UM Distinguished Professor gives talk on how internet addiction affects mental health

The University of Macau (UM) held a talk titled ‘Mental Health Challenges Caused by Internet Addiction’ today (28 October) as part of its University Lecture Series. The talk was delivered by Xiang Yutao, Distinguished Professor and head of the Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration in the UM Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS).

Speaking at the event, Chuxia Deng, dean of FHS, said that Prof Xiang’s research interests include mental health, psychiatric epidemiology, and evidence-based medicine. He also highlighted Prof Xiang’s academic and research achievements, including the publication of over 100 academic papers in international journals, which have received a combined total of over 40,000 citations.

During the talk, Prof Xiang pointed out that problematic internet use (PIU) has become a public health issue. He explained that internet addiction can lead to severe impairment of social and occupational functioning, affecting both interpersonal interactions and the fulfilment of responsibilities in real life. Notably, the most commonly affected age groups are adolescents and young adults. Prof Xiang also presented some evidence-based intervention and prevention strategies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and family therapy. In addition, Prof Xiang engaged with the audience during the Q&A and discussion session, which was moderated by Zhang Xuanjun, assistant dean of FHS.

UM holds a talk as part of its University Lecture Series

Xiang Yutao

Chuxia Deng

The Q&A and discussion session