The first residential treatment center for Internet addiction in the United States opened its doors in Seattle. Internet addiction has already been taken seriously in China, South Korea, and Taiwan. Pathological computer use can include obsessive use of video games, texting, Facebook, eBay, Twitter and any other obsessive use of technology. The effects of internet addiction have led to loss of a job or marriage, car accidents while texting, and death, generally stemming from a blood clot associated with being sedentary. Warning signs include preoccupation with thoughts of the Internet; using it longer than intended, and for increasing amounts of time; repeated unsuccessful efforts to control use; jeopardizing relationships, school or work; lying to cover Internet use; using the Internet to escape problems or feelings of depression; and physical changes to weight, headaches or carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Janetzke suggests that people who suffer with mental illness may have a particularly hard time interacting with others and are vulnerable to addictions. In addition, many of these people have difficulty controlling their impulses to chat online, play games, or watch porn. Internet addicts miss out on real interactions and human development. Their hygiene, home, eating, sleeping, and relationships deteriorate and they do not get enough exercise. Dr. Janetzke warns that this is especially concerning for youth, who may be particularly susceptible to internet addiction, as many youth spend increasing amounts of time on computers and do not fully develop frontal lobes (the brain structures which regulate impulse-control) until age 25. Dr. Janetzke is an addiction specialist and provides psychotherapy for a variety of addictive disorders. While internet addiction remains a newly researched disorder, compulsive and addictive behaviors have been found to share commonalities that respond to traditional methods used to treat alcohol or drug addictions. Early intervention may prevent serious consequences including other disorders from developing. |
