What Is Internet Addiction?

Sometimes, the internet can be like a drug. It can make you feel great. First, you're getting lots of likes and retweets, and your followers are growing in number by the day, but then it starts to get out of hand: You're spending all your time scrolling through Instagram, even though you know you should be working on that project for work or doing laundry or something. Then it happens again and again you feel like there's no way out. You're trapped in a cycle of addictionand doesn't seem to be any way out of it. But don't worry! You're not alone, and here are some tips to help you kick your internet addiction once and for all! Internet addiction is a severe problem. It's not just that you can't stop checking your email or playing Candy Crush. It's more than just spending too much time on social media and getting distracted from your work. In fact, according to Dr. Jerald Block, a psychiatrist in Portland, Oregon, internet addiction is generally of three types: excessive gaming and email/text messaging. Further, he said all three types share four components: excessive use, withdrawal, tolerance (for the costs of the activity) and negative repercussions. A severe medical condition can negatively impact your health and quality of life if left untreated. It is not something that you can "grow out of" on your own. Many people mistakenly believe that if internet addiction exists, it's only a problem for kids and teens. However, most researchers now agree that it affects people of all ages. It is estimated that up to 5% of the global population may be affected by internet addiction. It often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. It is commonly treated with therapy May also prescribe medications in some cases.