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Caffeine Intake Mediates the Relationship Between Problematic Overstudying and Psychological Distress.
Oliwia Kosecka1, Edyta Charzyńska2, Stanisław K Czerwiński1
1Institute of Psychology, University of Gdańsk, 80-309 Gdansk, Poland.
Nutrients
|September 13, 2025
Summary
Problematic overstudying in university students is linked to higher caffeine consumption, which in turn increases perceived stress, anxiety, and depression. Limiting caffeine intake is recommended for student mental health.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Problematic overstudying, akin to study addiction, is linked to high stress and anxiety in students.
- Caffeine, a stimulant, is often used by students to enhance performance, potentially exacerbating stress and anxiety.
- This study investigated caffeine's mediating role in the link between compulsive studying and psychological distress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the mediating role of caffeine consumption in the relationship between problematic overstudying and psychological distress.
- To understand how caffeine intake influences perceived stress, anxiety, and depression in students with compulsive study habits.
Main Methods:
- Two samples of university students (N=436 and N=3421) were surveyed.
- Validated scales measured study addiction, perceived stress, and average daily caffeine consumption.
- Statistical analysis explored the mediating effect of caffeine on the relationship between overstudying and psychological distress.
Main Results:
- Caffeine consumption partially mediated the link between problematic overstudying and perceived stress in both samples.
- Compulsive studying correlated with higher caffeine intake, which was associated with increased perceived stress.
- In the larger sample, caffeine intake also mediated the relationship between problematic overstudying and anxiety/depression.
Conclusions:
- Excessive caffeine use in students with problematic overstudying may worsen anxiety and mood disorders.
- Reducing caffeine intake and promoting rest are advised for improving student mental health.
- Interventions should address both compulsive studying behaviors and excessive stimulant use.
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