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Screen and Internet Addiction

Excessive screen use that interferes with daily life

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Screen and Internet Addiction?

Screen addiction is not a single DSM-5 diagnosis. Internet gaming disorder appears as a condition for further study, and the WHO recognizes gaming disorder in ICD-11. The shared pattern is loss of control over use, increasing priority of screen activity over other interests, and continued use despite negative consequences in school, work, social functioning, sleep, or physical health.

Risk factors include male sex (for gaming), pre-existing depression, anxiety, ADHD, low self-esteem, and family conflict. Adolescents are especially vulnerable because of an immature prefrontal cortex and a strong reward response to social media feedback. Sleep deprivation amplifies emotional dysregulation and academic decline, creating a self-reinforcing loop.

Treatment is mostly behavioral and family-based. Screen-time agreements, removal of devices from bedrooms, structured offline activities, and addressing underlying conditions (depression, ADHD, social anxiety) are core elements. Severe cases benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy specifically adapted for internet addiction (CBT-IA). Pharmacotherapy is reserved for clear comorbid disorders.

Symptoms

Loss of control over screen-time duration
Withdrawal symptoms when devices are unavailable
Neglect of school, work, hygiene, or family
Sleep deprivation due to nighttime use
Lying about use or hiding use
Mood changes, irritability, or social withdrawal

Risk Factors

Pre-existing depression, anxiety, or ADHD
Male sex (for gaming disorder)
Adolescence and early adulthood
Family conflict or low parental supervision
Loneliness or social difficulty

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Significant decline in school or work performance
  • Sleep deprivation due to nighttime screen use
  • Withdrawal from offline relationships and activities
  • Mood symptoms or anxiety related to screens
  • Family conflict centered on screen use

Treatment Methods

01
Family-based behavioral plan with structured screen-time limits
02
Devices out of the bedroom and away from meals
03
Treatment of underlying depression, anxiety, or ADHD
04
Cognitive behavioral therapy for internet addiction (CBT-IA)
05
Replacement activities (sport, hobbies, in-person socializing)
06
Sleep hygiene restoration
07
Parental psychoeducation on digital health

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.