In today’s fast-paced digital world, the internet connects us, informs us, and entertains us. With over 3.8 billion users worldwide, it has become an inseparable part of daily life. Whether we are shopping online, scrolling through social media, or binge-watching YouTube, the digital world is always within reach. But what happens when that reach turns into a grip we can’t escape from?

Welcome to the hidden world of Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD). A growing concern that affects mental health, productivity, and relationships.

What Is Internet Addiction Disorder?

Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD), also known as Problematic Internet Use (PIU), is a psychological dependence on the internet. It involves compulsive and uncontrollable internet use that interferes with everyday life from relationships to work and education.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and DSM-5, excessive internet use can manifest in many forms, from online gaming and social media to cybersex, online shopping, and information overload.

While technology itself isn’t harmful, its overuse can lead to emotional instability, poor concentration, disturbed sleep, and even social withdrawal.

Early Signs and Symptoms

Recognizing early warning signs can prevent long-term damage.
Common symptoms include:

• Physical: Backache, eye strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and irregular sleep patterns.
• Psychological: Mood swings, irritability, agitation, and fear of missing out (FOMO).
• Cognitive: Poor attention span, slow decision-making, and memory impairment.
• Emotional : mood swing, irritation, anger and frustration
• Behaviour: Poor appetite and disturbed daily activities.

If you find yourself constantly thinking about what’s happening online, or unable to control the urge to check your phone, it may be time to pause and reflect.

Types of Internet Addiction

Dr. Kimberly Young (1996) identified five main types of internet addiction:

1. Cybersexual Addiction – Compulsive use of adult content or fantasy chat rooms.
2. Cyber-Relationship Addiction – Emotional overinvolvement in online relationships or social networking.
3. Net Compulsions – Addictions like online gaming, gambling, or shopping.
4. Information Overload – Obsessive web surfing or information hoarding.
5. Computer Addiction – Excessive time spent on computer-based activities, even offline.

These behaviors may seem harmless at first but can gradually take control of your emotions and daily routine.

What Causes Internet Addiction Disorder?

The roots of IAD are complex a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors.

• Social: Loneliness, lack of family support, or low self-esteem often push individuals to seek comfort online.
• Biological: Studies show that internet addiction alters dopamine and serotonin levels, creating pleasure patterns similar to substance addiction.
• Psychological: People with anxiety, depression, or ADHD are more vulnerable, often using the internet as an escape from distressing emotions.

 How Is It Diagnosed?

Internet Addiction Disorder is recognized through behavioral patterns such as:

If you identify with these, professional evaluation can help you understand your level of digital dependence.

• Salience: Constant preoccupation with being online, dominating thoughts and emotions.
• Mood Modification: Feeling calm, excited, or “high” while using the internet as an escape.
• Tolerance: Needing more time online to feel the same satisfaction.
• Withdrawal: Irritability, restlessness, or sadness when unable to use the internet.
• Conflict: Relationship, academic, or work problems due to excessive internet use.
• Loss of Control: Failed attempts to reduce or stop online activity.
• Time Distortion: Spending more time online than planned.
• Impulse: Difficulty logging off even when intending to.
• Life Impact: Neglecting personal, social, or career responsibilities.
• Deception: Hiding or lying about internet usage.
• Coping Mechanism: Using the internet to avoid stress, guilt, or depression.
• Relapse: Returning to old online habits after a period of control.

Psychological Treatments for Internet Addiction

At Mind Detox Centre, we use evidence-based psychological therapies to help patients regain control of their lives:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and replace negative thought patterns with healthier coping mechanisms.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Builds emotional regulation and mindfulness, especially for individuals struggling with impulsivity.
• Behaviour Therapy (BT): Focuses on modifying learned unhealthy habits.
• Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT): Helps individuals challenge irrational beliefs and build self-control.
• Cognitive Retraining Therapy: Enhances attention, memory, and decision-making skills affected by prolonged internet use.

Each treatment plan at Mind Detox Centre is tailored to meet the emotional and behavioral needs of every individual.

 Coping Strategies to Prevent or Manage IAD

1. Set Digital Boundaries: Establish daily screen-time limits and stick to them.
2. Practice Mindfulness: Be aware of the emotional triggers that prompt you to go online.
3. Engage Offline: Reconnect with hobbies, friends, and nature.
4. Set a primary goal: Make a goal for every day work

Seek Professional Help: Early intervention can make recovery smoother and faster.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Internet Addiction Disorder

Q1. What is Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD)?

Answer: Internet Addiction Disorder is a behavioral condition where an individual becomes excessively dependent on online activities such as social media, gaming, shopping, or browsing. It interferes with daily life, emotional health, relationships, and work performance.

Q2.  How do I know if I’m addicted to the internet?

Answer: Common signs include spending more time online than intended, feeling anxious or irritable when offline, losing interest in offline activities, and facing conflicts with family or work because of excessive internet use.

Q3. Is Internet Addiction a real mental health disorder?

Answer: Yes. Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and DSM-5, Internet Addiction Disorder is categorized under behavioral addictions. It shares similarities with other impulse-control disorders like gambling addiction.

Q4. What causes Internet Addiction?

Answer: It can be caused by multiple factors — loneliness, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor social support, or even changes in brain chemistry (dopamine imbalance). Many people use the internet as an escape from emotional distress.

Q5. Who is most at risk of developing Internet Addiction?

Answer: Teenagers, students, and professionals who spend long hours online are at higher risk. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or ADHD are also more vulnerable.

Q6. How does Internet Addiction affect mental health?

Answer: Prolonged internet use can lead to mood swings, poor concentration, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. It can also damage personal and professional relationships.

Q7.  What is the best treatment for Internet Addiction Disorder?

Answer: Psychological therapies are most effective. At Mind Detox Centre, we use:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) – to manage negative thoughts and compulsive behavior.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) – for emotional regulation and mindfulness.
• Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) – to address irrational beliefs and self-control.
• Cognitive Retraining Therapy – to improve focus and decision-making skills.

Q8. Can Internet Addiction be cured?

Answer: Yes. With consistent therapy, behavior modification, and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can achieve a full recovery. The key is early intervention and commitment to change.

Q9. How can I manage the early signs of Internet Addiction myself?

Answer:

• Set specific time limits for online use.
• Take frequent digital breaks.
• Engage in offline hobbies.
• Avoid using devices before bedtime.
• Set a goal of the day
• Seek help from a psychologist if symptoms persist.

Q10.  Why choose Mind Detox Centre for Internet Addiction Treatment?

Answer: The Mind Detox Centre in Delhi offers scientifically proven therapies under the guidance of expert clinical psychologist Dr. Rabya Umman, RCI Reg., who holds a Ph.D. in this field. She is an expert in substance and behaviour addiction (NDDTC, AIIMS). She provides affordable sessions, student discounts, and personalized treatment plans helping you regain balance between digital and real life.

📞 Need Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with Internet Addiction Disorder, connect with us today.
Mind Detox Centre – All Psychological Services
📍 Vasant Kunj & Zakir Nagar, Delhi
📱 Call/WhatsApp: +91-7987098215
🌐 www.minddetoxcentre.com