Internet addiction can be like any other addiction. It has a compulsive nature in which individuals start to have strong urges about hopping on the internet, checking their cell phones and using computers for non-essential purposes. With all the apps and social media sites immediately accessible on smartphones, this contributes to the pervasive nature of internet addiction.
Researcher, Dr. Bert Wilt, found that there are often co-existing disorders with those that are addicted to the internet and cell phone apps. These conditions mostly include depression and anxiety disorders. Additionally, his study compared 25 individuals with internet addiction to 25 individuals that were addicted to alcohol. Surprisingly, the results show stark similarities.
Internet addiction affects individuals who have high rates of comorbitity (additional/co-existing disorders)3 accompanied by compulsive behaviors similar to an alcoholic who needs a drink.
In a large-scale study at the University of Leeds, researchers found that people who spend large amounts of time on the internet are more likely to have symptoms of depression. In fact, researchers found the evidence that internet users can develop a compulsive internet habit where they start to replace the real-life relationships of real people for online social networking. This, as researchers found, can have a great impact on ones mental health.
However, developing proper skills by becoming aware of these intrusive thoughts to hop onto the internet or an app, and responding appropriately, is a successful method used in The Truth Of Addiction Program.
1. Nadeau, L. (2008). A new addiction: Internet junkies. Université de Montréal's Department of Psychology.
2-3. Wilt, B.(2014). Internet addicts often suffer from additional disorders. Ruhr-Universitaet-Bochum.