What Is Internet Addiction?
Have you ever wondered why you have been using the internet so much lately? Chances are that you have developed an internet addiction and it could have a lot of adverse effects on both your physical and mental health. What is an internet addiction though?
Internet addiction, also known as problematic internet use or compulsive internet use, refers to excessive, compulsive, or unhealthy use of the internet, leading to negative consequences in various aspects of life. It can manifest in different ways, such as spending excessive amounts of time online, preoccupation with the internet, inability to control internet use, neglecting other responsibilities, and experiencing negative emotions when unable to access the internet.
You might not know this but internet addiction is often associated with other mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Do you suffer from internet addiction? Take our assessment which is completely confidential and find out!
What Are The Symptoms Of Internet Addiction?
Yes, by taking our assessment you will find out if you have an addiction or not but are there other ways to know? Here are some symptoms of internet addiction that you need to know about:
- Preoccupation With The Internet: Constantly thinking about being online or planning the next time to be online.
- Excessive Use: Spending increasing amounts of time online to achieve satisfaction.
- Inability To Control Internet Use: Unsuccessful attempts to limit or stop internet use.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed when not online, which may be relieved by using the internet.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Neglecting work, school, or household responsibilities in favor of internet use.
- Risking Or Losing Relationships: Prioritizing online activities over face-to-face interactions, leading to strained relationships.
- Lying About Internet Use: Hiding the extent of internet use from friends, family, or therapists.
- Using The Internet To Escape Or Relieve Negative Moods: Using the internet as a way to escape problems or to relieve feelings of helplessness, guilt, or depression.
How To Overcome Internet Addiction?
Here are some ways that you can use to overcome internet addiction:
- Recognize The Problem: Acknowledge that you have an addiction to the internet and understand how it is impacting your life.
- Set Goals: Define clear and achievable goals for reducing your internet use. Start with small steps and gradually increase them over time.
- Limit Access: Reduce your access to the internet by setting specific times when you can go online and sticking to them. Use apps or tools to block access to certain websites or apps.
- Find Alternative Activities: Replace your internet use with other activities that you enjoy and that are beneficial to your well-being, such as exercising, reading, or socializing.
- Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your addiction. They can provide support and encouragement as you work to overcome it.
- Develop Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced lifestyle by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. This can help reduce the urge to use the internet excessively.
- Address Underlying Issues: Internet addiction is often linked to underlying emotional or psychological issues. Consider seeking therapy to address these issues and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
- Stay Positive: Recovery from internet addiction takes time and effort. Stay positive and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
FAQs
Question: How Does Internet Addiction Affects The Brain?
Internet addiction alters the volume of the brain. IAD shrinks the brain’s gray and white matter fibers which results in changes to emotional processing and brain functioning.
Question: Do Most People Suffer From Internet Addiction?
According to a survey, more than 8% of the world’s population suffers from internet addiction.
Question: What Are Some Of The Adverse Effects Of Internet Addiction?
Distress, Anger, Loss Of Control, Familial Conflicts. These are some of the negative effects of internet addiction.