Preventing problematic internet use during the COVID-19 pandemic: Consensus guidance

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Public Health
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic prompted global lockdowns and heightened stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Individuals may turn to psychoactive substances and reinforcing behaviors (e.g., gambling, gaming) as coping strategies.
• Information and Communications Technology (ICT) became essential for daily life, work, and social connection during the pandemic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the risks of problematic substance use and reinforcing behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To highlight the increased reliance on and potential risks of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) usage.
• To provide practical recommendations for mitigating these risks.

Main Methods:

• Consensus guidance development.
• Review of psychological impacts of pandemic-related stressors.
• Analysis of behavioral patterns and ICT usage during crisis periods.

Main Results:

• Pandemic-related stressors significantly increased the propensity for maladaptive coping mechanisms.
• Vulnerable individuals are at risk of developing problematic usage patterns of ICT.
• Non-pathological ICT use is adaptive for most, but excessive use poses risks.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic created a high-risk environment for substance abuse and behavioral issues.
• Problematic ICT use is a growing concern, particularly among vulnerable populations.
• Recommendations are needed to address and prevent excessive technology and substance use during crises.