Internet Addiction Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, & Side Effects

Last Updated March 22, 2024

Throughout recent years, the startling realities and negative consequences of Internet addiction disorder are becoming more acknowledged in the professional world. Though this addiction does not yet have a place in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), it is officially recognized by the American Psychological Association, and significant research is being conducted on its potential roots and long-term effects.

Internet addiction shares many similar traits to other impulse addictions, such as gambling, and may co-occur with other mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. However, there is help available to anyone who suffers from this addiction.

Below, we will discuss what exactly an Internet addiction disorder is and what signs and symptoms to look out for. We’ll then be giving you information on treatment types so you can make an informed decision about where you or a loved one can start their recovery journey.

What Is Internet Addiction Disorder?

Internet addiction disorder is characterized by a dependency on Internet applications to cope with stress or other negative feelings or by compulsive use of the Internet to play games, shop online, or chat online with others. Several subcategories of Internet addiction exist, such as online video game addiction, online gambling addiction, and cybersex addiction. More recently, studies are beginning to explore the compulsive use of mobile devices and social media websites as further subcategories of Internet addiction.

What Causes an Internet Addiction?

It is still unknown what exactly causes an Internet addiction, but many studies have pointed out that most activities on the Internet feature a variable-ratio reinforcement schedule. No matter the Internet usage (e.g., chat rooms, video games, general surfing, social networking, or pornography websites), there comes an unpredictable reward structure. Combine this with mood-enhancing or stimulating content (like what comes with pornography, video games, and social interactions), and it can be hard to break away from the Internet.

Individuals who are predisposed genetically to addictive behaviors may be more likely to suffer from an Internet addiction disorder, but anyone can fall into this trap. Over time, individuals are likely to spend increasing amounts of time on the Internet to seek these rewards, and they can find themselves unable to pull away from their online activities.

Internet Addiction Disorder and Co-Occurring Disorders

Individuals who suffer from an Internet addiction disorder are also likely to experience co-occurring disorders such as depression, psychoticism, and anxiety. Several studies indicate that Internet addiction is the result of coping with a separate mental health disorder, but there is no evidence yet to prove which behavioral issue came first. Internet addiction disorder can also develop without the individual experiencing depression or anxiety, but these feelings can occur as part of an Internet addiction.

Statistics and Facts About Internet Addiction Disorders

These statistics and facts about Internet addiction disorders can help put this condition into perspective.

As of 2020, the average Internet user spends around 6 hours and 43 minutes online each day.
There are currently five types of subcategories to Internet addiction, but several others are being researched.
5% of Americans are Internet users, with between 1.5% and 8.2% showing some sign of addiction.
4% of total Internet users around the globe spend more time online than intended on a regular basis.
34% of those with an Internet addiction will check their favorite websites before getting out of bed in the morning, and 20% will wake during the night to check online websites.

You should keep in mind that Internet addiction is still relatively underdiagnosed, so these statistics are prone to change over time and may not reflect the actual percentage of users who suffer from Internet addiction in some way.

Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction Disorders

Signs and symptoms of Internet addiction disorders can vary from person to person, but there are several things to watch out for.

Physical Symptoms

The physical symptoms below can be caused by using a computer or mobile device for extended periods as part of an Internet addiction.

Backache
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Headaches
Insomnia
Poor nutrition
Neglect of proper hygiene
Neck pain
Dry eyes
Strained eyes
Weight fluctuations

When left unaddressed, physical symptoms of an Internet addiction may lead to more prominent health issues and problems such as chronic pain.

Behavioral Symptoms

Individuals suffering from an Internet addiction may display one or more of these behavioral symptoms.

