Internet Addiction: Signs, Impact, and Solutions

Compulsive internet use leading to internet addiction that is difficult to control?

Regarding internet addiction, I believe my brother shows signs of this condition: 1.
He spends about 14 hours a day online, starting from when he wakes up in the morning (around 9:00 or 10:00) until he goes to bed at midnight, only briefly stepping away during meal times (about 10 minutes per meal).
2.
His online activities mainly include: (1) online gaming (World of Warcraft) — this accounts for approximately 95% of his online time; (2) browsing BBS forums related to video games or anime.
3.
The impact of this behavior includes: (1) Academics — he has failed multiple subjects in high school and college, almost repeating a year in high school, and was expelled from college; (2) Social life — after being expelled, he is unwilling to seek employment and prefers to stay home playing video games, having no friends; (3) Family — he has poor communication with family members; discussions about reducing internet usage or finding a job often lead to arguments, and he has even left home to go to internet cafes, lying to his family about his online activities; (4) Physical and mental health — while living away for college, he would stay up all night gaming, neglecting meals and lacking any exercise routine.
At home, unless family members prepare meals for him, he often skips eating or consumes very little to avoid inconvenience.
Given these points, it seems he clearly has internet addiction, and I would like to know how to treat or help him: 1.
Regarding medical treatment: (1) Which specialty should he see? (2) How can I encourage him to visit a doctor? He does not acknowledge he has a problem; is it possible to arrange for a doctor to visit our home, or is there a better approach? 2.
What can family members do? (1) Currently, we enforce a rule that he must turn off the computer and go to bed by midnight, and we insist he eats three meals a day; (2) On weekends, if the weather is nice, we take him hiking or out to avoid the computer, but he has started to refuse these outings; (3) We encourage him to practice self-discipline and be aware of his behavior, but he often reacts with anger, locks himself in his room to continue playing, goes to internet cafes when the internet is cut off, and leaves home without his phone, making it difficult to track his whereabouts.
I hope to receive some advice and concrete plans, as it is truly not a solution for him to spend all day at home online without purpose.
Thank you for your time in responding.

Sara, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/05/29

Dr. Chen Mingzhe reply Psychiatry

Seek help from friends to find some activities; don't stay cooped up at home every day.

Reply Date: 2006/05/29

More Info

Internet addiction, often referred to as problematic internet use, is a growing concern in today's digital age. It can manifest in various ways, including excessive gaming, social media use, or browsing the web, leading to significant negative impacts on an individual's life. Based on the information provided about your brother's behavior, it appears he may be struggling with internet addiction, which is affecting his academic performance, social interactions, family relationships, and overall health.

Signs of Internet Addiction
1. Excessive Time Spent Online: Your brother spends approximately 14 hours a day online, primarily engaged in online gaming. This level of usage is significantly above average and can indicate a problem.

2. Neglect of Responsibilities: His academic struggles, including failing grades and the risk of being expelled from college, suggest that his online activities are taking precedence over his educational commitments.

3. Social Isolation: The withdrawal from social interactions and reluctance to seek employment after being expelled from school are concerning signs of internet addiction. This isolation can lead to further mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.

4. Conflict with Family: The arguments with family members regarding his internet use and his tendency to lie about his activities are red flags. This behavior often stems from a desire to hide the extent of his addiction.

5. Physical Health Issues: The lack of proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep due to prolonged internet use can lead to serious health problems, both physically and mentally.

Impact of Internet Addiction
The consequences of internet addiction can be profound. It can lead to academic failure, job loss, social isolation, and deteriorating physical health. Additionally, it can exacerbate underlying mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break.

Solutions and Treatment Options
1. Seeking Professional Help:
- Which Specialist to See: A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who specializes in addiction or behavioral issues, would be the most appropriate choice. They can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend a treatment plan.

- Getting Him to See a Doctor: Since your brother does not acknowledge his problem, it may be challenging to convince him to seek help. Consider approaching the topic gently, emphasizing concern for his well-being rather than labeling his behavior as an addiction. Family therapy might also be beneficial, as it can provide a supportive environment for discussing these issues.

2. Family Interventions:
- Setting Boundaries: Continue to enforce rules regarding computer use, such as limiting screen time and ensuring he eats regular meals. However, it's essential to approach this with empathy rather than strict enforcement, as this can lead to resistance.

- Encouraging Activities: While you are already attempting to engage him in outdoor activities, it may be helpful to find activities that align with his interests. For example, if he enjoys gaming, consider finding local gaming clubs or events that can provide a social outlet.

- Open Communication: Foster an environment where he feels safe discussing his feelings and struggles without fear of judgment. This can help him feel more comfortable seeking help.

3. Self-Help Strategies:
- Encourage Self-Reflection: Help him to recognize the impact of his internet use on his life. Journaling or discussing his feelings about his gaming habits can be a starting point.

- Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage him to adopt healthier routines, such as regular exercise, proper nutrition, and sleep hygiene. These changes can improve his mood and reduce the urge to spend excessive time online.

4. Support Groups: Look for local or online support groups for internet addiction. Connecting with others who share similar struggles can provide encouragement and accountability.

Conclusion
Internet addiction is a serious issue that can have far-reaching effects on an individual's life. It is crucial to approach the situation with compassion and understanding, recognizing that change takes time. By seeking professional help, setting healthy boundaries, and fostering open communication, you can support your brother in overcoming his addiction and improving his overall quality of life.

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