Internet addiction, also known as internet use disorder (IUD) or problematic internet use (PIU), refers to excessive and compulsive use of the internet that interferes with daily life, work, and relationships. Like other forms of addiction, internet addiction can lead to negative consequences and significantly impact a person's physical and mental health.
◾️Characteristics of Internet Addiction:
📍Excessive Use: Spending a significant amount of time online, often to the detriment of other important activities like work, school, or social interactions.
📍Social Isolation: Preferring online interactions over face-to-face interactions, leading to social withdrawal.
📍Loss of Control: Feeling unable to control or stop internet use despite efforts to cut back.
📍Negative Consequences: Experiencing negative effects on physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and academic or job performance.
◾️Common Types of Internet Addiction:
📍Social Media Addiction: Obsessively using social media platforms, like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok.
📍Online Gaming Addiction: Excessive and compulsive gaming, often in massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) or other online gaming communities.
◾️Treatment and Management:
Treating internet addiction involves a combination of therapies and behavioral interventions. Some of the common approaches include:
📍Support Groups: Joining support groups or therapy sessions with others facing similar challenges.
📍Setting Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries and limiting internet use to specific times and activities.
📍Engaging in Offline Activities: Encouraging participation in physical activities, hobbies, or social interactions outside the digital world.
It's essential to remember that internet usage itself is not inherently bad; it becomes problematic when it starts to interfere with a person's daily life, responsibilities, and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with internet addiction, seeking professional help is crucial to address and manage the issue effectively.
Yours, Kathy Morris
The United State of America