Associations between digital amnesia, sleep disorders and somatic symptoms among youth

Abstract

Digitalization has accelerated and improved the accuracy of information processing. It has changed society into a connected world. The spread of COVID-19 changed individuals' daily routines drastically over the past two years, especially among youth due to the temporary closure of colleges and universities. The usage of digital devices by youth has increased as a result of online learning platforms, leading to digital reliance and a negative impact on their sleep quality. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate (1) the association between digital amnesia, sleep disorders and somatic symptoms, (2) the difference in digital amnesia based on the demographic categories, (3) the effect of digital amnesia and sleep disorders on somatic symptoms. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 326 young people aged 18 to 25 years. Data was collected from participants using the Digital Amnesia Scale, Sleep Disorders Symptom Checklist (SDS-CL-17), and Somatic Symptom Disorder-B Criteria Scale (SSD-12). There was a significant association between digital amnesia, sleep disorders, and somatic symptoms among youth. Youth differed significantly in their digital amnesia based on their demographic categories such as gender and family type. Somatic symptoms among youth were significantly impacted by digital amnesia and sleep disorders. Youth could overcome their digital amnesia by utilizing digital devices effectively. Youth could also be sensitized about adverse effects of digital amnesia. Taking a digital break could help them improve their quality of sleep and reduce somatic symptoms.