Digital Loneliness and Internet Addiction: Educational Challenges for Mental Health

Abstract

Loneliness and internet addiction have become significant challenges to mental health in contemporary society. Loneliness, defined as a subjective feeling of discrepancy between desired and actual social relationships, is witnessing a worrying global increase, with serious consequences for mental and physical health. Simultaneously, internet addiction, characterized by excessive and compulsive use that disrupts daily functioning, is on the rise, especially among adolescents and young adults. These two phenomena are often interconnected; lonely individuals may use the internet to fulfil social needs, which can lead to addiction, while internet addiction can increase feelings of loneliness due to withdrawal from real-life social interactions. The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between loneliness and internet addiction among individuals aged 18 to 35. We have developed our own measurement instrument, tailored to the specific needs of the research, using elements from the UCLA Loneliness Scale and the Internet Addiction Test. We expect that the results will contribute to a better understanding of the dynamics between loneliness and internet addiction and provide empirical data for the development of effective preventive and intervention programs. In the context of increasing digitalization and changes in the way social interaction occurs, understanding these phenomena is crucial for improving individuals' mental health and well-being.