Discover how staying connected online reduces depression and boosts well-being in older adults, offering hope for better mental health strategies across the globe! Study: Positive association between Internet use and mental health among adults aged ≥50 years in 23 countries . Image Credit: Halfpoint / Shutterstock In a recent study published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour , a group of researchers examined the relationship between Internet use and mental health outcomes among adults aged ≥50 years across 23 countries, using statistical analyses to inform public health strategies. Background Mental health issues among middle-aged and older adults are a global public health concern, with about 14% of those aged 55 and over experiencing conditions like depression.
Mental health includes overall well-being, enabling individuals to handle life’s stresses and contribute to their communities. Internet use has become an important social determinant, offering access to health information, social connections, and entertainment, positively impacting mental health. However, research findings are mixed, and most studies focus on single countries, overlooking cross-national differences.
Additionally, the interaction between Internet use and genetic predispositions in influencing mental health outcomes remains underexplored. Therefore, further research is needed to understand these associations across diverse populations and inform effective mental health promotion strategies. A.
