Psychiatrists Warn Against IT Devices

Psychiatrists have expressed worry over the excessive use of information technology (IG) devices, saying they pose grave danger to users.

At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Association of Resident Doctors, Federal  Neuro-Psychiatric  Hospital (FNRH), Yaba, the Psychiatrists said, devices such as lap tops, radio, television and video games, phones and social networks could be addictive, saying however that there were also much benefit to be derived from their use.

Speaking on the theme: “Information Technology, The New Drug of Addiction. President of the Association, Maymunah Kadri, said addiction to these devices cuts across all ages.

Kadri explained that studies have shown that such addictions led to marital disputes, loss of good habits, poor work and academic performance, shallow relationships, lack of personal hygiene and good socialisation.

According to him,. “when  a person is addicted to social networks, television and the internet, he or she often forgets to do any other thing use-some people do forget their personal bygiene and food. Some do not bother to interact with other people and discord between husband and wife ensues.”

Also speaking, Consultant Psychiatrist, Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Aro, Abeokuta, Niran Okewola said many good things emerged from information technology, adding however that caution must not be thrown to the winds.

“We have got to be very careful about the prices we pay”, he added.

He warned that social networking sites might reduce empathy, saying that being addicted to IT devices could produce just the same devastating result as addiction to drugs alcohol or gambling.

Tonye Nria-Dappa