In our digital world, internet addiction is more pervasive than ever before. Your entertainment and information options are limited only by device battery and WiFi coverage. The temptation to stay online all day ensnares many, including our teens. Learn to recognize the signs of internet addiction disorder to keep your child healthy.
What Defines Internet Addiction?
Experts define internet addiction as using the web too frequently and too much as opposed to simply utilizing it moderately or only when necessary. Your teenage son or daughter may compulsively check his or her smartphone. Applications, websites, and brands are becoming more and more accessible, increasing the temptation.
Identifying an addiction of any kind involves self-reflection and the ability to objectively look at your actions and behaviours. If your teen is relying too heavily on your technology, it may be time for them to take a break. Seek help and guidance for what might have turned into an addiction. Have them take our internet addiction self-test to be sure.
What Are Some Signs of Internet Addiction?
Signs of internet addiction can vary from person to person, but most individuals who deal with an addiction to electronics and the internet show some of the same behaviours. Clues can be easy to spot with a bit of monitoring.
Preoccupation with going online or using electronics is one of the signs of internet addiction. A severe addiction to the internet or electronics often comes with a feeling of boredom with day-to-day life offline. Lying about electronics usage indicates that someone feels ashamed or guilty about the amount of time they spend using their devices.
A change in mood and behaviour is likely as the addiction to the internet grows more severe. Increased anxiety, depression, isolation, and loneliness are all common among individuals who have serious and severe addictions to video games, electronics, and the internet. Mood swings and increased irritability are likely to occur if your teen has not cut back on media consumption. Rage, unfettered anger, temper tantrums, and outbursts may occur as well.
Loss of focus and difficulty concentrating are likely as the internet and electronics become more important than everyday responsibilities. Avoidance of school, work, and other responsibilities is another serious symptom that can develop.
How to Get Help
Getting help for internet addiction is not always easy, especially if your teen is having a difficult time coming to terms with their addiction to electronics or if they are unsure where to turn. Seeking help for an electronic addiction is possible by reviewing and comparing programs that are right for your family based on the type of therapy, treatment, and recovery your teen requires while working through their addiction to the internet and electronics.
If you are ready to take the next step in understanding your teen’s addiction to electronics and the internet and you want to do so with professionals and an appropriate treatment plan, call 866.762.2211 today to learn how Venture Academy can help your teen get their life back on track.