Internet addiction and isolation often coincide when an individual spends most of their time alone and online. As technology advances and young people become increasingly present online, internet addiction becomes even more of a widespread issue. Learn more about social isolation, internet addiction, and how Avalon Malibu aims to heal the root cause of addiction so you can live a fuller, more social life.
Normal Introversion vs. Social Isolation
Introverts are sometimes mistaken as people in need of social interaction or even incapable of doing so. However, this isn’t true at all. They are often completely healthy in their desire for alone time. Enjoying solitude is much different than fearing social interaction. This is where social isolation comes into play. When someone self-isolates, they cut off ties with friends and loved ones and insist on being alone even if they want social interaction.
Social isolation can be both a cause and a symptom of depression. This self-imposed isolation only makes their depression worse, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms. There are various reasons why some people isolate themselves. This includes feeling scared or worried about embarrassing themselves, feeling misunderstood, or even feeling like others don’t care to be with them. Whatever the reason, social isolation can become dangerous if left untreated.
Understanding Internet Addiction Disorder
While internet addiction disorder is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (commonly referred to as the DSM-5), it is still considered a prevalent mental health concern. Internet addiction disorder can be defined as a need or urge to go online despite negative impacts on daily life, including career and relationships. This addiction is often also called pathological internet use, internet dependence, or compulsive computer use.
Some mental health experts agree that excessive Internet use is not its own disorder but rather a symptom of other mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety. However, cases of internet addiction disorder do contain the basic elements of addiction. These characteristics include a loss of control, tolerance, withdrawal, and continuing internet use despite adverse outcomes.
While the U.S. government has not made any public statements of concern over internet addiction, countries like China and South Korea have declared this addiction disorder a public health threat.
