Global Problems Climate Change

Effects Of An Internet Addiction
An internet addiction can have many harmful effects on a person, both physically and emotionally. Body aches, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, insomnia, vision problems, and weight gain/loss are just some of the physical problems one may suffer as a result of an internet addiction. Emotional effects may include depression, dishonesty, anxiety, social isolation, aggression, and mood swings.
Internet Addictions And Mental Illness
A 2016 research study found that those who were deemed as having an internet addiction (using Dr. Young’s Internet Addiction Test) had significantly more trouble dealing with their day-to-day activities. This included life at home, work/school-related duties, and their ability to socialize in the real world. Individuals with these types of addictions also exhibited significantly higher amounts of depression and anxiety symptoms.
There is debate over whether a computer, cell phone, or online addiction is the cause or consequence of such mental health issues. ADHD symptoms, such as difficulty planning ahead, poor time management, and higher-than-average levels of attentional impulsivity, are also common among those with an internet addiction. Additionally, those with an addiction are more likely to have a co-occurring disorder that requires special care and treatment.
Treating An Internet Addiction
There is no one specific treatment that should be used to address an internet addiction. Depending on the severity of the addiction and the behaviors of the individual, different types of treatment would be effective. If someone you know is suffering from excessive internet abuse, the first step is to plan an intervention or to express your concerns with their behaviors.
Therapy is generally incorporated into the treatment of addiction along with any co-occurring disorders that may be present such as anxiety, depression, and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder. In some cases, medication may be used to manage symptoms of these underlying mental illnesses or to control intrusive thoughts about going online if other treatment options were not effective.
Internet addiction does not need to control the life of yourself or of someone you love. Consider doing more research to determine what the right way forward may be, but also be mindful of not waiting too long before taking action to fix the problem — time is a valuable thing, and perhaps not best sacrificed overmuch so to the technological tools that are meant to serve us (and not the other way around).