(n.d.). Retrieved from http://cuongdang.info/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/InternetAddiction.jpg.
Internet Addiction is a serious problem that affects people
both physically and mentally. There are many negative health consequences
caused by Internet addiction.
The mental effects of internet addiction include:
depression, brain damage, and sleep deprivation.
Depression is a major factor of internet addiction. People
begin replacing real life social interactions with online interactions, and
becoming addicting to online things which are not real can lead to great
depression in real life. You can read more about Depression linked to Internet
addiction in a previous blog post found here: http://internetaddiction6.blogspot.com/2013/11/could-excessive-internet-use-link-to.html
In studies, it has been found that Internet addiction can
lead to brain damage similar to the brains of those exposed to alcohol,
cocaine, and marijuana. Scientists believe that being hooked on a behavior can
be just as physically damaging as being hooked on drugs. Brain scans of internet addicts show
disruption to "white matter" nerve fibers that connect vital parts of
the brain, such as emotions, decision-making, and self control.
Sleep deprivation is also a major effect of Internet
addiction. Staring at a lighted screen for extended periods of time has shown
to cause symptoms of insomnia and disrupted sleep rhythms. Extensive computer
use has also been shown to have effects on later bed times, less restful sleep,
waking up late, and an overall decrease in sleep.
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(n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.addiction-treatment.com/wp-content/uploads/internet-addiction.jpg.
On top of the shocking mental effects of Internet addiction, there are also many physical effects:
·
Weight-gain and a decline in personal hygiene
-Caused by less physical activity and laziness while being in front of a
computer
·
Weaker immune systems
-Not getting out much because you're in front of a computer all the
time, won't expose you to germs and natural things that would strengthen your
immune system normally
·
Back aches
-
Spending the majority of your time sitting in front of a computer will
eventually cause back problems from slouching and leaning forward too much.
·
Dry eyes and Migraines
- These two are caused by the lit up
computer screen. Eventually your eyes will start burning and become dry leading
to migraines.
(n.d.). Retrieved from
On top of all the mental and physical effects of Internet addiction, it can also negatively impact your everyday life. Negative life consequences of Internet
addiction include:
·
Losing your job
-Spending too much time online can cause
you to suffer in the work place and eventually lose your job
·
Ruining your marriage
-Internet addiction can cause strain on a
marriage and may eventually end up in divorce
·
Becoming financially in debt
-Online gambling and online gaming addicts
may have the biggest problem with becoming financially in debt.
·
Academic failure
-Not going to classes or studying because
you are too busy being addicted to the Internet can cause serious failure in
your academics and future career.
Not only does Internet addiction cause dreadful mental
problems and appalling physical repercussions, it can affect and ruin the
outcome of your life and future.
Sources
Cocke, A. (2010, May 29). Retrieved from http://www.livestrong.com/article/134688-internet-addiction-health-effects/.
Waugh, R. (2012, January 12). Retrieved from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2085369/Internet-addiction-cause-physical-damage-brain-just-like-drugs-say-researchers.html.
