Exploring the relationship between excessive internet use and sleep quality and the implications of this relationship: a systematic review
Simone Gazale, Natia Horato, Antonio E. Nardi, Anna Lucia King
Abstract
Background
The internet has become an important element in people's lives. The increasing use of smartphones and other electronic devices has promoted an increase in digital interactions, resulting in significant problems in the field of mental health. However, one of the implications of excessive internet use is impaired sleep quality, especially among users who use the internet before bed.
Methods
We searched the PubMed, Web of Science and PsycINFO databases to identify articles that addressed the association between excessive internet use and sleep quality. Studies in which participants had a previous diagnosis of insomnia or used psychoactive substances were excluded.
Results
The initial search resulted in a total of 3269 articles, 25 of which met the inclusion criteria. The results suggested an association between excessive internet use and sleep quality.
Conclusions
Excessive internet use significantly compromises sleep quality, directly affecting users' mental and physical health. This study highlights the importance of strategies that promote digital education to raise awareness about the risks of excessive use of screens.
Keywords
Submitted date:
04/09/2025
Accepted date:
07/23/2025