Those who experience an internet addiction may experience a "high" while using the internet that is also found in individuals who compulsively shop. Familial and social factors may also play a role in developing an internet addiction, as individuals may turn to a virtual reality more often as a form of escapism. As an individual turns to the internet for feel-good emotions and continually receives that response, individuals will continue to return to that feel-good internet use, which will further complicate their addiction.
What are some of the signs and symptoms of internet addiction?
- Be preoccupied with the internet, even when not using it
- Use the internet for increasingly long periods of time
- Be unable to stop or cut back on internet use, even when trying to do so
- Feel moody or irritable as a result of trying to cut back on Internet use
- Use the internet to regulate one's mood or obtain relief from the negative effects of life's problems
- Risk becoming unemployed and losing romantic relationships/friendships due to spending more time online
While time spent on the internet is an important factor in determining if these behaviors are an addiction, the main thing to look for is what effect the internet is having on one's life.
What are the effects of problematic internet use?
- Employment or academic standing may start to drop
- Relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners may be negatively impacted
- Eating and food issues, depression, stress, and anxiety
- Disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue, and long-term sleep deprivation
What does therapy for internet addiction look like?
Internet addiction is not an official diagnosis currently but shares similarities with gambling addictions and impulse control disorders. The goal of treatment is not to have the individual completely abstain from using the internet; rather, the goal is to reframe an individual's relationship to the internet.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, self-help groups, group therapy, and family therapy have all been shown to improve symptoms and the lives of the individuals experiencing internet addictions. Twelve-step programs and social skills training may be treatment options for some. Additionally, when a mental health condition such as anxiety and depression arises from the internet addiction, it can be helpful for this additional mental health condition to be addressed first. Any other underlying conditions can be exposed during therapy, and treating these can help facilitate the recovery from the condition.
Here at Madrigal, we are committed to addressing internet addiction holistically to help you reach your best potential.
*This information was adapted from Good Therapy. Click here to learn more information.*