Is Internet Addiction Considered a Mental Disorder?

Did you know that about 40% of Indian parents have admitted that their children between 9 and 17 are severely addicted to smartphones? It might seem like a completely normal thing permanently to be attached to your phone. However, when the mindless scrolling of notifications and social media sites turns a bit more compulsive, it might be time to accept that you might have an internet addiction disorder.

Do we live in a technological era, or are we technological slaves to a far greater master? India is ranked second among the many countries where internet users reach millions. However, the increase in access to the internet has exposed people from different age groups in the country to a threatening situation of internet addiction.

In this blog, we will learn about internet addiction disorder, the negative effects of internet addiction on mental health, its causes, and much more. If you find someone seeking help for internet addiction, Jagruti Rehab Centre offers assistance to individuals looking for help.

What is Internet Addiction Disorder?

IAD, a behavioural addiction, is commonly known as Internet Addiction Disorder. Another term for this addiction is cyber addiction, which refers to excessive engagement with the online world. Since 2001, global internet users have increased to 1000%.

Due to the widespread use of the internet, most people face the repercussions of internet addiction. Some people might experience a loss of control when it comes to the time that they spend on the internet.

These people often tend to prioritize the online world above all the other important commitments that they have. Work, family, fun, and other things come secondary to their addiction. The obsession of a person with the internet can hurt their daily life. Not to mention that it can also impact their roles, responsibilities, relationships, and mood as well. That is one of the main reasons it is considered a significant disorder in the medical world.

Speculations are being made about whether IAD is a legitimate mental disorder. Still, it has not yet been recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders as a proper mental disorder. There have been similarities between the symptoms of cell phone addiction or nomophobia and IAD.

What Are the Causes of Internet Addiction?

As per statistics, around 8% of the entire global population is addicted to the internet. Of course, there could be many reasons for that. However, we can only assume that the over-dependence of people on technology and social media platforms is some of the significant reasons. On that note, here are some leading causes of internet addiction.

1. Social Media

Different social media sites such as Facebook and Instagram elevate the dopamine levels in the person’s brain, thus leading them to seek more. Hence, this is one of the significant reasons for internet addiction.

2. Social Issues

Some people might have a difficult time having face-to-face conversations. For them, an online world is more realistic and escapable. This dependence on the internet for interactions with people can sometimes cause addiction.

3. Online Games

Another huge factor contributing to the spread of internet addiction is online gaming. More than 12% of teen boys are addicted to online video games.

Internet Addiction Symptoms

Internet addiction might not be officially recognized as a mental health disorder, but work is still happening. However, there aren’t any apparent symptoms that can precisely define internet addiction disorder in people. Some traits have been identified, thanks to proper research, and these traits are mentioned below:

• Excessive use of the internet
• Increased tolerance to online content
• Withdrawal to real-world scenarios
• Negative outlook toward the livelihood

If you notice any of these symptoms in someone you know, contact the best mental hospital in Mumbai. Jagruti Rehab Centre is one location where people suffering from internet addiction can receive help.

Adverse Effects of Internet Addiction

There are so many problems that can be caused due to internet addiction, and some of these problems are mentioned below:

• Cyberbullying
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Cybercrimes
• ADHD
• Bipolar disorder
• Suicide risk
• Substance use disorder
• Insomnia

Types of Internet Addiction

Despite not being recognized as a formal diagnosis, three different types of internet addiction have been identified. Many researchers and clinicians tend to argue that these addiction types are not just due to the internet but because of the harmful elements sometimes found on the internet. Yet, it seems plausible to provide information about these different types of internet addiction.

1. Internet Gaming Disorder

According to research, there is an estimate that more than 160 million adults in America play online games. However, some experts claim that not all these games are addictive. While internet gaming disorder can be recognized as a behavioural addiction or repetitive behaviour, there is not much evidence to provide the diagnosis in the first place. Hence, internet gaming disorder is also not considered a complete mental health disorder.

2. Internet Gambling Addiction

As per the DSM-5, gambling can activate a similar response that people often experience with substance use. Net compulsions, also known as internet gambling addiction, are one of the more severe problems people tend to face and hence are an extreme concern amongst adults.

3. Cybersex Addiction

Online relationship addiction, also known as cybersex addiction, is the type of addiction that mainly occurs on networking sites and chat rooms. Compared to other forms of internet addiction, this can become a problem if excessive.

Wrapping Up,

The effect of online addiction or internet addiction is quite huge on people these days as we depend more on technology. So if you are seeking some help with internet addiction and looking for the best psychiatric hospital in Mumbai, contact Jagruti Rehab Centre.