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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of internet addiction on perceived stress and well-being among full-time working professionals. The research assesses the prevalence of internet addiction, its relationship with stress, and its influence on mental, emotional, and physical well-being. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using standardized scales, including the Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4), and WHO-5 Well-being Index. Data were collected from 129 full-time professionals aged 24–45 years in India, using stratified random sampling. Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive association between internet addiction and perceived stress, supporting the hypothesis that higher internet addiction levels contribute to increased stress. Regression analysis demonstrated a significant negative impact of internet addiction on well-being, indicating that excessive internet use deteriorates overall well-being. An independent samples t-test showed that male professionals exhibited higher internet addiction levels compared to females, with a statistically significant difference. The findings highlight the psychological risks associated with excessive internet usage, particularly among male professionals, and its detrimental effects on stress and well-being. The study underscores the need for organizational interventions, such as digital detox programs, awareness initiatives, and work-life balance strategies, to mitigate internet addiction’s negative impact. These insights contribute to workplace policies aimed at enhancing employee mental health and productivity in the digital era..