Excessive internet use may be contributing to rising stress levels, declining moods and difficulties in meeting everyday responsibilities, according to new research published in the journal PLOS One. The research examined 900 adults in Germany and found a clear connection between problematic internet use and poorer mental wellbeing. Researchers defined problematic internet use as excessive engagement with online applications that results in distress or interferes with daily functioning. “Stress and a negative mood leads to a higher temptation” to use the internet, Oelker said, adding that excessive online activity can then worsen those feelings. Licensed clinical psychologist Parin Kamdar said problematic internet use shares characteristics with eating disorders, addiction and obsessive compulsive disorder, making it challenging to overcome because the behaviour often becomes automatic.