Internet use patterns may predict depression

New research suggests that the internet usage patterns of young adults may predict their risk of developing depression. The findings could be used to identify individuals who are most likely to benefit from a prescription to buy Paxil.

For the study, researchers from the Missouri University of Science and Technology analyzed internet data from more than 200 college students and screened each participant for depressive symptoms.

They found that those who showed signs of depression exhibited very particular patterns in their use of the internet. For example, these individuals were more likely to use file-sharing services and to randomly switch from one use to another. They also spent greater amounts of time sending emails or chatting online than non-depressed participants.

The researchers said their findings could be useful for diagnosing depression in all kinds of at-risk individuals, including military veterans and the elderly. This could make it much easier for physicians to spot patients who are likely to become depressed, enabling early interventions.