What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Compulsive Internet Use
• Internet Addiction
• Problematic Internet Use

What is Internet Addiction Disorder? (Definition/Background Information)

• Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) is characterized by an impulsive need to spend time on the internet resulting in interference with many other aspects of one’s daily life
• The following are some common types of Internet Addiction Disorder:
  • Cybersex addiction: An addiction to online pornography and adult websites
  • Computer addiction: Obsessive indulgence in offline activities such as gaming
  • Addiction to cyber relationships: Communication primarily through an online platform
  • Informational addiction: An obsessive need for surfing websites to obtain new information
  • Online compulsions: Compulsive behavior on the internet such as gambling or shopping
• Internet Addiction Disorder is not a formal clinical disorder at the present time. However, with the rise of internet use for communication, there is an ongoing debate to include it in the next version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM), an authoritative handbook of mental disorders prepared and published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA)
• Internet Addiction Disorder may be caused by both biological and environmental factors, and may be associated with alteration of the brain structure and certain pre-existing addictions (such as substance abuse)
• Treatment for Internet Addiction Disorder focuses on a combination of lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, meditation, and medication, all of which promote a healthy use of the internet and eliminate compulsive behaviors
• The prognosis for Internet Addiction Disorder is determined on a case-by-case basis. With steady treatment, the affected individuals can overcome their addiction and learn to use the internet in a healthier manner

Who gets Internet Addiction Disorder? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Internet Addiction Disorder can be seen in individuals of any age, but it most commonly affects adolescents and adults
• Although both genders may be affected, males are more likely to develop the disorder than females
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected. The condition is observed to a higher degree in regions having increased internet access
• Internet Addiction Disorder is estimated to affect up to 8.2% of the general American population

What are the Risk Factors for Internet Addiction Disorder? (Predisposing Factors)

Some known risk factors for Internet Addiction Disorder include:

• Personal history of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Family history of mental disorders such as anxiety and depression
• Low self-esteem
• Having a limited social life
• Being unable to “fit in” with one’s peers
• Having certain pre-existing addictions, such as substance addiction

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Internet Addiction Disorder? (Etiology)

Internet Addiction Disorder may be caused by a combination of both biological and environmental factors such as:

• Structural changes in the prefrontal cortex in the brain necessary for prioritizing tasks
• Chemical deficiency of neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin in the brain
• Low self-esteem
• Presence of other addictions, such as substance addiction
• Presence of certain mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction Disorder?

The signs and symptoms of Internet Addiction Disorder may include the following:

• Reduced interest in other hobbies and activities
• Preoccupation with the internet - having consistent thoughts about previous and upcoming online activity
• Increasing the amount of time spent on the internet
• Unsuccessful efforts to reduce internet use
• Feelings of restlessness and irritability while away from the internet
• Spending a longer time on the internet than what was originally planned
• Prioritizing online relationships and activities over real life situations
• Lying to family members and therapists to conceal the extent of addiction
• Using the internet to escape real life problems

How is Internet Addiction Disorder Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Internet Addiction Disorder is made based on the information gathered from the following methods:

• Complete physical evaluation
• Comprehensive analysis of medical history
• Laboratory tests
• Descriptive questionnaires regarding internet use
• Differential diagnosis to rule out other disorders that may be present with similar signs and symptoms

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Internet Addiction Disorder?

The complications of Internet Addiction Disorder may include:

• Decreased productivity
• Lowered self-esteem
• Fatigue and stress
• High levels of anxiety and depression
• Physical health problems such as neck and back pain, bad eyesight, etc.
• Difficulties with interpersonal relationships
• Loneliness from limited face-to-face interactions
• Psychotic episode(s)

How is Internet Addiction Disorder Treated?

The treatment for Internet Addiction Disorder may include the following:

• Bringing about certain lifestyle changes, which is the primary method of treatment. This may include:
  • Restricting time spent online
  • Removing online notifications
  • Deleting applications (apps) from one’s device of choice
  • Occupying oneself with other activities
  • Creating a reward system for refraining from internet use
• Psychotherapy that includes the following:
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help change negative and dysfunctional thought patterns, feelings, and behaviors
  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) to treat nightmares or flashbacks
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to address those who have undergone abuse or trauma
  • Family therapy to educate the family of the disorder
  • Art therapy/music therapy
• Meditation and relaxation techniques
• Medication for associated anxiety and depression

How can Internet Addiction Disorder be Prevented?

The following methods may aid in preventing the onset of Internet Addiction Disorder:

• Increasing communication through face-to-face interactions rather than online engagements
• Limiting time spent online
• Participation in outdoor activities, reading books and newspapers

What is the Prognosis of Internet Addiction Disorder? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for Internet Addiction Disorder varies and is based on each individual case
• With sustained treatment and changing unhealthy lifestyle habits, the affected individuals may be able to overcome their addiction and learn to use internet in a healthy manner

Additions and Relevant Useful Information for Internet Addiction Disorder:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/emotional-well-being/