Are You An Internet Addict?

by HN Porter of tech4today.net

There is no definite definition of internet addiction but if you have been wondering, Yes! Internet addiction is a real thing. According to  addictionrecov.org, internet addiction is described as an impulse control disorder, which does not involve the use of an intoxicating drug and is very similar to pathological gambling. For most the addiction comes with an emotional attachment to their screens and their online interactions which normally results in neglecting of the offline life.
Internet addiction has been debated over the years, questioning its realness, however in 1995, Dr.Ivan Goldberg, M.D.  satirically theorized it as a disorder.
With at least  3.58 billion internet users worldwide and a wide range of internet deals available, internet addiction is an alarming disorder in this age which can go undetected when proper attention is not applied.

Here are some warning symptoms of internet addiction as listed by addictionrecov.org:
- Preoccupation with the Internet.  (Thoughts about previous online activity or anticipation of the next on-line session.)
- Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order 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 use of the Internet.
- On-line longer than originally intended.
- Jeopardized or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use.
- Lies to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet.
- Use of the Internet is a way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood.  (e.g. Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.)

These can all be categorized into two groups, Emotional signs, and Physical signs.

 Some of the emotional symptoms are(as listed by psycom.net):
- Depression
- Dishonesty
- Feelings of guilt
Anxiety
- Feelings of Euphoria when using the Computer
- Inability to Prioritize or Keep Schedules
- Isolation
- No Sense of Time
- Defensiveness
- Avoidance of Work
- Agitation
- Mood Swings
- Fear
- Loneliness
- Boredom with Routine Tasks
- Procrastination

Some of the physical symptoms are (as listed by psycom.net) :
- Backache
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Poor Nutrition (failing to eat or eating in excessively to avoid being away from the computer)
- Poor Personal Hygiene (e.g., not bathing to stay online)
- Neck Pain
- Dry Eyes and other Vision Problems
- Weight Gain or Loss

If you recognize yourself in the lists above, it is advisable to seek help from a Certified Addictions Counselor or any other trusted health professional.

If you would like to take an assessment test to check if you suffer from Internet addiction, you can do so at QUIZ

SOURCES: PSYCOM