How many hours per day do you spend online? While it may seem like innocent exploration, the internet has a darker side. Android phones, iPhones, and other smartphones give people internet access, and people use them around the clock. Most people can use the internet in a way that does not cause harm. It is a handy, indispensable tool at this point. 

However, for others, it is a problem. They must answer each question by taking out their phone to look it up, regardless of who they are with or what they are doing. They may even feel anxious or irritable when they cannot get online. This addiction can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships. It can also lead to financial problems, as people may spend hundreds of dollars on new phones, apps, and subscriptions. 

What Is Internet Addiction?

Internet addiction is real, and it's becoming more and more common. People become addicted to the instant gratification of being able to find out anything at any time. The addiction starts because dopamine is released from the rewards they get from clicking on new sites. These rewards can come from likes on social media, notifications, text messages, as well as just using the internet as a whole.

Over time, people become conditioned to crave these dopamine releases, and they spend more time online. They may even begin to use their devices, like phones, without thinking about it. If they can't check their phone for some time, they may experience anxiety or withdrawal symptoms.

Experts refer to this as a dopamine loop, which can be very difficult to break once it's started. Checking a text message turns into scrolling through social media and then moves on to using Google for hours. It is an addiction in every sense of the word.

Symptoms of an Online Addiction

Although internet addiction is not yet listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), research has compared it to gambling addiction, which is included in the manual.

At least four of the following signs and symptoms are thought to comprise criteria for internet addiction, and the problematic overuse must cause clinically significant impairment in critical areas of functioning (e.g., work, school, social activities, relationships) as indicated by at least three of the following:

• Tolerance, such that the individual needs to spend increasing amounts of time online or use the internet more frequently to achieve desired effects (e.g., feels restless or irritable when trying to cut down or stop internet use)

• Withdrawal symptoms when not online, resulting in angry outbursts, sleep problems, cravings/urges to use, anxiety, depression, and restlessness

• The internet is often used for a more extended period than intended

• Unsuccessful attempts to control, reduce, or stop internet use

• A loss of sense of time

• Has put a relationship or job at risk due to excessive time online

• Preoccupation with internet use

• Turns to the internet when experiencing unwanted feelings such as anxiety or depression

Physical Effects of Internet Addiction

As online addiction continues to be a global problem, it is essential to be aware of the physical effects that it can have on our bodies.

One of the most common problems associated with internet overuse is caused by looking at the screen; internet overuse results in digital eye strain. This occurs when we view a digital screen for extended periods and can cause a number of symptoms, including blurred vision, burning and itching eyes, and eye fatigue.

If left untreated, digital eye strain can lead to more severe problems, such as headaches, neck pain, and even permanent damage to our vision. Therefore, it is essential to take breaks from our screens periodically throughout the day to give our eyes a chance to rest.

In recent years, the number of people suffering from neck pain and other related problems has increased. This is primarily due to the increased use of smartphones and other devices. People who spend a lot of time looking down at their phones risk developing "text neck." This condition can cause pain and other problems.

In addition, phones can be a source of bacteria and other contaminants. Studies show that many phones are contaminated with E. coli, MRSA, and other dangerous bacteria. These contaminants can cause serious illnesses, including fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. 

Digital Addiction Treatment

The good news is that treatment for digital addiction is becoming more available. Digital addiction services typically focus on partnering with clients to help them confront their problematic relationship with technology and develop healthy coping skills, allowing them to successfully move forward with life in a healthy, productive way. Most clients who seek treatment are struggling with not only an addiction to the Internet or their devices but also the underlying issues that led to the development of this addiction in the first place.

Treatment involves identifying the root cause of an individual's addiction and then providing them with the tools and resources they need to overcome it. If you or someone you love is struggling with digital addiction, reach out today and take the first step toward recovery. A life free from digital addiction can be a reality.

Internet addiction is real, and it is a growing problem. An obsession with online activity characterizes online addiction. Individuals who struggle with overusing the internet through their phones, computers, and other devices exhibit the hallmark behaviors of any addiction. These include interrupted sleep, mood swings, and problems at work or school. Individuals may also engage in risky behaviors, such as using their cell phones while driving. The good news is that digital technology addictions are treatable. Next Level Recovery Associates offers professional, cutting-edge digital addiction concierge support services for those struggling with technology use. If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of digital technology addiction, we can help. Next Level offers counseling, recovery coaching, case management, intervention planning, and many other innovative services to support your treatment and recovery journey. For more information, contact Next Level Recovery Associates today at consult@nextlevelra.com.