Navigating the Nexus: Internet Addiction and ADHD Unveiled
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, the mix of technology and human behaviour has seen a rise in the connections between internet addiction and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Screens have become ever present in daily life and now feature in virtually everything that we do. The lines between leisure and compulsion are starting to easily blur raising questions about the links between internet addiction and medically diagnosed behavioural conditions.
Navigate the connections between internet addiction and ADHD further with New Leaf today. If you are concerned about a loved one’s internet habits, get in touch with our team.
What is Internet Addiction?
Internet addiction is often characterised by an excessive or uncontrollable tendency towards internet usage. There has been a surge in the growth of smartphones and video games that has also led to endless streams of content, social media updates and immersive gaming experiences that captivate the mind of young people.
Individuals of all ages are now finding themselves entangling in digital life, blurring the lines between moderate use and addiction. With this becoming increasingly harder to discern, be sure to seek help and advice if you think someone you love, or even your own behaviour is reflecting excessive internet usage.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD is a neurological disorder that brings about a number of challenges. It is often characterised by patterns of persistent lack of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behaviours. It can often be associated with difficulties in focusing on the tasks at hand and organisation.
For those that are diagnosed with ADHD, it can have a significant impact on their daily lives, sometimes finding it difficult to function in normal settings. Recent studies have shown that there is an intricate relationship between ADHD and the allure of the internet and digital worlds.
For further advice on ADHD, please contact your local GP.
The Onslaught of Smartphones & Gaming
The rapid rise in internet addiction is mirrored by that of smartphones and video gaming, with both sides growing rapidly from younger ages as well. The allure of smartphones, matched with the immersive world of gaming has intensified concerns about the attention spans of those with excessive use, particularly for those who already display ADHD tendencies.
The ideals and alluring features of the digital world can be a refuge for those who struggle with ADHD, highlighting the challenges they face in the real world further.
What is the Link Between ADHD and Internet Addiction?
Having looked at what both internet addiction and ADHD are separately, it is key to also explore the connections between them that are now being recognised.
Research over the last few years has indicated that the impulsive nature of someone with ADHD may be fuelling their tendency to succumb to the rewards offered on the internet, starting that cycle of excessive use. Those that also suffer with a lower attention span find themselves drawn to their smartphones and social media more so than video games.
Often, those who suffer with ADHD also have a lesser concept of time meaning that it can be far easier for them to get lost in the endless cycle of digital media.
Bournemouth University surveyed 150 adults in order to gather research data that explores these connections further. Read more from them here.
One of the rising statistics on this connection states that approximately 20% of young people and adults that struggle with ADHD also struggle with internet addiction.
Seeking a Solution for Internet Addiction
Addressing the rise in internet addiction takes a multifaceted approach, looking at educating people in this form of addiction and behaviour, increasing awareness of it, and helping provide strategies for healthier habits from early on.
By embracing healthier habits, taking time in the outdoors away from screens and cultivating mindfulness, these can help break the habits developed by excessive internet usage.
As the digital world continues to evolve and screens dominate every waking hour, the links between internet addiction and other medical conditions need to be explored further. Understanding more about these connections will become paramount for shaping a balance of sustainable online usage.
Contact New Leaf Today
Discover how New Leaf can help you with internet addiction today.
Whether you are unsure about your own behaviours with the internet or you are concerned about a loved one or friend, get in touch with New Leaf today. Our team are here to help you understand what internet addiction is and how you can start to break these behavioural addictions in order to turn over a new leaf.
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