sleepiness in nursing students, potentially compromising academic and clinical performance. Screening for depression is important as it may intensify these effects. Interventions targeting internet use behaviors and mental health support could improve sleep quality and reduce daytime sleepiness in this population.

Conclusion

This study elucidates the psychological mechanisms linking internet addiction to daytime sleepiness in nursing students, emphasizing the mediating role of sleep quality and the moderating influence of depression. Addressing these factors may enhance student well-being and academic success.

References

1. Nowak et al. -- Relationship between internet addiction and daytime sleepiness
2. Singh et al. -- Internet addiction and sleep disturbances
3. DSM-5 -- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition