PSYCHOEMOTIONAL DISORDERS AND FEATURES OF MICRONUTRIENT STATUS IN ATHLETES WITH INTERNET ADDICTION

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study on psychoemotional disorders and the characteristics of micronutrient status in athletes with different levels of internet addiction. The study involved 96 athletes aged between 16 and 21 years engaged in acyclic (game/team) and cyclic sports. The level of internet addiction was assessed using Kimberly Young’s Internet Addiction Test (IAT). Psychoemotional status was evaluated using the Spielberger–Khanin Anxiety Scale, Beck Depression Inventory, and the emotional burnout questionnaire. In addition, serum levels of vitamins D, B1, B6, and B12 were analyzed. The study revealed that moderate and severe forms of internet addiction were more common among athletes involved in acyclic (game) sports. As the severity of internet addiction increased, significant elevations in anxiety, depressive manifestations, and emotional burnout were observed among the examined athletes (p < 0.01). The most pronounced psychoemotional disturbances were identified in representatives of game sports disciplines. Analysis of micronutrient status demonstrated a decrease in the levels of vitamins D, B1, B6, and B12 with increasing severity of internet addiction. Micronutrient deficiencies were also more frequently detected in athletes involved in acyclic sports. The obtained data indicate a relationship between internet-addictive behavior, psychoemotional disturbances, and changes in micronutrient status among athletes. The study results confirm the necessity of early detection of internet addiction in athletes and the development of comprehensive preventive measures aimed at correcting psychoemotional disturbances and micronutrient imbalance.