AIIMS starts special psychiatric OPD to treat internet addiction

The All India Institute of Medical Sciences has started a special psychiatric OPD to treat internet addiction in people glued to social media and the internet.

According to doctors, a large number of school students were also suffering serious psychiatric issues due to the addiction and needed help, The Times of India reported.

Dr Yatan Pal Singh Balhara told TOI that depression, anxiety and substance abuse were common in patients addicted to internet.

Currently, 6-7 cases were being attended on a daily basis, while the psychiatrists believed that the cases would likely increase as awareness increased. Currently, the clinic was open for patients on Saturday, from 9am-2pm and the timings might be stretched according to the number of patients.

Dr Nand Kumar, additional professor in the psychiatry department of AIIMS told TOI: ''Cellphone addiction is another dangerous trend being observed. It is leading to short attention span, poor tolerance and decreased inter-personal communication.''