How To Avoid Internet Addiction

Avoid internet addiction

The internet has become an integral part of our daily life. It has changed the way we communicate, do business, live and do other facets of our lives. The availability and accessibility of smartphones have made it easier to hook onto the internet, but what is supposed to be a boon is slowly becoming a bane as more and more people are becoming addicted to it.

 

Internet addiction is an existing widely spread and serious illness. It is dangerous because you have no idea that it is creeping up on you. Bearing in mind the technological advances we are making daily, it is important that an addiction to the internet is taken seriously and avoided by all means. Below are ways you can notice and avoid internet addiction:

 

1. Recognise the addiction :


The first step is to recognise that you are addicted to the internet. You can do this by taking note of how long you are on the internet and what part of it was for work and what part was not. If the bulk of your daily hours on the internet is not for work or work-related things, there is a chance you are addicted. This is especially so if the bulk of the time is spent on social media platforms.

 

If you find that you are addicted or close to being, admit it and work on it. 
     

 

2. Seek solutions :


Now that you know of the addiction, think of ways to cure yourself of it. You can take drastic steps like deleting the social media apps you feel you spend too much time on or you can take it slow by setting time limits.

 

The time limits can be increased as time goes by till you find that you are back in control of your internet usage. Make a to-do list. This will make sure you remain productive as you battle the addiction.

 

3. Get a to-do list :


As said earlier, have a written and well-laid plan for your day, week and month. This schedule must include sleep and rest time as internet addiction can eat into your sleep and rest time. This would, in the long run, can be very injurious to your health. Follow your timetable religiously, have enough sleep and eat right to remain productive and keep your mind healthy. 

 

4. Go out more :


You can fight the addiction by making a conscious decision to go out more, meet people and spend time with them. Visit the gym, make a plan to meet your old friends.

 

If you can, join a support group to help you with the addiction. The key is to replace the addiction with other activities. Activities that would aid your mental and physical health and development and help you lessen your time wasted.

 

5. When all fails, consider getting a counsellor :


If the problem persists, you need to seriously consider getting professional help. Look for a good counsellor, preferably one that is experienced with this particular addiction. S/he would be able to create a plan that fits the type of person you are and your level of addiction.

 

Addictions are not to be disregarded nor should you be ashamed. Internet addiction is serious and should be treated as such. You should also avoid falling into the trap of replacing a vice with another vice. As you look to cure yourself of internet addiction, make sure you have a ready replacement because nature abhors a vacuum. Fill that time you are saving with activities that are of immense benefit to your growth.