Internet Addiction: Coping Strategies for Affected Individuals

What are the consequences of internet addiction and what should be done about it?

Someone has anonymously created a blog to defame my friend and his family.
This individual spends a lot of time online, constantly pushing the boundaries of the law with their words to hurt my friend.
As a result, my friend has become addicted to sitting in front of the computer all day.
Eventually, he reported this to the police and discovered that the person behind the blog is a psychiatrist named Lin, who practices in Xinying, Tainan.
My friend, who is on medication for depression, has even had thoughts of self-harm.
He is overwhelmed with distress, and the other person is still hiding behind the blog, almost as if they are using their psychiatric skills to harm my friend's mental well-being.
Doctor, what should we do about this?

Pengyou bei pidou de ren, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/24

Dr. Gao Jingling reply Psychiatry

Your friend's situation is different from the typical causes of internet addiction.
However, frequently visiting the other person's blog could trap them into the other person's mindset.
Therefore, the first and most important step is to stop looking at or even hearing any information related to that blog.
Next, your friend's decision to take legal action is a good choice for protecting themselves and their family.
I believe that with the current telecommunications police and scientific investigation methods, there should be different types of evidence available for cases of defamation and attacks in the virtual world.
This part can be left to the professionals.
I suggest your friend focus on shifting their attention to other aspects of life and continue taking antidepressant medication while actively distancing themselves from the impact of negative events.

Reply Date: 2010/09/24

More Info

Internet addiction has become a significant concern in today's digital age, particularly when it leads to detrimental effects on mental health and interpersonal relationships. In your friend's case, it appears that the combination of online harassment and pre-existing mental health issues, such as depression, has exacerbated their situation, leading to feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. Here are some coping strategies and recommendations for addressing this issue:
1. Seek Professional Help: It is crucial for your friend to consult a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Given that they are already on medication for depression, a review of their treatment plan may be necessary. A mental health professional can provide therapy, which may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help them cope with the emotional distress caused by the online harassment.

2. Limit Internet Use: Encourage your friend to set boundaries around their internet usage. This could involve scheduling specific times for online activities and taking regular breaks. Engaging in offline activities, such as hobbies, exercise, or spending time with friends and family, can help reduce the time spent online and provide a healthier distraction.

3. Develop Coping Mechanisms: Teach your friend coping strategies to manage their feelings of anxiety and depression. This might include mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, which can help ground them and reduce stress. Journaling can also be a therapeutic outlet for expressing feelings and processing experiences.

4. Report the Harassment: If the online behavior constitutes harassment or defamation, it is essential to document the incidents and report them to the appropriate authorities. This could involve filing a complaint with the platform hosting the blog or even pursuing legal action if necessary. Your friend should not feel powerless against such actions, and taking steps to address the harassment can be empowering.

5. Build a Support Network: Encourage your friend to reach out to trusted friends or family members for support. Sharing their experiences with others can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide emotional support. Support groups, either online or in-person, can also be beneficial for individuals dealing with similar issues.

6. Educate About Internet Safety: Understanding the risks associated with online interactions can empower your friend to navigate the digital world more safely. This includes being cautious about sharing personal information and recognizing the signs of toxic online behavior.

7. Consider Medication Adjustment: If your friend’s current medication is not effectively managing their symptoms, it may be worth discussing with their psychiatrist the possibility of adjusting their treatment plan. Sometimes, a different medication or dosage can make a significant difference in mood stabilization.

8. Focus on Self-Care: Encourage your friend to prioritize self-care. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring they have adequate sleep. Self-care can significantly impact mental well-being and resilience against stressors.

In conclusion, your friend's situation is complex and requires a multifaceted approach to address both the emotional impact of online harassment and their mental health needs. By seeking professional help, setting boundaries around internet use, and building a supportive network, they can begin to regain control over their life and mental health. It is essential to take these steps seriously and act promptly to prevent further deterioration of their mental well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Internet Addiction: Emotional Struggles and Treatment Options

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. La...

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 exp...

Overcoming Internet Addiction: Building Meaningful Relationships

Hello Dr. Wu, I would like to consult you: Due to my limited social circle, even though I have a stable job that is relatively easy, during my free time, I often find myself just scrolling through my phone. I really enjoy lively environments, so I always have the TV on while mi...

Dr. Wu Enliang reply Psychiatry
Hello, A-Mei: You discussed this issue during your follow-up appointment on July 27, 2016. If you have any further questions, we can discuss them during your next outpatient visit. Thank you!

Understanding Internet Addiction: Signs, Impact, and Solutions

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 1...

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

Navigating Teen Internet Addiction: Balancing Control and Communication

Hello, my son is currently in his teenage years and often exhibits rebellious behavior. Recently, he has been spending a lot of time online on his phone. Although I try to control his internet usage at home, many convenience stores offer free Wi-Fi, which leads him to spend 5 to ...

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry
Dear Parents, Dealing with a teenager can be challenging, especially when it comes to their lack of self-control with internet usage, which is a common concern for many parents. I recommend taking your child to a pediatric psychiatrist or a child and adolescent mental health spe...