Center of Psychological Effectiveness
January 2009
Join Our Mailing List 
Forward to a Friend 
More About C.O.P.E.  
Click for more info
 


 
 

 
  
 
 
power and wisdom book  
Life Solutions
www.solutionsnottalk.com  
(954) 583-8831
(800) 714-COPE (2673)  
 

Internet Addiction

By: Linda A. Kaye LMHC, CAP

 
Only a few years ago, most people who spent much time on the internet were employees of the computer science and technology industries.  At present, the research shows that internet use has skyrocketed and, in addition to its work applications, become a social and networking pastime.  Being that many people use the Internet as part of their work, recognizing the difference between normal use and excessive use becomes difficult.  The mental health field has noted that some people "surfing" the web are doing so in a habitual, out-of-control manner.  As with any addiction, such as to alcohol, drugs, or gambling, this compulsive use of the Internet can create a dependency on seeking the "high" or "rush" to the point at which it becomes a life-controlling problem.  People may use the Internet based upon their interests, such as shopping, pornography, and chat rooms, and their satisfaction is derived from the stimulation that the Internet provides.
 
Internet addiction has been compared with other impulse control disorders and is widespread in many countries.  If you suspect that your Internet use may be interfering with your life goals, here are some questions to ask yourself:
 
  • Do you think about the Internet most of the time and anticipate your next online session? 
  • Do you become restless when the Internet is not available?
  • Have you been using the Internet for longer amounts of time to achieve the same level of heightened satisfaction?
  • Have you made several attempts to control or decrease Internet use?
  • Do you feel depressed or irritable when attempting to cut down?
  • Do you stay on the Internet for longer periods of time than originally intended?
  • Has the Internet use jeopardized your relationships, job, healthy lifestyle choices and other opportunities?
  • Do you lie to family members and/or friends to cover-up your Internet use?
  • Do you surf the web and stay connected online to avoid facing problems or relieving irritability or anxiety?
Treatment for Internet addiction utilizes a Cognitive-Behavioral based approach to address what can be considered problem use.  Another goal of treatment is relapse prevention to address patterns of thinking, emotional reactions, behaviors, and life situations that lead to relapse.  The Center offers affordable services covered by insurance. We look forward to meeting you.