What is it?
Internet addiction refers to excessive or poorly controlled use of the internet that interferes with daily life, relationships, sleep, and emotional health. It often involves compulsive scrolling, online gaming, social media use, or browsing, and is increasingly recognised as a behavioural addiction.
What causes it?
Internet addiction is influenced by a mix of psychological, social, and neurological factors, such as:
- Using the internet to escape stress, loneliness, or emotional pain
- Lack of offline social connection or meaningful routines
- Dopamine-driven reinforcement from likes, shares, or virtual rewards
- Anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
- Easy accessibility and lack of digital boundaries
What are the possible symptoms?
Signs of internet addiction may develop gradually and include:
- Preoccupation with being online, even during important tasks
- Difficulty controlling screen time or unsuccessful attempts to cut down
- Feeling restless, irritable, or low when not online
- Neglect of sleep, studies, work, or relationships due to internet use
- Loss of interest in offline activities previously enjoyed
What do we do?
Internet addiction is approached by Dr. Prabhojit with practical, structured, and empathetic care to help restore digital balance.
Treatment includes:
Clinical Assessment
of usage patterns, emotional triggers, and functional impact
01
Behavioural Strategies
to set healthy limits and regain control over time
02
Therapy
to address underlying stress, anxiety, or self-worth issues
03
Digital Detox Planning
and development of meaningful offline routines
04
Parental Guidance
(if adolescent) to support screen discipline and emotional growth
05