Internet Addiction Disorder: The internet is becoming a necessary component of our everyday life in the digital age. The internet is used for everything from working, shopping, and entertainment to keeping in touch with loved ones. On the other hand, excessive internet use can become a major problem for some people and result in Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD). This article will cover IAD, its symptoms, and practical prevention and management strategies.
What is Internet Addiction Disorder?
The term “internet addiction disorder” refers to a condition in which people have trouble controlling their online usage, which has an adverse effect on their social, professional, and personal lives. It may entail a range of internet pursuits, such as social networking, gaming, shopping and browsing. Since Dr. Ivan Goldberg first used the term in 1995, it has come to be acknowledged as a significant problem.
Symptoms of Internet Addiction
Internet addiction can manifest in various ways. Here are some common signs:
- Excessive Time Online: Spending an inordinate amount of time on the internet, often at the expense of other activities.
- Neglect of Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or personal responsibilities due to internet use.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when not online.
- Tolerance: Increasing the time spent online to achieve the same level of satisfaction.
- Interference with Daily Life: Internet use disrupts social, occupational, or recreational activities.
Risk Factors
These factors could make the development of Internet addiction disorder more likely:
- Age: Young adults and adolescents are particularly vulnerable because of how much they use digital platforms.
- Psychological Factors: Anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses increase the risk for an individual.
- Environmental Factors: Lack of social support or stressful situations might make internet addiction worse.
Prevention and Management
A diversified strategy is needed to prevent and treat Internet addiction disorder:
- Set up restrictions for internet use that are obvious. Children and teenagers should limit their daily screen usage to no more than two hours, according to the American Academy of Paediatrics.
- Encourage pastimes and pursuits like reading, athletics, and outdoor time that don’t require devices. This may lessen the desire to use the internet.
- Friends and family can be very important. Promote candid conversations regarding internet usage and assist one another in cutting back on screen time.
- See a mental health professional for assistance if your internet addiction is interfering with your day-to-day activities. It has been demonstrated that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is beneficial in treating a variety of addictions, including internet addiction.
- Use technology to your advantage and control it. Use tools and applications, such as parental control software and screen time trackers, that are intended to keep an eye on and restrict screen time.
Disclaimer: This material, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Take the methods, and claims mentioned in this article as suggestions only; DNP India does not confirm or refute them. Consult a doctor before implementing any such suggestions/ treatment/medicine/diet.
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