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Internet addiction disorder and social media addiction

This page covers the definitions of internet addiction disorder, problematic internet use and pathological internet use, as well as the support and resources available to you.

What is internet addiction disorder?

Internet addiction disorder is defined by a compulsive overuse of the internet and a lack of control over internet usage. This disorder encompasses use of social media platforms and websites.

Compulsions to use the internet can occur on any electronic device, such as a mobile phone, laptop, tablet or PC (computer). Using the internet to a degree that is negatively impacting your everyday life, but feeling unable to stop, indicates an internet addiction disorder. 

Overuse of the internet and social media platforms can cause damage to both your mental and physical health. The short-term and long-term risks of internet addiction disorder include, but are not limited to:


Resources and support

If you are experiencing problems relating to internet use, or know someone who is, please remember that you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support at UCL as a registered student. Our empathetic team can support you to find the best treatment method for your needs.

There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with internet addiction disorder and addiction.

Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous

Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support recovery from internet addiction disorder, social media addiction, gaming addiction, pornography addiction and online shopping addiction.

You can join an ITAA online meeting or an in-person local support group using the search tool.

You can email the organisation at helpline@gaais.org.

Forest app

The Forest app is designed to improve your focus and productivity.

Similar to a Pomodoro timer, the app adds the fun visual stimulation of planting a tree when you open the app. You can focus on a task and watch the sapling, earning virtual coins as the tree grows. Forest is partnered with a tree planting organisation, Trees for the Future, so that users can spend virtual coins to plant real trees on earth. 

Visit the Forest website for more information and to download the app.

One Sec app

The One Sec app is scientifically proven to reduce screen time and social media usage. 

When you open a social media app, One Sec gives you the chance to pause and take a moment to think. You can then choose to either proceed onto the app, close the app, or explore suggestions of other activities you could do instead. You can also use One Sec to block websites.

Visit the One Sec website for more information and to download the app.

Rehab 4 Addiction

Rehab 4 Addiction is an advisory and referral service for people who suffer from alcohol, drug and behavioural addiction.

Rehab 4 Addiction works closely with rehabilitation centres and outpatient clinics throughout the United Kingdom, and the admissions team matches a patients’ addiction with an appropriately placed rehabilitation centre. They offer rehabilitation centres patient referrals and always prioritise the needs of the specific patient when doing so. They maintain a substantial network of rehabilitation centres throughout the United Kingdom, including private rehabilitation centres and the NHS.

You can call Rehab 4 Addiction to make an enquiry on +44 (0)800 140 4690. 

Visit the Rehab 4 Addiction website.

UK SMART Recovery

UK SMART Recovery is a charity offering Self-Help Addiction Recovery Programmes for drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, food, shopping, internet and more.

The four-point programme is designed to help participants: 

  • Build and maintain motivation.
  • Cope with urges.
  • Manage thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
  • Live a balanced life.

You can use the search tool to find an in-person meeting in your local area or an online meeting.

Visit the SMART Recovery website.