Are YOU an INTERNET ADDICT?

When a person's major focus in on one behavior only, he may be suffering from a behavioral addiction. This addiction includes, among other things, gambling, shopping, watching pornography, work, and using computer and the Internet.

Let's talk about computers and the Internet. They are a necessity for today's generation. Computers and the Internet are needed in the workplace, in school, and at home. But the Internet has it's own downside too. When you become so attached to the computer that you start to live in an artificial world, your physical, emotional and spiritual health is in danger.

Knowing the early signs of computer and Internet addiction in a spouse, a brother or a sister, a friend, a colleague, or even yourself is of extreme importance.

But HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT YOU HAVE TOO MUCH OF COMPUTER OR THE INTERNET? If you answer YES to at least 7 of the questions below, it is enough for you to be diagnosed as having a pathological Internet addiction.

1. Do I lose interest in the other activities I used to engage in?
2. Would I rather miss my regular meals than miss the Internet?
3. Am I craving for more time online and feel restless when not engaged?
4. Do I feel irritable and aggressive when interrupted or when the connection is low?
5. Do I stay in the computer longer than intended?
6. Am I neglecting family and friends and/or responsibilities in order to be online?
7. Is my Internet use interfering with my job or school activities?
8. Do I use the Internet as an outlet when lonely, upset or sad?
9. Do I lie about the amount of time I spend on the Internet and what I am browsing?
10. Am I sleeping late because of Internet browsing?

So, how do you avoid computer and Internet addiction? Here are some suggestions:

1. Parents should be role models for their children.
2. Put the computer in a common place in the house like the living room so that parents can easily keep an eye on their children's use, thus helping them to avoid visiting undesirable websites.
3. Have family meals at the table at regular times.
4. Get involved in sports. Develop a healthy relationship with your team.
5. Go to bed on time to get a good night's rest.
6. Develop a strong network of friends. This provides mental and emotional support.
7. Plan for family activities.
8. Limit computer use. List the things you need in the web, set an alarm clock to be sure you get off when it sounds. Stick to your set time.
9. Be aware of the warning signs of addiction.
10. Seek professional help.
11. Most of all, submit yourself to God. Ask Him to help you detach yourself from the excitement of computer and the Internet.

Computer and the Internet are no doubt necessities. But they can also ruin lives and relationships if not handled responsibly.

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Thanks to : HEALTH&HOME (Jul-Aug 2010)

Evelyn Villaflor-Almocera