Is Internet addiction real?

I recently watched an Indian film, titled “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan”. I found it to be very realistic and relatable. For those who have not seen it, it is a story about three best friends and how social media dictates their life choices. “If it is used correctly, it can be a space that enables people to have a voice and express,” said Zeenat Aman about Instagram on Koffee with Karan. According to Oxford Dictionaries, the internet is an international computer network connecting other networks and computers that allows people to share information around the world. Social media is a platform that allows that. Internet is also ChatGPT, Google, online streaming services, gaming, utility apps etc. It is difficult to define the boundaries of the internet.

Given all that we have read, heard and know, can Internet use be problematic? In countries such as the USA, China, South Korea, and various European nations, the recognition of internet addiction as a substantial public health threat has gained momentum. A study focusing on the Indian population in 2008 revealed an alarming statistic of 48 million active internet users. Considering the continuous growth in technology usage, it is reasonable to anticipate a surge in these numbers in the years that followed.

Outlining the difference between the two usage styles Let's differentiate between normal internet usage and compulsive internet usage. The very basic difference between the two is that normal internet consumption might look like long hours on the screen, but those hours are spent online for school or office work (with a few hours of free time browsing. Problematic internet use is a compulsive and overwhelming use of screens that interferes with your personal, professional, and social life. A similar experience like that of nomophobia. Let me break problematic internet usage further. Aka internet addiction disorder, compulsive internet use, problematic internet use and iDisorder. Internet addiction disorder is a behavioral disorder. Just like any other addiction, long hours can produce a dopamine rush.

What Internet Addiction it look like? Some of the physical symptoms are,

• Insomnia (inability or difficulty falling asleep without the device)

• Aches and stiffness in the body from lack of movement

• Appetite fluctuations. Sudden weight gain or loss

• Poor hygiene or changes in physical appearance

Some behavioral symptoms, of Internet addiction

• Disinterest in previously likable activities like café hopping or going to the park.

• Spending most of the awake hours online. According to are port published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, spending more than 2hours a day for children under 18 is considered problematic.

• Irritation or throwing tantrums when asked to step away from the device

• Lying about the time spent online

• Hiding the internet use Other note worthy symptoms,

• Attention and concentration are reduced

• Memory impairments

• Constantly Irritable mood

• Social withdrawal

• Employment or academic problems

• Strained interpersonal relationships

• Trouble distinguishing reality from fantasy

It affects the brain like any substance-related addiction. There is not a definite diagnostic criterion for internet addiction disorder. There is an ongoing debate about how best to classify behavior. The symptoms mentioned above are the most commonly and widely seen. There is a lot of confusion regarding what classifies and what doesn't classify as Problematic Internet use disorder. This confusion harbors a lot of uncertainty. If you feel that your child or you yourself are struggling with something similar, follow the below-stated steps,

• Start by keeping track. Note down the time you spend online for nonwork or nonacademic purposes.

• Replace those hours with a non-digital habit like reading, dancing, walking, cooking, or anything else you enjoy

• Note down the websites or apps that take most of your time.

• Block those apps and websites or install time restrictions.

• Ask others about what they have to say about your internet usage.

• Set goals and reflect on them daily.

Conclusion:

The blog sheds light on the real concerns surrounding internet addiction, differentiating between normal usage and problematic internet use. It emphasizes the physical and behavioral symptoms, providing insight into the impact on personal, professional, and social aspects of life. If you or someone you know is facing challenges with internet use, feel free to connect with us. please feel free to get in touch with your therapist to help you Transform Happily!