Personal psychological environment of an average individual has been changed dramatically within the last 20 years thanks to Internet services, mobile devices, computers and gadgets. The changes were not always positive for the mental health. According to different studies, about 10% of IT users are still poorly adapted to the modern technologies. Here are some possible side effects of using the IT:
- self isolation;
- self neglect;
- self harm;
- difficulties in education;
- mental traumas;
- reducing of work efficiency;
- family problems;
- asocial behavior.
The most common mental problems caused by the IT are addictions to technologies and services, including games, socializing services, porn resources, online auctions etc. Even if the addictions are not strong, or they are almost overcome, they still may have long-term consequences, including:
- decline of interpersonal communication skills;
- deviations of physical and emotional development of children;
- sexual problems.
The IT Mental Safety Institute (IMSI) works to make public aware of these threats and to suggest measures for eliminating them.
