Unfortunately, due to the many ways in which we use computers (e.g., for work, for communication, for gathering information, etc.), it can be difficult to determine precisely when "normal" use of the Internet/computers can turn into "problematic" use. Without answers to this question, real problems can and often do go untreated.

Questions


At what point does Internet use become a problem?

When does playing computer and video games cease to be a form of entertainment and begin to be a problem?


How do I know what to look for?

Researchers Heron and Shapira (2003) created a checklist that uses the acronym "MOUSE" to give us some guidelines.

• More than intended time is spent online (or playing games)
• Other responsibilities are neglected (as a result of Internet/Game use)
• Unsuccessful attempts have been made to cut down on use
• Significant relationship problems occur because of use
• Excessive thoughts or anxiety when not online or playing games

1. Is the person preoccupied with Internet or Computer/Video Game use, and are these preoccupations (i.e., thoughts) irresistible?
• People with Problematic Internet Use have described feeling compelled to be online. We often hear them say, "I felt like I was missing something" (e.g., e-mail, news, online chatting, online multi-user games)
• Others describe day dreaming and or fantasizing about playing games when they are not online or playing the game.
2. Does the person engage in excessive use of the Internet or Computer/Video Games for longer periods than expected?
• People with Problematic Internet Use report that they often say, "Just a couple more minutes" (or "just one more level [of a game]"), which can turn into an hour or even several hours
• They also report not realizing how long they were online ("I completely lost track of time!").
3. The Internet/Computer/Video Game Use or the preoccupation with its use causes major distress or impairment in school, work, social, major relationships, or other important areas of functioning. Examples include:
• High school student who puts grades in jeopardy or who fails majority of classes due to excessive Internet or Computer/Video use; spends significantly less time in activities and with non-cyberspace friends
• College student who fails out of school after losing control of Internet/Gaming use; increasingly isolated from friends and social activities
• Spouse who loses control of online gambling or other Internet-related gaming; puts marriage and finances in significant jeopardy

Am I "Addicted"?

At the present time, there is no formal diagnosis called "Internet Addiction," although many clinicians and researchers describe excessive and problematic Internet and computer/video game use using this term. The reason it is described this way is because the signs and symptoms of excessive and problematic Internet and computer/video game use often mimic the signs and symptoms that occur with drug and alcohol addiction.

Signs of addiction include:
(Keep in mind these are signs of addiction to alcohol, drugs, and even excessive use of the Internet and Computer/Video Games)
• Significant preoccupation with use, also known as "cravings" (especially when not using)
• Feeling a "high," "numb," or "buzzed" when engaged in the activity. These feelings
• Increasing quantity (amount or time spent) to gain the feeling that was experienced at the beginning
• Feeling moody, irritable, depressed or anxious, or showing physical symptoms (ranging from headaches and stomach pain, to nausea and vomiting), when use is discontinued
• Significant conflict between the individual who is using and those around him/her, as well as guilty feelings about excessive use.

Co-Occurring Problems

It is important to remember that excessive and problematic Internet or Computer/Video Game Use if often a sign of other major life problems (interpersonal, family, emotional, scholastic, educational, marital), and can often serve as a response to or an escape from the stress of such problems.

Conditions such as major depression, anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as other addictive disorders such as alcohol/substance abuse and pathological gambling have also been shown to be present in people who exhibit the signs and symptoms of excessive and problematic Internet/Computer/Video Game use.

Keep in mind that every person is unique and it is important to have a thorough evaluation by an experienced mental health expert to gain the best understanding of your specific situation.

Get Help

Very often, people who need help do not get the help they need. Our philosophy is to err on the side of caution. If, after reading the information on this page, you believe you or someone you know shows the signs and symptoms listed here, please do not hesitate to call to get more information. The earlier a problem is treated, the better the prognosis tends to be.

When it comes to Problematic Internet Use, it is easy to DENY a problem exists (particularly during the early stages). We often hear parents say, "At least he's not out on the street using drugs," or "At least she's not hanging out with those other kids who are getting into trouble." Meanwhile, their son or daughter is spending excessive time online at the expense of their studies, social activities, and even health and hygiene. Or a spouse says, "I had no idea what he was doing, I thought he was working." Meanwhile, their partner has lost control engaging in online activities that pose major problems to their marriage.

Because computers are involved, as opposed to drugs or alcohol, it is understandable for people to look the other way, and to minimize the idea that a potential problem exists. Below are some concrete things to keep in mind to help determine if you or someone you know may be showing signs of a "problem."

Things to look for:

• Secretive use, lying about use
• Using approximately 24-30 hours or more per week (non-work/school related)
• Mood shifts when not using (e.g., increased irritability)
• Increase in arguments about excessive use with close others
• Work performance drops, or grades drop significantly
• Significant decrease in social, non-computer related activities
• Major sleep problems
• Neglecting important responsibilities
• Deterioration of health or hygiene due to computer-related use
• The above signs and symptoms have been present for at least 3 to 6 months

Can "Internet Addiction" be treated?

Fortunately, at Behavioral Associates, our staff has extensive experience working with a wide range of problems in many different contexts. We take a comprehensive approach to treatment, offering help to individuals, couples, and families dealing with problems such as Major Depression, as well as Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and other Anxiety problems.

Most importantly we have extensive experience in assessing and treating a wide range of addictive behaviors, including Problematic Internet and Computer/Video Game Use.

If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us for more information. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will be happy to answer your questions and, if needed, will arrange a consultation with you. Call us at (212) 860-8500.