Considering the growing interest in the possible effects of internet’s addiction on adoles-cent’s mental health, this study aimed at exploring the psychological correlates of social media and internet problematic use during the first year of the covid-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of secondary school students (N = 258); participants were asked to complete an online survey, investigating social media addiction (BSMAS), self-esteem (RSES), feelings of isolation (CSIQ-A) and anxiety (STAI-Y). Data analysis (descriptive statistics, correlational and regression analyses) was conducted through XLSTAT software ©. An additional ad hoc questionnaire was administrated. Findings showed that the 11% of the participants were significantly addicted to social media, mostly females (59%). Gender represented an exposure factor for the hours spent on social media and the checking activity while performing other daily activities. Significant correlations emerged between the self-report measure of social media addiction and self-esteem and anxiety. Low scores at RSES corresponded to higher checking activity, hours spent on social networks, and playing videogames that were investigated as supplementary indicators of addiction with ad hoc questionnaire. The regression analysis showed just two predictors of social media addiction, gender (female) and trait anxiety. Limitations and implications of the study were argued in order to give some indications for future programs.

Chronic pain (CP) affects about 30% of the global population and poses significant challenges to individuals and healthcare systems worldwide. The interactions between physiological, psychological, and social factors are crucial in the onset and development of CP conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of mindfulness-based intervention, examining its impact on perceived stress (PSS), depression and anxiety (BDI-II, PGWBI/DEP, SAS, STAI Y), sleep quality (PSQI), and mindfulness abilities (MAAS) in individuals with CP. Participants (N = 89, 84.3% female) underwent one of two diagnoses [fibromyalgia (FM) or low back pain (LBP)] and took part in an MBSR intervention. The mindfulness program proved effective in reducing PSQI scores (F = 11.97; p < 0.01) over time, independently of the type of diagnosis. There was also a marginal increase in trait mindfulness as measured by MAAS (F = 3.25; p = 0.07) in both groups. A significant difference between the two groups was found for the effect on PSS: F (1,87) = 6.46; p < 0.05. Mindfulness practice also reduced anxiety in FM and depressive symptoms in LBP, indicating a reduction in psychological distress among participants. Our findings suggest that mindfulness-based interventions may offer promising avenues for personalized pain management in clinical settings.