Information Centre

Internet Addiction

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Indeed internet is a new dimension and a great way to share information easily with our loved ones but it also makes us dependent on it so much so that even a single day spent without internet or computers makes us feel helpless. Even physical fatigue can be easily relieved by playing games or watching movies on our smart phone or computer while relaxing on a couch. Because our fingers can do all the work that previously legs or body was doing we are getting restricted to a sedentary lifestyle. Despite its advantages, internet and computers are making us lazier day by day and continue to influence our lives to a great extent in both positive and negative ways.

Addiction to substances like alcohol and tobacco seem common to the ear, but when we use the term internet addiction , the first thing that strikes our mind is,“ is it real?” Can a person actually get addicted to internet?

Recent studies and some well known researchers say internet can be addictive and youth of today may fall prey to internet addiction.

Internet Addiction, otherwise known as computer addiction, online addiction, or Internet addiction disorder (IAD), covers a variety of impulse-control problems, including: 

• Cybersex Addiction 
• Cyber-Relationship Addiction 
• Net Compulsions
  
• Information Overload
  
• Computer Addiction
  

The most common of these Internet addictions are cybersex, online gambling, and cyber-relationship addiction.

Warning signs of Internet Addiction

 

• Preoccupation with the Internet.  (Thoughts about previous on-line activity or anticipation of the next on-line session.)
• Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction.
• Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop Internet use.
• Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression, or irritability when attempting to cut down use of the Internet.
• Addictive use is also evidenced by angry and resentful outbursts at others who question or try to take away their time from using the Internet.
• On-line longer than originally intended.
• Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use.
• Lies to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet.
•  Internet is used as way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood.  (e.g. Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression

 

When to seek professional help?

If your relative or freind shows any of the above mentioned signs and symptoms, leading to academic decline and socio-occupational distress, it calls for professional help. 

Comprehensive team of mental health professionals including a Psychiatrist, clinical psychologist, rehabilitation psychologist would be the best option to take advice from.

Detailed examination by psychiatrist is necessary to assess for personality traits, family dynamics, or communication skills that influence the way people utilize the Internet. Detailed examination also helps to know if there is any psychiatric illness such as depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder that may play a role in the development of pathological Internet use.