Internet addiction is a highly misunderstood compulsive behavior that rarely gets any sort of representation that it deserves. Even though it does not show up as dramatic as substance addiction, it is still one of the deadliest forms of addiction.
A person struggling with this problem tends to lose track of time while using a phone or simply cannot focus on anything other than internet activity, such as playing games on Stake or other similar platforms, and ceases to be productive.
We would like to draw more attention to the real problem at hand and learn some techniques that can help you battle your internet addiction. But first, let us understand the fundamentals so that you can approach the subject with more clarity and context.
Definition & Consequences Of Internet Addiction
What constitutes an internet addiction? In the simplest of terms, internet addiction is an obsessive behavior where a person’s internet surfing habits become problematic to the point where he or she becomes overtly dependent on the internet.
While some experts suggest that internet addiction is a part of social media addiction, it is reductive. While both of them are problematic in their respect, Internet addiction is a broader problem where an individual is not just focused on social media, but on other things as well.
A person with internet addiction is not limited to social media, but has other interests as well, like online casino games and platforms like best RTP slots, betting platforms, etc. All of which target a specific part of the human brain to release dopamine, making it harder to break the cycle.
The general consequences of internet addiction are varied. However, here are some that researchers across the board have noticed:
- Developing back pain from prolonged periods of inactivity.
- Obsessive fixation on what is going on online.
- Losing out on social obligations due to negligence.
- Rapid weight loss or gain due to inactivity and other unhealthy habits.
- Withdrawal syndrome due to non-use.
How To Handle Internet Addiction
Handling internet addiction is much more than just reducing screen time. It is as complicated as dealing with other forms of addictions that take an equal toll on a human mind.
You cannot expect to see any positive results if you do not approach the topic with a clear sense of understanding and context. Hence, in this section, we will examine some methods to prevent internet addiction.
One small piece of advice: dealing with an addiction requires a sense of professional clarity. While we have done our research on what works, in extreme cases, the individual affected can only be helped by a professional.
Hence, temper your expectations and follow along.
Acknowledge the addiction
The first step is to acknowledge the problem. Many people down with this ailment tend to veer away from the truth. We do not blame them since denial is easier than acceptance.
However, to be on the road to recovery, you must begin with a sense of acknowledgement. This means that you must accept and view your problem in a new light. Otherwise, nothing would be of use.
Consider professional help
As we have stated earlier, reading a blog on wellness online is beneficial, but nothing beats professional help. Professional help can help you in ways you cannot imagine. Therefore, the next step is to contact a professional who can assist you.
Additionally, hiring a professional puts a clear endgame plan in your head. This suggests that you have a clear goal and are willing to work towards it, regardless of the circumstances. Therefore, don’t waste a minute and start your journey professionally with the right kind of help.
Create a schedule
A general lack of a schedule is a breeding ground for addiction. A schedule or a structure is like a blueprint of a person’s life. Even though it feels great to live life without a structure, it can lead to the development of addictions over time.
Therefore, ration your time and structure your day. This is essential, as it will help you compartmentalize your day and make things work more smoothly. It enables you to stay ahead of time and maintain an overall balanced life.
Practice mindfulness
Mindfulness is something that most people generally lack. City life has mostly made us into walking, talking, and functional zombies who go through their lives on autopilot mode. This is a real problem that you must address on this journey.
Being mindful is just being present in the moment. Being present for the people around you and yourself. All of which add a layer to your healing journey. It is also about being open and receptive to new experiences and gaining a deeper understanding.
Set device-free times
While people might criticise the move as childish, this can be quite effective. Setting device-free times allows your mind and body to detoxify from the poison of the internet.
Device-free times don’t have to be boring or mundane. We are not asking you to stare at the wall blankly or anything like that. What we want is for you to develop hobbies and passions that don’t involve staring at a screen.
Hit the gym, hang out with people, play chess in the park, buy a motorcycle, etc. The possibilities are truly endless.
Identify triggers
Addiction works on triggers. This means that there is something that triggers an individual to get into that cycle. The triggers come in various shapes and sizes. While some triggers can be emotionally driven, others can be physically or externally motivated.
To find the triggers is to find your Achilles heel. Therefore, avoiding that and finding alternative means can make things better for people battling this form of addiction. Finding the right emotional support to navigate these triggers can also help you deal with this with a greater sense of clarity.
The Endgame
Always remember that you must have an endgame in mind if you are battling an addiction. You cannot be in a perpetual state of healing with no endgame in mind. Therefore, do not be a feather blowing in the wind.
Take charge of what is to come and react accordingly. This is the final, yet most important, aspect of a healing journey. Another point that we would like to mention is that everyone’s healing journey will be different, so factor that in as well.
