Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Exercise: Associations With Addiction.

Background: The prevalence of addictive disorders has surged globally, exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, leading to increased consumption of alcohol, nicotine, and engagement in other addictive behaviors. Considering this alarming trend, this study examined the prevalence and associated factors of addictive disorders-specifically alcohol use disorder, tobacco use disorder, and internet gaming disorder-using data from the 2021 National Mental Health Survey of Korea.

Methods: The study analyzed data from 5,511 adults aged 18-79, assessing socio-demographic information, mental diseases, physical activity levels, and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) through standardized interviews and self-reported questionnaires. Complex-sample logistic regression identified significant factors associated with addictive disorders.

Results: NSSI emerged as the most significantly associated factor, increasing the likelihood of addiction over 9-fold (odds ratio [OR], 9.26; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.52-18.93). While walking was associated with lower odds of addiction (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.96-1.00), moderate-to-high exercise (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.03) was linked to increased odds of addictive disorders.

Conclusion: Addictive behaviors, such as NSSI and excessive exercise, are significantly associated with an increased risk of addictive disorders.