Depression
Anxiety
Dishonesty
Agitation
Mood swings
Fear
Loneliness
Euphoric feelings when online
Inability to prioritize
Trouble meeting schedules
Procrastination
Trouble developing new relationships
Avoidance of real-life social situations
Isolation
Feelings of guilt
No sense of time
Defensiveness
Boredom with routine tasks
Avoidance of work
Inability to put down a mobile device/leave the computer

Individuals suffering from an Internet addiction disorder may also try to hide their activities, lie about how much time they spend online, exhibit shame when confronted about their behavior online, or neglect work and personal life in favor of using the Internet. In the case of an Internet addiction characterized by online gambling, gaming, or shopping, financial issues may arise that can create stress on the individual or their families.

Internet Addiction Withdrawal

Much like with other addictions, those suffering from an Internet addiction disorder can experience the following withdrawal symptoms if they try to break their online usage cycle.

Increased anxiety
Moodiness
Increased negative mood
Depression
Craving for access to the Internet or specific online games
Psychosis (this is rare)

In most cases, individuals will not experience the more extreme withdrawal symptoms, such as psychosis, but it is important to be in a safe and supportive environment when trying to break the cycle of Internet addiction. Always check with a medical professional before beginning any detox routine or treatment plan for Internet addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms are typically the most intense after the initial sustained period of abstinence from online activities, but they generally improve within the first two to three weeks after stopping Internet usage.

Diagnosing an Internet Addiction Disorder

Diagnoses for an Internet addiction disorder are not standardized just yet, but professionals look for several key factors when evaluating this condition. The below criteria have been proposed as a part of diagnosing an Internet addiction.

A preoccupation with the Internet that includes thinking about previous or future online activity.
Needing to spend increasing amounts of time on the Internet to achieve enjoyment.
Unsuccessful efforts to control or cut back on Internet usage.
Exhibiting restlessness, mood swings, depression, or irritability when trying to stop Internet use.
Staying on the Internet longer than intended.

In addition to these symptoms, at least one of the following criteria must be present:

The individual has jeopardized or risked losing a relationship, job, or educational opportunity due to their Internet use.
The individual has lied to others (including family members or a therapist) to hide their activities on the Internet.
The individual uses the Internet to escape from problems, stress, or to help relieve a dysphoric mood (this includes feelings of helplessness, guilt, anxiety, or depression).

Professionals and researchers have put forth several other tests and diagnostic criteria as part of the ongoing studies into Internet addiction. More information about diagnosing this disorder can be found here.

Treatment Options for Internet Addiction Disorder

The treatment of an Internet addiction disorder can be very complicated because the Internet is so entwined in our day-to-day lives. It can be difficult to stop using the Internet completely, which is a traditional treatment for many other types of addiction, so individuals may need to develop differing routines and coping skills to prevent them from relapsing into their previous Internet use habits.

Below, we discuss some of the treatment options that are being explored as a way to recover from an Internet addiction disorder.

Self-Driven Treatment

If you recognize the signs and symptoms of Internet addiction, you can begin your own self-driven treatment. This is typically a good choice for milder cases and involves setting up specific schedules or times that you can use the Internet, stopping yourself from turning to the Internet for mood regulation, and controlling online spending or gaming.

However, in some instances, withdrawal from the Internet can cause significant mental health distress. Therefore, it is essential to consult with a medical professional or therapist before beginning any kind of self-driven treatment or Internet abstinence to ensure you are safe and supported throughout your recovery.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most common treatments for Internet addiction. This therapy involves identifying and restricting negative patterns which can help those with Internet addiction break their cycle of online usage and prevent compulsive use of the Internet. CBT may also help to treat any co-occurring disorders or underlying conditions that are connected to an individual’s Internet addiction.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT utilizes acceptance and mindfulness strategies alongside commitment and behavioral change strategies to increase psychological flexibility in an individual. The use of specific exercises in this therapy allows individuals to process thoughts and emotions in a healthy way, encouraging them to gain insight and more readily commit to behavior change.

ACT can be incredibly helpful in breaking a cycle of Internet usage where the individual has trouble changing their schedule or frequently relapses to their online habits.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

As a subset of CBT, dialectical behavioral therapy is commonly used to help individuals cope with stress, improve interpersonal relationships, and regulate emotions. It can be useful for those suffering from Internet addiction because the disorder often develops with other emotional issues, such as anxiety or depression. It can also prevent the individual from creating quality offline relationships.

