Computer/Internet Addiction

Computers and the Internet have brought great convenience into our lives. However, there are corresponding difficulties. Some of our students may develop bad habits related to the use of computers, and this situation may cause significant problems in their lives. Because this kind of behavior and negative results are very similar to behavior known as attachment disorder, the term computer/Internet addiction is used.

Difficulties that may arise are mentioned below. Do any of these come close to describing you?

• Time spent using a computer/Internet is growing steadily.
• I feel anxious when I try to stop or reduce computer/Internet use.
• Friendships, school responsibilities, or health are negatively affected due to the use of computer/Internet.
• I spent a lot of time for required or unnecessary information research on the Internet.
• I'm not even aware of how the time passes when playing games or chatting on the computer/Internet.
• I get sleepless and avoid my daily responsibilities because of the use of computer/Internet.
• I've tried to stop or reduce my computer/Internet use before, but I failed.
• I receive negative criticism from those close to me related to time spent using the computer/Internet.
• I think life would be boring, unappealing, and empty without computer/Internet.
• I become angry with those who engage me when using computer/Internet.

In addition, computer- and Internet-related physical symptoms of addiction are as follows:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (a disturbance involving wrist numbness, pain, loss of sensation, and discomfort characterized by loss of force)
• Dry eyes
• Migraine headaches
• Back pains
• Nutrition disorder like meal skipping
• Inability to take care of personal hygiene
• Sleep disorders, change in sleep patterns

These sentences may bring to mind situations from your own life. If so, take our following advice. This will help you to clearly see clearly problem as well as show you the way to solve it.

What can I do?

• Write down everyday use of computer/Internet over the course of one week. How many hours per day do you use them? What are you doing (surfing the Internet, chat, games, etc.)?
• Think about what can you do besides using the computer/Internet and write this down too (sports, music, club activities, etc.)?
• Instead of doing these, think about why have you chosen to use the computer/Internet.
• Gradually replace use of computer/Internet with sports, music, and club activities.
• Get support from your family and friends to reduce your use of computer/Internet.
• Try to implement quality time by pre-planning activities during the time you spend using computer/Internet.