In the 21st century, technology has become ubiquitous in our daily lives; almost every facet of our lives has been touched in some way by technology. Increasingly, we find ourselves attached to our screens and the online world, both in good ways and in bad. Unfortunately, with consistent and prolonged use of online services, it is possible to become overly obsessed with and addicted to the internet.
Online addiction is an increasingly studied phenomenon in the field of mental health, as it can have serious implications on a person’s psychological functioning and ability to function in day-to-day life. Individuals may compulsively use the internet for various activities like social media, gaming, e-commerce, online shopping, streaming movies, web surfing, chatting, etc. The danger of online addiction is that individuals may eventually forget how to engage in tasks off the computer and may even compromise their real-life relationships.
Online addiction can lead to a number of physical and psychological symptoms. Physically, individuals suffering from online addiction may experience changes in their sleeping and eating patterns, stiff muscles due to long hours of online activity, headaches, backaches, and exhaustion. Mentally, online addiction can lead to depression, anxiety, memory and concentration issues, restlessness, blurring of personal and professional boundaries, and frustration.
The causes of online addiction can be multifaceted and include an individual’s genetic makeup, psychological issues such as extreme levels of stress or loneliness, or psychological issues related to social media and gaming. Additionally, the increasing availability and affordability of mobile devices, increases the likelihood of developing an online addiction.
Despite the ubiquity of online addiction in the modern era, there are several tactics which can be employed to reduce the amount of time spent online. For instance, creating a set schedule for using online services, limiting access to the computer, limiting amount of time one can spend online, unplugging after certain hours, seeking online or in-person counseling, and blocking certain websites and apps. It is also important to keep one’s family and friends informed of the struggles one is facing with online addiction, and to seek outside resources or support in order to increase the chances of recovery.
Ultimately, online addiction is a serious issue, and if left untreated it can have serious consequences, including physical health problems, psychological issues, and social difficulties. It is important for individuals to be aware of this issue and equip themselves with the knowledge to effectively tackle their online addiction, with or without professional help. With proper guidance and treatment, individuals can regain their lives and engage in meaningful activities which can promote their physical and mental health.