Reality Therapy

Reality therapy can assist those suffering from an Internet addiction as it encourages individuals to make positive changes in their lives while educating them about the consequences of continued addiction. It introduces the idea that addiction is a choice, and it teaches individuals to make better behavioral choices by presenting alternative activities to online usage. This therapy has been proven to reduce symptoms of Internet addiction and improve both feelings of confidence and self-esteem.

SSRIs

In cases where Internet addiction is accompanied by co-occurring disorders such as depression or anxiety, SSRIs (commonly referred to as anti-depressants) may be able to improve an individual’s behavioral issues. This is because medication can improve other mental health symptoms such that the individual no longer feels the same need to engage in online activities. SSRIs must be prescribed by a medical professional and are generally combined with other types of treatment to provide a sustainable recovery from Internet addiction.

Family Therapy

Oftentimes, poor family relationships can arise as a result of an individual’s Internet addiction. In these cases, family therapy can help all members of the family address their feelings and thoughts on an individual’s addiction in a healthy way. This allows healing to take place and the development of a better quality relationship moving forward. Improved family relationships may also provide individuals with alternate activities for engagement besides Internet usage, which can help them break the cycle of addiction.

Support Groups

Many who suffer from Internet addiction are encouraged to join support groups or enroll in group therapy. The group atmosphere and peer support can mimic the feelings of being on the Internet, making it easier to start treatment and find things in common with others. As well as providing the individual with valuable social skills, learning from other’s experiences may also help them gain more introspection about their own struggles with Internet addiction.

Wellness and Holistic Therapies

When it comes to Internet addiction, an individual may be experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, or helplessness. They may also be experiencing poor nutrition or chronic pains as a result of their addiction. Wellness therapies that include becoming nutritionally informed and holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help individuals overcome these negative feelings and start to repair their body’s wellbeing. These treatments can be an important part of any recovery journey and may also provide healthy alternative activities for an individual to engage in.

Resources

If you or a loved one is struggling with an Internet addiction disorder, it is important to know that you are not alone. Help is available for this condition and you will be able to find both support and effective treatment. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for more information on starting recovery.

You can also find a list of local treatment centers on our website that can help you get started with safe, supportive treatment.

Key Sources

Cash, H., Rae, C. D., Steel, A. H., & Winkler, A. (2012). Internet Addiction: A Brief Summary of Research and Practice. Current psychiatry reviews, 8(4), 292–298. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3480687/

Hartney, E. (2020). How to Know If You Have an Internet Addiction and What to Do About It. VerywellMind. https://www.verywellmind.com/internet-addiction-4157289

Paik, A., Oh, D., & Kim, D. (2014). A case of withdrawal psychosis from internet addiction disorder. Psychiatry investigation, 11(2), 207–209. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4023098/

Mental Health America. (2021). Risky Business: Internet Addiction. https://www.mhanational.org/risky-business-internet-addiction

Medical Disclaimer

At RehabAid.com, we are dedicated to helping people recover from problematic substance use and associated mental health disorders. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. Information on treatment and support options is readily available through the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-4357. To further assist you along the path to recovery, the treatment center locator on our website allows you to easily find rehabilitation programs and services in your local area.

We provide our readers with factual, evidence-based content concerning the causes and nature of addiction, as well as available treatment options. However, this informative content is intended for educational purposes only. It is by no means a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. With regard to any addiction-related health concerns, you should always seek the guidance of a qualified, registered physician who is licensed to practice medicine in your particular jurisdiction. You should never avoid or delay seeking professional health care advice or services based on information obtained from our website. Our authors, editors, medical reviewers, website developers, and parent company do not assume any liability, obligation, or responsibility for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences alleged to have happened directly or indirectly as a result of the material presented on RehabAid.com.