¿Do online purchases increase stress? New study reveals significant links

A recent study reveals that online shopping could be linked to a significant increase in stress levels, compared to other digital activities such as reading news or checking emails. The research, published in a scientific journal specializing in digital health, was led by researcher Mohammad Belal, from Aalto University in Finland. According to the findings, the increase in time spent shopping online and using social media is related to higher levels of self-reported stress, regardless of the device used. For the analysis, scientists monitored the digital habits of nearly 1,500 people in Germany for seven months. Using tracking software, millions of records of web browsing and application usage were collected, which were compared with periodic assessments of the participants’ emotional state.

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The results indicate that those who spent more time on e-commerce platforms reported greater stress, both on computers and mobile phones. In contrast, activities such as reading emails, consulting news, or consuming other types of digital content were associated with lower levels of emotional tension. However, experts warn that the relationship is not conclusive. It is not yet clear whether online shopping generates stress or whether already stressed people resort to this type of activity as a form of emotional coping. The study’s authors emphasize the importance of further investigating the impact of internet use on mental health and point out that imposing general restrictions could be counterproductive, as some digital platforms can also provide support in times of pressure. Also can The research opens the debate on the need to promote a more conscious and balanced use of digital tools, especially in a context where e-commerce is part of everyday life.