The first steps to getting rid of an addiction is to:
Since Internet addiction is relatively new, it can be hard to find a real-life support group dedicated to the issue like Alcoholics Anonymous or Gamblers Anonymous. If that is a simultaneous problem for you, however, attending groups can help you work through your alcohol or gambling problems as well. Sex Addicts Anonymous may be another place to try if you are having trouble with cybersex. There may also be groups where you can work on social and coping skills, such as for anxiety or depression.
If you are trying to help the person with the addiction:
Below are some resources that you can use to help with the addiction:
Since Internet addiction is relatively new, it can be hard to find a real-life support group dedicated to the issue like Alcoholics Anonymous or Gamblers Anonymous. If that is a simultaneous problem for you, however, attending groups can help you work through your alcohol or gambling problems as well.
- Recognize any underlying problems that may support your Internet addiction.
- Build your coping skills.
- Strengthen your support network.
Since Internet addiction is relatively new, it can be hard to find a real-life support group dedicated to the issue like Alcoholics Anonymous or Gamblers Anonymous. If that is a simultaneous problem for you, however, attending groups can help you work through your alcohol or gambling problems as well. Sex Addicts Anonymous may be another place to try if you are having trouble with cybersex. There may also be groups where you can work on social and coping skills, such as for anxiety or depression.
If you are trying to help the person with the addiction:
- Be a good role model. Manage the Internet and computer use in your own life well.
- Introduce the Internet addict to other people who handle their Internet use sensibly.
- Get your friend involved in non-Internet related interests.
- Talk to your friend about your concerns with their Internet use.
- Support their desire for change if they think they have a problem.
- Encourage them to seek professional counseling.
Below are some resources that you can use to help with the addiction:
- http://psychcentral.com/netaddiction/
- http://www.netaddiction.com/
- http://www.bewebaware.ca/english/default.html
Since Internet addiction is relatively new, it can be hard to find a real-life support group dedicated to the issue like Alcoholics Anonymous or Gamblers Anonymous. If that is a simultaneous problem for you, however, attending groups can help you work through your alcohol or gambling problems as well.