in present times, the internet has become a mode for communication, work and even entertainment. It has drastically changed the way people think and work. But excess use has created some other issues as well, which are now being observed.  Excessive use of internet that interferes with daily life has now been recognised as internet addiction disorder. It means, a state where important social and or occupational activities are reduced or given up, due to use of internet, i.e. where normal life is disrupted due to internet use.

"Internet addiction” is a subset of broader technology addiction. Way back it was for radio (1930s), later for television, but with the virtual explosion of digital technology, there is no parallel between intensity of addiction to radio or TV to that of internet. It offers a wider range of experiences, hence,   is much more appealing to users. 

In 1996, the first study was published about mass media effects of internet on society and this revealed the addictive nature of internet use. Various other studies have also been carried out. 

The harmful effects of excess use of internet are well known now. Reduced eye sight, chronic back and neck pain, cramps in fingers, carpal tunnel syndrome, obesity and its attendant problems are the physical effects of excess internet use. Emotional instability, being cut off from real emotions are some of the mental ill effects.  One addicted to internet may find it difficult to focus on work at hand, thus reducing efficiency.  Living in a fantasy world with more online friends than real ones, inability to nurture real human relationships, breakdown of existing relationships are the social hazards of excess internet use. Thus, it can be seen that excess internet use affects one’s physical, mental, social, as well as occupational lives. Teenagers and adolescents are much more affected. Worst still, they may be drawn to pornography or other undesirable sites, which can make them delinquents. 

Giving it up becomes difficult for the user. Individuals with IAD (internet addiction disorder), have been known to suffer from irritability, anxiety, vague headache, and et cetera, if they give up internet use suddenly. 

Since younger people are more affected, it is important for elders to watch for warning features of IAD.  Some of these are, preoccupation with the internet, where one is always thinking about previous on-line activity or anticipating the next one, use of the internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction, no attempt or repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, reduce or stop internet use. Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression, or irritability in the individual, when attempting to cut down internet use, staying on-line longer than originally intended, even when avoidable.  Jeopardised or risked loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of excess  internet use, telling lies to conceal the extent of involvement with the internet, use of the internet as a way to escape problems or to relieve a bad mood, are also some of the features of internet addiction.   

It is considered important to check for the above mentioned signs of IAD and help the affected person to overcome it.  Counselling as individuals and in groups is the first step towards it. Reducing the use, instead of curtailing it altogether, is the target. People should be educated about how constant, excess internet use can affect their overall health. They need to be told that online friends can be fake as well as dangerous.  Outdoor and indoor activities should be planned for youngsters, which should be much more enjoyable than using the internet.  

Collective efforts by all concerned, can ensure that the internet is used without being addicted to it.

Dr. Rachna Pande is a specialist in internal medicine.

E-mail-rachna212002@yahoo.co.uk