Internet addiction disorder 
(IAD), also known This and other relationships between
as problematic internet use or pathological internet use, is
generally defined as problematic, compulsive use of the
internet, that results in significant impairment in an individual's
function in various life domains over a prolonged period of
time. Young people are at particular risk of developing internet
addiction disorder.[1]
 
digital media use and mental health have been under
considerable research, debate and discussion amongst experts in
several disciplines, and have generated controversy from the
medical, scientific and technological communities. Such
disorders can be diagnosed when an individual engages in
online activities at the cost of fulfilling daily responsibilities or
pursuing other interests, and without regard for the negative
consequences. The Internet can foster various addictions
including addiction to pornography, game-playing, auction sites
social networking sites, and surfing of the Web.[2]
Excessive Internet use has not been recognised as a disorder by
the World Health Organization, the 
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5
 or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). The
diagnosis of gaming disorder has been included in the 
International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). Controversy
around the diagnosis includes whether the disorder is a separate
clinical entity, or a manifestation of underlying psychiatric
disorders. Research has approached the question from a variety
of viewpoints, with no universally standardised or agreed
definitions, leading to difficulties in developing evidence based
recommendations.
As adolescents (12–19 years) and emerging adults (20–29
years) access the Internet more than any other age groups and
undertake a higher risk of overuse of the Internet, the problem
of Internet addiction disorder is most relevant to young people.
[3]
A longitudinal study of Chinese high school students (2010)
suggests that individuals with moderate to severe risk of Internet beneficial for peer relations in Taiwan.
addiction are 2.5 times more likely to develop depressive
symptoms than their IAD-free counterparts.[4]
The best-documented evidence of Internet addiction so far is
time-disruption, which subsequently results in interference with
regular social life, including academic, professional
performance and daily routines.[5] Some studies also reveal that
IAD can lead to disruption of social relationships in Europe and
Taiwan.[6][7] It is, however, also noted by others that IAD is
[8]
Dr. Keith W. Beard (2005) states that "an individual is addicted
when an individual’s psychological state, which includes both
mental and emotional states, as well as their scholastic,
occupational and social interactions, is impaired by the overuse
of [Internet]".[9]
As a result of its complex nature, some scholars do not provide a
definition of Internet addiction disorder and throughout time,
different terms are used to describe the same phenomenon of
excessive Internet use.[10] Internet addiction disorder is used
interchangeably with problematic Internet use, pathological
Internet use, and Internet addictive disorder. In some cases, this
behavior is also referred to as Internet overuse, problematic
computer use, compulsive Internet use, Internet abuse, harmful
use of the Internet, and Internet dependency.
TREATME
NT
Current interventions and strategies used as
treatments for Internet addiction stem from those
practiced in substance abuse disorder. In the
absence of "methodologically adequate research",
treatment programs are not well corroborated.[77]
 Psychosocial treatment is the approach most
often applied.[49] In practice, rehab centers usually
devise a combination of multiple therapies.[57]
Psychosocial treatmentEdit
Cognitive behavioral therapy
The cognitive behavioral therapy with Internet addicts (CBT-IA)
is developed in analogy to therapies for impulse control disorder.
[26][78]
Several key aspects are embedded in this therapy:[79][80]
•Learning time management strategies;
•Recognizing the benefits and potential harms of the Internet;
•Increasing self-awareness and awareness of others and one's
surroundings;
•Identifying "triggers" of Internet "binge behavior", such as
particular Internet applications, emotional states, maladaptive
cognitions, and life events;
•Learning to manage emotions and control impulses related to
accessing the Internet, such as muscles or breathing relaxation
training;
•Improving interpersonal communication and interaction skills;
•Improving coping styles;
•Cultivating interests in alternative activities.
Three phases are implemented in the CBT-IA therapy:[26][78]
1.Behavior modification to control Internet use: Examine both computer MedicationEdit
behavior and non-computer behavior and manage Internet addicts' time online IAD may be associated with a co-
and offline; morbidity, so treating a related disorder
2.Cognitive restructuring to challenge and modify cognitive distortions: Identify, may also help in the treatment of IAD.
challenge, and modify the rationalizations that justify excessive Internet use; When addicts were treated with certain
3.Harm reduction therapy to address co-morbid issues: Address any co-morbid anti-depressants it reduced time online by
factors associated with Internet addiction, sustain recovery, and prevent relapse. 65% and also reduced cravings of being
Symptom management of CBT-IA treatment has been found to sustain six online. The anti-depressants that have been
months post-treatment.[26] most successful are selective serotonin
Motivational interviewing reuptake inhibitors such as escitalopram
The motivational interviewing approach is developed based on therapies for   and a heterocyclic atypical anti-depressant
alcohol abusers.[26][80] This therapy is a directive, patient-centered counseling called bupropion. A psychostimulant,
style for eliciting behavior change through helping patients explore and resolve methylphenidate has also shown beneficial
ambivalence with a respectful therapeutic manner. It does not, however, provide effects.[33]
patients with solutions or problem solving until patients' decision to change
I believe that the Internet is a good place
behaviors.[79]
where people find friends and escape from
Several key elements are embedded in this therapy:[26]
external problems. But the Internet is very
•Asking open-ended questions;
much clogged with dangerous resources
•Giving affirmations;
that need to protect children and to which
•Reflective listening
you need to find a way to fight.
Other psychosocial treatment therapies include reality therapy, Naikan cognitive
psychotherapy, group therapy, family therapy, and multimodal psychotherapy.[79]