1. Social media addiction is commonly called Internet Addiction Disorder. However, it is not
formally recognized as a disorder by healthcare professionals. According to addiction.com “Even if
addiction to different types of technology isn’t yet a recognized disorder on its own, the problem has
been on the radar of health professionals since the 1990s”. they also said “surveys in the U.S. and
Europe show that between 1.5% and 8.2% of the population suffers from Internet addiction.” According
to Hilarie Cash, PhD., co-founder of the ReSTART Internet Addiction Recovery Program, symptoms can
include:
• Compulsive checking of text messages
• Frequent changing of social media status and constantly posting
• A feeling of euphoria while on the Web
• Social withdrawal
• Loss of interest in activities that don’t involve a computer, phone or gadget
• Feelings of restlessness when unable to go online
She also stated that addicts get a “high” similar to that of other kinds of addictions when they stay
online for several hours a day.
