Many people use the Internet on a daily basis for work, playing games, social media, and so much more. People shop online and make transactions on the Internet. When a person becomes addicted to the Internet, he or she has developed a habit they continue to do even though it brings harmful consequences to them. The brain changes chemically and physiologically when a person has an addiction.
Internet addiction interferes with relationships by causing a person to devote most or all of his or her time online. A person with an Internet addiction chooses to stay home and avoids social situations. He or she develops emotional attachments to the online friends and virtual world they make up.
A person with an Internet addiction is enjoying all the aspects of socializing through chat rooms, group forums, social media, or other activities. Some spend endless hours researching a topic of interest or blogging. People with an Internet addiction use a fantasy world to meet people online instead of developing real-life human connections. A person with an Internet addiction may also have a mental health condition such as anxiety or a social disorder.
Signs of Internet addiction include:
- Spending more time online than intended
- Failure to control behavior
- Using the Internet as a way to escape from problems
- Lying about Internet involvement
- Neglecting significant relationships
- Craving more time online
Internet addiction affects a person’s family, academics, savings, and occupation. Individuals with an Internet addiction spend more time in solitude and spend less time with real-life relationships. Internet addiction can be disruptive by causing arguments with loved ones.
Christina Gregory, PhD wrote for PSYCOM, “The most commonly identified categories of Internet Addiction include gaming, social networking, email, blogging, online shopping, and inappropriate Internet pornography use.” She also added, “Some evidence suggests that if you are suffering from Internet Addiction Disorder, your brain makeup is similar to those that suffer from a chemical dependency, such as drugs or alcohol.”
A person with an Internet addiction should get professional help. A mental health evaluation may be required to treat any underlying mental illnesses. People can recover from an Internet addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you are not alone. Cypress Lake Recovery offers treatment for addiction in a peaceful, remote, oxygen-rich environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204
