Dangers of Unlimited Internet Access at Home

We live in a connected world now more than ever. The advent of the internet, world-wide connectivity, and a wealth of information, resources, and entertainment at our fingertips should make our world easier to navigate than ever before.

Or does it?

With all of that power comes the need for responsibility. Recent statistics show that internet users spend an alarming 6 hours and 42 minutes of surfing time daily, with even more spent on leisurely and somewhat damaging social media platforms. We may be gleaning more information and entertainment now than ever before, but what it is doing to our minds, bodies, and overall health? Read on to see how your internet use may potentially be harming you, as well as find some resources for responsible web use that will once again turn the tables in your favor:

Ways That Internet Use May be Damaging and Dangerous

When you log in for the day, do you give thought to the culture that you create surrounding your world window? Many internet fans develop unhealthy patterns of eating, drinking, and even sleeping around computer use, preferring instead to snack or to forego sleep in favor of the latest online game. As a result, we may gain weight, develop back and neck problems, and suffer from poor sleep as a result of all the extra sitting.

Computer users and those who find themselves typing at the keyboard all day long may develop a condition called carpal tunnel, whereby the muscles and tendons across the backs of the hands and the forearms become strained and difficult to move. Once developed, the only prescription for strained tendons and muscles is physical therapy and rest, both of which are difficult to maintain if we keep sitting down at the keyboard.

There is a risk of developing depression and anxiety with increased internet usage. Users report higher feelings of anxiety and a loss of interest in joining the real world, as well as an avoidance of certain daily activities that they used to enjoy.

Excessive internet use may lead to other addictive behaviors. Overeating, access to pornography, and online gaming forums beg those with access to join in on the activity. Social media addiction has become a real phenomenon as well, with people feeling as if they have to post, comment, or like content that is anything but real life. Problematic behaviors, thoughts, and patterns develop that keep us coming back for more.

We may become victims—-or perpetrators—-of online criminal activity. Like it or not, cyberbullying is a real crime, affecting millions of children, teens, and even adults, each year. Excessive cyberbullying and victimization can lead someone to go to drastic lengths to stop the vicious cycle; many cyberbullying attacks have unfortunately ended in a loss of life for those who felt that they could not speak up and break the patterns that kept them coming back to the screen. Excessive internet use can wreak havoc on your health, your finances, and even your relationships as you trade real interaction with loved ones for time at the computer. While some internet use is necessary in today’s world, we want to ensure that you have the tools and resources needed to stay connected while finding that balance between work, play, and real life unplugged. NodeOne’s NBN plans encourage safe and healthy internet use and offer solutions that fit all needs and budgets. We have incredible opportunities at our fingertips, and with responsible and balanced use of the internet, we can significantly impact and improve the quality of life for ourselves and others. Happy and safe surfing!