Mohammad Hanief
Technology is an integral and growing part of our lives. It is key for efficient functioning in many aspects of our lives and vital for social connection for many. Our smartphones are constant companions for many of us. However, excessive, compulsive or out-of-control use of various types of technologies is an increasing area of concern.
Excessive and compulsive use of the internet or online activities can lead to negative consequences in various aspects of an individual’s life. Technology addiction can potentially involve various forms of online activity including social media, gaming, gambling, problematic use of online pornography, and others.
Social media addiction involves problematic and compulsive use of social media; an obsessive need to check and update social media platforms, often resulting in problems in functioning and disrupted real-world relationships.
Internet gaming disorder refers to excessive use of online or video games, leading to neglect of responsibilities and physical health. Online gambling is another area of growing concern. A wide variety of games and sports betting apps are increasingly readily available. Gambling functions are also incorporated into other online activities such as within online gaming activities. While gambling disorder is not new, the increased availability and easy access via phone or computer are raising new concerns.
Online shopping or auction addiction involves an impulse, drive, or temptation to shop online and repeatedly acting on the impulse in a way that is harmful and leads to disruption in various areas of a person’s life.
Social media, integral to contemporary life, offers significant connectivity and entertainment benefits. However, its pervasive use has given rise to social media addiction, particularly among teenagers, characterized by excessive screen time, compulsive checking, and detrimental effects on real-life relationships and responsibilities. This addiction is driven by a combination of psychological factors, such as low self-esteem and mental health issues, technological mechanisms like infinite scrolling and personalized notifications, and social influences, including peer pressure and exposure to idealized content.
Effective management of social media addiction requires a multifaceted approach. Behavioural interventions, such as Cognitive BehaviouralTtherapy (CBT) and mindfulness training, educational initiatives that raise awareness about addiction risks, and parental strategies involving boundaries and monitoring can collectively mitigate the negative impacts of social media. Implementing these strategies is crucial for fostering healthier online behaviours and improving overall well-being among teenagers.
Some people may be particularly vulnerable, especially those with high levels of internet use for socialization, education, and entertainment. However, technology addiction is not limited to a specific demographic group, and it is increasing across diverse populations.
Children and adolescents may be particularly vulnerable to technological addiction because their brains are still developing. For some children and teens, social media and video games play a significant role in the relationships and experiences that impact their growth, development and mental health.
Symptoms of internet use disorders vary with different technologies but generally include an inability to control use of the technology, difficulties with personal and professional responsibilities, continuing to use the technology despite negative consequences, and continued problems over an extended period.
Just as with substance use disorders, people with a technological addiction may think obsessively about the behaviour and they may experience withdrawal symptoms if access to the technology is cut off. They may also require greater time or intensity in the technology use behaviour to feel the same effects.
In some circumstances, there may be physical symptoms such as eye strain, headaches, and disrupted sleep. It is important to note that the amount of time spent on a technology alone does not necessarily indicate problematic or compulsive use. Important is to consider whether a person’s excessive focus on online activities may be related to another mental health condition. The problematic use of technology “may be a coping mechanism, maladaptive behaviour, or a self-medication for an underlying psychiatric condition.”
A number of factors can contribute to the development of tech addiction, including psychological, social, and environmental factors. Individuals with pre-existing mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may be more susceptible to developing internet use disorders as a coping mechanism. Social isolation, peer pressure, and a lack of in-person social connections can contribute to the reliance on online interactions. Additionally, the accessibility and convenience of the internet, especially through smartphones, play a role in the development of internet use disorders.
It is also important to identify and address any coexisting mental health issues. Support groups for technology addictions and family therapy are helpful for recovery for many individuals. The increase in the availability of online peer support and recovery groups has been helpful in addiction treatment as it makes connecting with others and getting support easily accessible and anonymous if desired.
Preventive strategies for internet use disorders include raising awareness, especially among youth, about the potential risks associated with excessive internet use and implementing healthy strategies for use and time limits. In severe cases, a psychiatrist may suggest medications including antidepressants or stimulants to treat certain types of technology addiction.
Educational programs targeting parents, educators, and healthcare professionals can help identify early signs of addiction and provide support. Implementing guidelines for responsible internet use, both at home and in educational settings, can help to maintain a healthy relationship with technology.
The challenge going forward in the ever-changing landscape of technology is “how to best handle technology with an eye on maximizing its enormous potential for fulfilment, gratification, and happiness while minimizing its significant risks for dissatisfaction, misery, and despair.
Social media is increasingly omnipresent today, but this doesn’t mean you’ll automatically develop an addiction to it.By taking frequent breaks and setting clear boundaries for yourself and your children, you can help prevent an overreliance on social media before it becomes harmful.If you do suspect you have social media addiction, there are ways you can treat it to increase your overall well-being. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for help with this type of addiction.
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