Lifelines: Dr Alex Yellowlees on Internet addiction

THE underlying problem of addiction is ultimately the same at its core, no matter how the problem manifests itself. But there has been a change in the nature of the addictions that are being presented for help.

Common addictions, such as alcohol and drug dependency, continue to be prevalent, but there are more cases of addictions associated with our evolving and changing lifestyle patterns, such as the internet.

Increased availability and access to the internet has led to a growth in the popularity of social networking sites - with membership of Facebook soaring to over 60 million worldwide - which, by their nature, can become addictive. Users of such sites often start to derive their self worth from relationships with others on the net, which is when problems can develop.

NEW ADDICTION

My partner is obsessed with social networking sites and chat-rooms and spends hours a day at his computer. He used to have a drug problem but has been clean for several years. Is he becoming addicted again?

Any behaviour can become addictive when it begins to erode and replace other healthy activities. This is especially the case when it is causing harm to our lives in any form: health, financial, emotional wellbeing, etc. Obviously his computer use is having a major impact on your lives. The fact your partner has had drug dependency issues may make him more at risk of developing other dependent relationships either with other substances, people or other behaviours. These may seem less damaging or destructive than drugs but can often wreak havoc with a person's life and adversely affect those around them. It needs to be taken seriously and help sought.

VIRTUAL FRIENDS

My daughter is very shy and spends most of her time talking to people in chat-rooms. She never goes out and I worry that she has no real friends and is cutting herself off.

Social networking sites satisfy that basic human need to belong. This constant reassurance is coupled with a distancing from the stress of face-to-face conversation. People are at risk of developing unhealthy computer habits when they have anxiety problems, depression or lack an outside social network. This sounds like your daughter's issues. She should seek help for any other problems contributing to her excessive computer use, such as depression. In addition, encourage her to make real-life friends so she spends less time on the internet. She needs your support to break free from her computer and the virtual world she is living in.

OUT OF CONTROL

My husband gambles virtually all his wages on websites. He never gambled until he became hooked on these sites. What can I do to stop him bankrupting us?

Your husband must acknowledge his problem and have the determination and will power to overcome it.When gambling or trying to give up, feelings of shame, guilt, anger, anxiety and depression can occur. These should be discussed with a professional and your GP will refer you to someone who can help. You need to do everything you can to protect your family finances then concentrate your efforts on helping your husband to face up to his problem and supporting him through recovery.

Dr Alex Yellowlees is consultant psychiatrist and medical director of the Priory Hospital Glasgow (www.priorygroup.com)