Internet addiction disorder

A behavioral addiction characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges, or behaviors regarding internet use

Excessive internet use can lead to disrupted sleep patterns.

Graph showing the increase in internet use over time.

People often become absorbed in their devices, leading to social isolation.

Internet addiction can manifest in various forms, including compulsive browsing and gaming.

Internet addiction disorder (IAD) is a behavioral addiction characterized by excessive or poorly controlled preoccupations, urges, or behaviors regarding internet use that lead to impairment or distress. It is a relatively new phenomenon that has emerged with the widespread availability of the internet and digital devices.

Overview

Internet addiction disorder is not officially recognized as a disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but it is a subject of ongoing research and debate among mental health professionals. The disorder is often compared to other behavioral addictions, such as gambling addiction, and shares similar characteristics, including the inability to control use, withdrawal symptoms, and negative impacts on daily life.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of internet addiction disorder include:

• Preoccupation with the internet
• Increased time spent online 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 or stop internet use
• Staying online longer than intended
• Jeopardizing or risking the loss of significant relationships, job, educational, or career opportunities because of internet use
• Lying to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the internet
• Using the internet as a way of escaping from problems or relieving a dysphoric mood (e.g., feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, depression)

Causes

The causes of internet addiction disorder are multifaceted and can include:

• Psychological factors: Individuals with underlying mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD may be more prone to developing internet addiction.
• Social factors: Lack of social support, loneliness, and social isolation can contribute to excessive internet use as individuals seek connection online.
• Biological factors: Some studies suggest that internet addiction may be linked to changes in brain chemistry, similar to those seen in substance addiction.

Treatment

Treatment for internet addiction disorder often involves a combination of therapies, including:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to internet use.
• Family therapy: Addresses family dynamics that may contribute to or be affected by internet addiction.
• Support groups: Provide a community for individuals struggling with internet addiction to share experiences and coping strategies.
• Medication: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to address underlying mental health issues such as depression or anxiety.

Prevention

Preventive measures for internet addiction disorder include:

• Setting limits on internet use
• Encouraging offline activities and hobbies
• Promoting healthy social interactions
• Educating individuals about the risks of excessive internet use

Also see

• Digital detox
• Social media addiction
• Video game addiction
• Behavioral addiction
• Technology and mental health