Overcoming Internet Addiction Before It Becomes Uncontrollable!!!

The Internet has become a regular daily activity for many people. While most people are able to regulate and control the amount of time they spend online each day, others become preoccupied with the Internet and are unable to manage their use of it, which can lead to significant problems in their lives.

The following information is provided to help you decide if you or a loved one may be struggling with Internet addiction.

Signs and Symptoms of Internet Addiction:
The signs and symptoms of Internet Addiction may vary from person to person. However, the following are common warning signs that may indicate you are at risk for Internet Addiction.

1. Losing track of time while on the computer.
2. Isolating oneself from family and friends.
3. Being unsuccessful when attempting to stop or limit your computer use.

4. Neglecting friends, family or responsibilities in order to be online.

5. Lying to your family, friends, or boss about the amount of time spent on the computer and what you do while on it.

6. Lying to people on your mobile phone that you are in a particular place whereas you are in another place at that particular time.

7. Feeling anxious, depressed, or irritable when your computer time is shortened or interrupted.

8. Relying on computer use to cope with negative feelings e.g., sadness, anger, frustration or as an outlet for sexual gratification.

9. Developing problems in school or on the job as a result of the time spent and the type of activities accessed on the computer.

10. Thinking about and anticipating next computer use frequently when you are not on the computer.

11. Experiencing physical discomfort and pain after excessive internet use. e.g. severe headaches, Back and neck pain, strained vision, Sleep disturbances etc.

The best way to overcome Internet Addiction:

1. Awareness of The Problem
The first, and perhaps most important, step in overcoming the problem of Internet Addiction is to recognize that the problem exists. As with other types of behavior that have become habitual, individuals suffering from Internet Addiction may not be conscious of the extent to which their behavior has become problematic. It is common for an individual to initially deny that the cost of Internet use outweighs its benefits, but this fact needs to be acknowledged in order for solution to be successful.

2. Increase Coping Skills
Everyone has different ways of coping with life's challenges. However, if Internet use is your sole coping strategy, it can leave you feeling lonely and make you to depend on its use as the only solution to your problems. Strengthening your skills in other areas, such as improving your interpersonal skills and communication skills can help you endure the stresses and strains of life without resorting to excessive Internet use.

3. Counseling can help you to examine and change the thoughts and behaviors that may be fueling your Internet Addiction, as well as provide you with healthier coping strategies. In addition, if you believe that challenges o your life such as depression, anxiety, loneliness, or drug or alcohol abuse, may be contributing to your Internet Addiction, counseling can address these problems as well.

Rotimi Onadipe +234- (0)8095899404 Email: [email protected]