Recognising the Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction
Internet addiction may hide in the normality of heavy Internet use in our digital age, making it hard to spot. However, it’s important to recognise warning indications. If you or a loved one are experiencing these, get help:
- Loss of Control: Spending more time online than intended and finding it difficult to log off or quit certain activities, even when they negatively impact your life.
- Neglected Responsibilities: Shunning obligations like work, school, or family commitments in favour of online time.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling anxious, depressed, irritable, or restless when offline or attempting to reduce Internet use.
- Escalating Use: Feeling the need to use the Internet for longer to achieve the same satisfaction or ‘high’ that was once performed with lesser use.
- Failed Attempts to Cut Back: Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to reduce, control, or stop Internet use.
- Loss of Interest in Previous Hobbies or Activities: Preferring time spent online over social activities and hobbies once enjoyed.
- Denial of Problem: Dismissing concerns raised by others about the amount of time spent online or the negative consequences resulting from Internet use.
- Covering Up or Lying About Usage: Hiding the amount of time spent online or the nature of activities undertaken on the Internet.
- Physical Changes: Changes such as weight gain or loss, backaches, headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, sleep disturbances, or neglecting personal hygiene could be indicators of Internet addiction.
















