Internet Addiction
Is There Really Such A Thing As “Internet Addiction”?
Absolutely (and unfortunately), yes. In the last fifteen years a great deal of research has been devoted to studying this unusual form of addiction. Like all addictions, there is a neurological component to the disorder. In fact, with this particular addiction the neurological component has more “synch” with the behavior of the addiction. As our brains have adapted to changes in media, our attention spans waning, and our physical activities lessoning, Internet use has exponentially increased. As with all patternistic exercises there is an effect. Internet addiction can happen quickly and many times individuals suffer from it without even knowing. Do you (or have you):
- Lost sleep because you stayed up later on the Internet than you intended?
- Lost significant relationships in your life (work, friends, or family) because of your Internet use?
- Had people tell you that you have a problem?
- Created a double life or false life on the Internet?
- Use the Internet as a way of escaping problems?
- Neglected your family, housework, or home life to stay on the Internet?
- Had an online affair?
- Gambled online?
- Had cybersex with multiple strangers?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these, you have allowed your Internet usage to become unhealthy. If you answered “yes” to all of them you may have an Internet addiction.
It Only Gets Worse Without Treatment
Addictive behavior by its very nature progresses to an un-pleasurable end result. If you haven’t yet created alternate personas, you probably will. If you haven’t had sleep insomnia driven by your disorder, you probably will. Internet addiction is the cause of relationship problems, work issues, social problems, and even health issues. It is every bit as real an addiction as alcohol. If you cannot stop without it causing stress, anxiety, or anguish…it’s a problem.
Seek Help Before It Affects Your Existing Relationships
Seeking treatment for your addiction before it has dismantled your life and relationships is the smartest thing you can do for yourself. Take ownership of your life by addressing the issue and getting help. Don’t dismiss this as normal, or “okay”. Anything that prevents you from having normal human relations with your loved ones, anything that prevents sleep, anything that affects your job needs to be addressed before it is too late—not after!
Call us on 877-403 3381 today to speak to a counselor about your addiction issues. Addiction hotlines hear cases like yours every day. They will help you find the appropriate treatment facility or counselor that can address your issues.
