3% of people addicted to exercise

About 3% of the Irish population suffers from exercise addiction, a leading psychiatrist said yesterday.

Internet gaming, over-exercise, the use of tanning beds and online shopping are new forms of addictions increasingly evident in Ireland. However, one of the biggest concerns among medical professionals is the growth in online gambling.

“Online gamblers can be active 24-7 with instantaneous access to funds until there is nothing left,” said Dr Colin O’Gara, consultant psychiatrist and head of addiction services at St John of God Hospital in Dublin.