The last few weeks, we have had several conversations on the show about Internet addiction. Why can’t we just be relaxed? Have you ever thought about what is really going on?
Well, Reader, let’s try this out. Take half a day off from doing anything, especially from using any gadgets—no laptop, no television, no phone. After that, notice how you feel. My guess is you will be extremely restless.
That’s some kind of addiction. It is called Internet addiction. All of us are suffering from it at different levels. In this episode of Health 360, we will recognize addiction and find solutions for it.
What Is Internet Addiction?
Not just adults, but even kids today are seeking therapy for Internet addiction, including addiction to pornography. This is a dystopian reality and, by any standard, a growing epidemic.
We are all hooked admit it or deny it. This is a serious problem. We are slaves to our gadgets. The addiction has not even spared young children.
During the pandemic, life changed for everyone. A shift in routine affected even children. Online classes became the norm. As screen time increased, some children began shifting screens to watch gaming videos during classes. Their craving for screens grew. Some children became aggressive, irritable, and even displayed physical outbursts like screaming or hitting walls.
Behavioral Changes Due to Internet Addiction
Do people around you always have their heads down, looking at their phones? Are meals eaten in silence, with everyone lost in their screens?
Are you always on your phone? Do you have a relationship only with your screens and not with your family or friends?
The Science Behind Internet Addiction
Technology addiction is rising fast in World. But what exactly happens to our brains when we overuse gadgets?
Constantly staring at screens overloads the brain. It lights up brain circuits like a Christmas tree. As we sit and watch rapid Digital content videos, games, reels the brain is in a state of perpetual hyperactivity. It is difficult for a brain in this state to calm down.
Doctors warn that Internet addiction causes both short-term and long-term problems. In children, it can lead to virtual autism, a developmental disorder.
The Rise of Instant Gratification
Our brains and personalities are shaped by constant instant gratification. Originally, only infants function on instant gratification they cry for food, for comfort, for attention, and expect immediate responses. However, due to overuse of technology, even adults now crave instant rewards.
Doctors say that counseling children as young as four and five years old for Internet addiction is becoming the new normal.
The Impact of Internet Addiction
The pandemic has worsened this issue. Many people now associate free time with scrolling on their phones. This behavior leads to what experts call the “scrolling syndrome,” where people lose track of time while endlessly scrolling. For children, addiction to gaming has become a major issue.
Experts warn parents to look out for signs of gaming addiction, such as:
- Thinking about gaming all the time.
- Losing interest in other activities.
- Being unable to reduce screen time.
- Using gaming as an escape from bad moods.
- This addiction is depriving children of a healthy childhood. However, breaking free is not impossible.
Steps to Reduce Screen Time
Many believe that logging off means completely giving up gadgets. That is not the case. A step-by-step detox is the key.
Here are some simple steps to reduce screen time and regain control:
- Avoid screens before bedtime.
- Do not check your phone first thing in the morning.
- Turn off notifications.
- Set designated “no-phone” areas in your home.
- Avoid screens while eating meals.
- Read books, newspapers, or magazines instead of Internet content.
- Use only one screen at a time.
- Clean up your social media accounts.
- Use apps to track screen time and build self-control.
Some of the best Digital detox apps include:
- App Detox – Limits app usage and sets guidelines.
- Cleverest – Uses the Pomodoro technique for better focus.
- Forest – Grows a virtual tree when you stay away from your phone.
- Flipped – Blocks social media while keeping calls and messages functional.
- Focus Mode (iPhone feature) – Customizes notifications and screen time limits.
Conclusion
Technology is good, but moderation is required. A real issue is Internet addiction, but we can reclaim control with awareness and little changes.
