With the closure of Instagram, data on social media usage has begun to be discussed. The situation of those who cancel their vacations because they cannot share at the hotel they are staying at, and those who become depressed when they stay away from social media has brought social media addiction to the agenda. Prof. Dr. Doğan Şahin, who has studies in the fields of community mental health and political psychology, explained internet addiction and solutions. Defining internet addiction as “individuals’ difficulty in fulfilling daily life activities and responsibilities as a result of excessive and uncontrolled use of the internet,” Prof. Dr. Şahin made the following assessments to Haber Global Web Özel:
* What are the symptoms of addiction?
Loss of control over time spent online and spending more time than planned. Feeling restlessness, anxiety, or depression when internet access is restricted. Inability to perform social, academic, or professional tasks due to internet use. Loss of interest or decreased interest in activities other than the internet. The tendency to use the Internet to escape from problems, stress, or negative emotions. Continuing this behavior despite recognizing the negative effects of Internet use.
*Who is more commonly affected?
Young people use the Internet extensively for social interaction, gaming, and information. Individuals who are trying to cope with work or school stress, social pressures, or personal problems may use the Internet as a means of escape. People who cannot establish relationships easily may develop addiction to virtual relationships, especially because it is easier in the virtual environment. Because social media platforms allow people to take on different identities and roles, they may help individuals with low self-esteem feel more confident.
* What does addiction lead to in human life?
Spending long periods of time in front of a screen can lead to physical health problems such as eye strain, headaches and neck pain, sleep disorders and weight gain due to inactivity. Internet addiction is among the reasons for the increase in mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, stress and loneliness. Spending excessive time on the Internet can negatively affect academic success and work performance. Spending on online games, shopping and other Internet-based activities can lead to economic problems; The decrease in time spent with family members and friends causes tension and conflict in relationships. As time spent online increases, security risks such as personal information disclosure or cyberbullying may also increase.
*What can families do against internet addiction?
It’s important to have open and honest communication with children about their internet use without being accusatory or judgmental. Listening to their thoughts, feelings and experiences builds trust and can help develop solutions together. Setting specific rules and durations for the maximum daily use of the internet and phone/tablet can help children use the internet more consciously. It is important that these rules are applied consistently.
* How should addiction that has reached an advanced stage be approached?
The first step is for the individual to recognize and accept that their internet use is a problem. Creating specific time frames for internet use and sticking to these times is an important way to regain control. Finding alternative activities such as hobbies, sports, reading or social events can be effective in reducing internet use. These activities allow a person to evaluate their time in a healthier and more productive way. If internet addiction is serious, it would be useful to get help from a psychiatrist and therapist who specializes in addiction.
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