In India, there are a whopping 759 million people using the internet in 2023. Think of it like this: The internet is becoming a big part of everyone’s life, and it’s going to get even bigger. But here’s something to think about: Can some people become addicted to the internet, just like how some people can’t stop eating candy or playing video games? The answer is yes.
Now, let’s break it down a bit. There’s a place called a rehab center in Siliguri, which is like a hospital for people who need help because they can’t stop doing something. They say addiction is when someone can’t stop doing the same thing over and over, like checking their phone or playing games online. It’s almost like their brain gets stuck on it, and they keep needing to do it, even if it’s causing problems. So, addiction isn’t just about things like alcohol or drugs; it can happen with anything, even the internet.
Does that mean the Internet is bad? Definitely not, but addiction is. Too much of anything is the first unconscious step toward developing a habit. Here are the symptoms of Internet addiction that you should not overlook and also know the cure if you think you are already addicted.
What Is Internet Addiction?
Is spending a lot of time on the internet, watching videos, and scrolling through social media, automatically making you addicted? Not really. But things change when these activities start getting in the way of your daily life. Let me explain.
Imagine you have a college project to finish, but instead of working on it, you decide to binge-watch a series online. This is where the trouble begins. When you start neglecting important tasks like your college work and choose to spend your time online instead, that’s when addiction can become a problem.
Internet addiction comes in different forms. It could be compulsive online shopping, spending hours gaming, constantly seeking information, watching too much pornography, or even being addicted to online dating. So, it’s not just about being on the internet; it’s about how it affects your life outside the screen.
Signs And Symptoms
Internet addiction shows various changes in the behavior, physique, and social attributes of an individual
Behavioral Symptoms of Internet Addiction:
Delaying important life activities: This means putting off things that are really important, like homework, chores, or spending time with family and friends, just to keep using the internet.
Anger or irritation: Getting really mad or annoyed when someone tries to limit your internet time or when the internet isn’t working well.
Dishonest about your internet use: Sometimes, people with internet addiction might lie about how much time they spend online or what they do online.
Continuous scrolling despite the realization: This means you keep scrolling through websites or apps even when you know you should stop. It’s like you can’t help yourself.
Physical Symptoms of Internet Addiction:
Fatigue: Feeling super tired because you stay up late using the internet, and it messes with your sleep.
Insomnia: Having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep because you’ve been using the internet too much, especially at night.
Digestive problems: Your tummy might feel funny or upset because you’re spending so much time online that you forget to eat regular meals or snacks.
Change in physical appearance: Sometimes, when people are addicted to the internet, they might not take good care of themselves, and it can show in how they look.
Unintended weight alterations: You might gain or lose weight because you’re either eating too much while using the internet or not eating enough because you’re so focused on it.
Mental & Social Symptoms of Internet Addiction:
Poor concentration: It’s hard to focus on things like schoolwork or conversations with friends and family because your mind is always thinking about the internet.
Mostly in the fantasy world: Spending more time in online games or other virtual worlds than in the real world, where you interact with real people and do real things.
Deprived Memory: Forgetting stuff more often because your brain is too busy with online stuff.
Social isolation: This means you start avoiding your friends and family in real life because you’d rather be online.
Employment problems: If you have a job when you’re older, internet addiction can make it hard to do well at work and can even cost you your job.
Relationships not working out: Your friendships and romantic relationships might suffer because you’re always on the internet instead of spending time with the people who care about you.
Academic issues: Your schoolwork might start to suffer because you’re not paying enough attention to your studies, and this can lead to lower grades.
How to Cure Internet Addiction
- Recognize the Problem: The first step is to admit that you have an internet addiction. This can be tough, but it’s essential to acknowledge it before you can make positive changes.
- Prioritize Real-Life Activities: Make a list of important real-life activities like school, hobbies, spending time with family and friends, and prioritize them over excessive internet use.
- Find Alternatives: Replace the time you spend online with other activities you enjoy or that are good for you. This could be sports, reading, drawing, or learning a new skill.
- Seek Support: Talk to a trusted adult or a rehab center of your locality about your internet addiction. They can provide guidance, support, and strategies to help you overcome it.
- Practice Self-Control: When you feel the urge to spend too much time online, remind yourself of your goals and the negative consequences of internet addiction.
- Unplug Regularly: Designate “tech-free” times, such as during meals or an hour before bedtime, to help you disconnect from the internet and focus on other things.
- Stay Busy: Fill your schedule with activities that don’t involve screens. This will keep you occupied and reduce the temptation to go online excessively.
- Build a Supportive Network: Surround yourself with friends and family who understand your goals and can encourage you to stay on track.
Getting Help from Best Rehab Centre Siliguri
If you or your loved one is going through the signs and symptoms of compulsive internet addiction, it is time for you to show some care. Just like any other ailment, internet addiction needs proper treatment and intervention. Despite scolding or making them feel useless, you must spread love and awareness. Help those who are suffering by taking the right steps. Rehab Centre Siliguri provides aid for every kind of addiction with the inner healing of the individual. The professionals conduct talk therapies and recover all the associated mental conditions as an extensive part of the treatment plan.
