Brief Report: Increased Addictive Internet and Substance Use Behavior During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in China

TLDR

The COVID‑19 pandemic and control measures may increase the risk of abusing addictive substances and behaviors. An online survey of 6,416 Chinese participants examined the relationship between the pandemic and addictive behavior. The survey found that 46.8 % of respondents reported increased internet dependence, 16.6 % increased usage hours, severe dependence rose from 3.5 % to 4.3 %, and relapses to alcohol and smoking were common (19 % and 25 %), with 32 % of regular drinkers and 20 % of regular smokers increasing consumption, underscoring a heightened risk for substance use disorders and internet addiction. Am J Addict 2020; 00:00–00.

Abstract

Background and Objectives The COVID‐19 pandemic and control measures may have increased the risk of abusing addictive substances as well as addictive behaviors. Methods We present an initial online survey in 6416 Chinese about the relation between the COVID‐19 pandemic and addictive behavior in China. Results During the COVID‐19 pandemic, 46.8% of the subjects reported increased dependence on internet use, and 16.6% had longer hours of internet use. The prevalence (4.3%) of severe internet dependence rose up to 23% than that (3.5%) before the COVID‐19 pandemic occurred, and their dependence degree rose 20 times more often than being declined (60% vs 3%). Relapses to abuse from alcohol and smoking abstinence were relatively common at 19% and 25%, respectively. Similarly, 32% of regular alcohol drinkers and 20% of regular smokers increased their usage amount during the pandemic. Conclusion and Scientific Significance These three coping behaviors (internet, alcohol, and smoking) during this COVID‐19‐related crisis appear to have increased the risk for substance use disorders and internet addiction. (Am J Addict 2020;00:00–00)