Internet Addiction: Emotional Struggles and Treatment Options

Q: Internet Addiction: Emotional Struggles and Treatment Options

Hello Tina： Based on your description, it seems you are concerned about the possibility of internet addiction or depression. <br>1. <br>Research indicates that individuals with internet addiction tend to have higher levels of depression. <br>(1) Some people develop emotional issu

Prolonged internet use

Hello, doctor.
Here is my situation.
I clearly remember during my senior year of high school, due to a poor family atmosphere and the pressure of college entrance exams, I would sneak onto the computer to play games until one or two in the morning while my parents were asleep.
Later, during college, I began to notice that my internet usage time was increasing.
Although I felt happy and my mood improved while using the internet, there were times when I clearly felt unwell but continued to use it.
For example, I had to work at 8 AM but stayed up until after 4 AM using the internet, fully aware that I needed to sleep but still continued.
I once spent over ten hours on the computer reading web comics and intentionally shortened my sleep just to wake up earlier to continue reading.
Normally, if I am not using the internet, I do not feel any physiological or psychological insecurity, but once I start using it, I can develop the aforementioned problematic behaviors.
Even when I feel bored with it, I still find myself looking for information online.
Recently, I was prescribed medication for depression by a doctor.
I came across an article discussing the relationship between depression and substance addiction, which also mentioned internet addiction, suggesting that it might be possible to become addicted to something through a "self-healing mode" to achieve positive feelings.
Therefore, I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Is my internet addiction a result of seeking happiness due to feeling emotionally low, or is it simply a lack of self-control? 2.
I have seen that bupropion is used in the treatment of internet addiction; is it really effective? Thank you for your guidance, doctor.

Tina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/16

Dr. Wang Yaoting reply Psychiatry

Hello Tina: Based on your description, it seems you are concerned about the possibility of internet addiction or depression.
1.
Research indicates that individuals with internet addiction tend to have higher levels of depression.
(1) Some people develop emotional issues after experiencing life stressors and struggle to adjust appropriately in real life, often turning to the internet for support.
In such cases, without proper moderation and adjustment, they may become reluctant to face the real world and become immersed in online gaming or interactions.
(2) Another group of individuals may find themselves unable to escape their internet addiction; when faced with real problems, they often oscillate between the desire to play and feelings of regret.
However, due to the fear of losing internet access, they may be unable to disclose or discuss their psychological conflicts with parents or others.
This internal conflict can lead to emotional fluctuations, irritability, or depressive symptoms.
Your concern is whether your internet addiction is a result of low mood or simply a lack of self-control.
It would be advisable to first confirm whether you have internet addiction disorder or depression by consulting a mental health professional for an assessment.
2.
Bupropion is an antidepressant that enhances the effects of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain.
It has been shown to be effective in treating nicotine addiction, but its efficacy for internet addiction is still uncertain.
Moreover, such medications require a doctor's prescription, so it is best to use them under medical guidance.
Additionally, since you have some awareness of your condition, it may be beneficial to start with psychological and behavioral therapy for internet addiction.
I hope this information is helpful to you :)

Reply Date: 2020/07/16

More Info

Understanding internet addiction, particularly in the context of emotional struggles, is a multifaceted issue that often intertwines with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Your situation reflects a common pattern where individuals may turn to the internet as a coping mechanism to escape from stressors or emotional pain, which can lead to problematic usage patterns.

1. Emotional Low and Internet Addiction: It appears that your increased internet usage during high-stress periods, such as your senior year in high school, may have been a way to cope with the pressures you were facing at home and academically. This behavior is not uncommon; many people find temporary relief in engaging with online content, which can provide a sense of pleasure or distraction from their problems. However, this can quickly escalate into a cycle of dependency, where the individual feels compelled to continue using the internet despite negative consequences, such as lack of sleep or neglecting responsibilities.

Your acknowledgment of feeling "sick" about your internet use suggests an awareness of the potential harm it may be causing, which is a critical first step in addressing the issue. The struggle between knowing you should stop and feeling unable to do so is a hallmark of addictive behaviors. This conflict often stems from underlying emotional distress, such as feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, or depression, which you may be attempting to alleviate through internet use.

2. Self-Regulation and Treatment Options: The question of whether your internet addiction is due to emotional lows or simply a lack of self-control is complex. It is likely a combination of both. Emotional struggles can diminish self-regulation abilities, making it harder to resist the urge to engage in behaviors that provide immediate gratification, such as browsing the internet or playing games.

Regarding pharmacological treatments, bupropion is an antidepressant that has been studied for various uses, including its potential effectiveness in treating internet addiction. Bupropion works by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which can help improve mood and reduce cravings associated with addictive behaviors. Some studies suggest that it may be beneficial for individuals struggling with both depression and addictive behaviors, but results can vary from person to person.

In addition to medication, it is essential to consider behavioral therapies that can help address the underlying emotional issues and develop healthier coping strategies. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for treating both depression and addictive behaviors, as it focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Engaging in activities that promote emotional well-being, such as exercise, social interactions, and mindfulness practices, can also be beneficial.

Lastly, it is crucial to seek professional help. Consulting with a mental health professional who can provide a comprehensive assessment and tailored treatment plan is vital. They can help you explore the root causes of your internet use, develop coping strategies, and determine whether medication like bupropion is appropriate for your situation.

In conclusion, your experience with internet addiction likely stems from a combination of emotional struggles and challenges with self-regulation. Addressing these issues through a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can help you regain control and improve your overall well-being.

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