Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/331694 
Year of Publication: 
2025
Series/Report no.: 
IZA Discussion Papers No. 18130
Publisher: 
Institute of Labor Economics (IZA), Bonn
Abstract: 
We examine the causal impact of high-speed internet on adult mental health using administrative data from Belgium. We exploit predetermined telecommunications infrastructure and broadband technology's distance-sensitive nature for identification. Our difference-in-differences estimates show internet increased mental health-related disability insurance claims by 0.054 percentage points—a 31% increase relative to the control group. These findings are supported by increased antidepressant use at the municipality level. Results point to a work-related mechanism: effects are concentrated among knowledge workers and those in high work-from-home potential jobs. Time-use data show a substitution from leisure to work and less social interaction on weekends.
Subjects: 
mental health
internet
disability insurance
employment
JEL: 
H55
I1
J2
L86
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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