Addiction Requires Abstinence

We are talking about the growing danger of Internet addiction. While treating addiction is never easy, abstinence appears to be the only option, and conventional wisdom dictates that recovery is possible once addicts stop using and go cold turkey.

Once they’re sober, recovered alcoholics aim to stay sober. Once they’re off drugs, former opioid addicts don’t abuse it but work to stay clean for life. How will this uncontrollable urge - stay connected online while disconnected in person end? CIU, PCU, PIU, IAD, IGD, PIU - it all stinks to me from this vantage point.

These are the terms. Problematic Internet use is also called compulsive Internet use, Internet overuse, problematic computer use, or pathological computer use, Internet addiction disorder. Another commonly associated pathology is video game addiction, or Internet gaming disorder, problematic Internet use.

These are the symptoms. Preoccupation with the Internet. Thoughts about previous online activity or anticipation of the next on-line session. Use of the Internet in increasing amounts of time in order to achieve satisfaction. Repeated, unsuccessful efforts to control, cut back or stop Internet use. Feelings of restlessness, moodiness, depression, or irritability when attempting to cut down the use of the Internet. On-line longer than originally intended. Jeopardized or risked a loss of significant relationships, job, educational or career opportunities because of Internet use. Lies to family members, therapists, or others to conceal the extent of involvement with the Internet. Use of the Internet is a way to escape from problems or to relieve a dysphoric mood. Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, anxiety, depression.

The first step is to determine if there is a problem. Certified Addictions Counselors who are trained in identification and treatment of Internet addiction can effectively perform an assessment to suggest the level of care most appropriate. For a free confidential assessment, contact PIA_ARCReferral@unitypoint.org

What you need to know about internet addiction https://youtu.be/vOSYmLER664

BBC News - Gaming addiction classified as disorder by WHO http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-42541404

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