Cyber addicts exhibit behaviours and impulse control problems involving the internet, PCs and mobile technology. There are 5 identifiable subcategories of specific types of computer and internet addictions.
Net compulsions: these concern harmful online activities like online gambling, trading stocks, online auctions, and compulsive online shopping. The major effect is massive spending hence debt.
Cyber (online) relationship addiction: these addicts find and maintain relationships online neglecting real-life family and friends. Since it is anonymous it can lead to catfishing. Unrealistic expectations may hamper true inter-personal connections. Counselling or therapy is needed to treat this.
Cybersex addiction: these involves online pornography, adult websites, sexual fantasy/adult chat rooms and XXX webcam services. In/out patient therapy may be required as part of treatment.
Computer or gaming addiction: these involves on/offline gaming activities from solitaire to 4D games.
Compulsive information seeking: these involve a compulsive urge to gather and organize data. Treatment includes different therapy modalities to medications.
The signs and symptoms of cyber addiction include the length of time spent on the net, other persons assessment of your internet interaction, preoccupation with the net, lying to people to conceal the extent of time spent on the net, uses internet as an escape from problems, is restless, moody, or irritable when attempting to cut down on the net, has jeopardised relationships, jobs or careers because of the net, and needs to stay on the net longer to achieve satisfaction.
Too much net can cause insomnia, vision problems, weight gain/loss, body aches, emotional effects like depressions, anxiety, aggression, mood swings and social isolation.
Treating an internet addict starts by planning an intervention or to express your concern with their behaviour. Therapy and /or medication to treat co-occurring disorders like OCD, anxiety or depression.