Cyber addiction, a social malady

The recent opening of an outpatient department (OPD) in the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, for cyber addiction is a sign of the seriousness of a social malady which is fast spreading in the country. Though doctors and counsellors have dealt with what is called Problematic Internet Use (PIU) and other names, this is the first time that a psychiatric OPD has been set up in the country to treat this emerging medical problem. Prolonged and compulsive use of computers and mobile phones for social media activities, playing games, gambling and watching videos, apart from academic pursuits and entertainment, is now leading to physical and mental disorders which call for treatment. As is well-known, young people of school and college-going age are most vulnerable to the addiction but older people also develop the habit. Depression, anxiety, neglect of academic and daily life activities, withdrawal from the world and su-bstance abuse are among the psychological consequences. Disruption of sleep, eating disorders, eyesight problems and ailments caused by sedentary habits are among the physical problems. PIU has also caused breakup of marriages, loss of jobs and financial debts in many cases.

It may seem a contradiction that the cyberworld, which gives instant and almost unlimited connectivity with the outside world, also has a deleterious impact on its users. Social media satisfies social instincts which are basic to human nature but excessive preoccupation with it is hurtful and damaging. Friendships, social activities and communication offer opportunities to individuals for healthy and necessary interaction with the real, outside world. But, with excessive use of social media, the process gets reversed and the activity becomes self-centred and narcissistic by drawing the world’s attention to oneself. It becomes delusional, too, and the relative unreality of the cyberworld acts on the mind. Human beings need actual interaction with each other and the real world to keep their physical and mental health.

Doctors have said that complaints of dysfunctional behaviour are steadily increasing and, in some cases, even hospitalisation is needed. Hospitals in other parts of the country may also have to start facilities for treating cyber addiction as the habit is strong everywhere. Since prevention is better than cure, doctors have advised controlled and disciplined use of internet, especially for youngsters. Parents have a major responsibility in this. Schools also have an important role in creating awareness among students about the dangers of excessive indulgence in the cyberworld. Computers and mobile phones are great gadgets but we should not become their attachments and allow them to dictate our lives.