Are You Addicted to the Internet?

The Internet has become so central to our lives that it has become tricky to determine how much time on the Internet is too much.  We shop online…pay bills…check sports scores…play video games…visit chat rooms…and write on blogs.  In a nationwide telephone survey of 2,513 adults, researchers at Stanford University found that 69% were regular Internet users—and a significant percentage showed signs that their habits were out of control…

13.7 found it hard to stay away from the Internet for days at a time.

12.4% stayed online longer than intended very often or often.

8.7% attempted to conceal nonessential Internet use from family, friends and employers.

5.9% felt their relationships suffered because of excessive Internet use.

BREAKING THE HABIT
learning moderation is the key. Strategies…

Changing the timing.  If you log on first thing in the morning, wait until after breakfast or lunch instead.  If you tend to stay up too late while on the computer, establish a rule that you must turn it off at, say 8:00 PM.

Set Limits.  Limits. Limit session time (set a kitchen timer or alarm clock) or the number of sessions per day or week.

Put reminders near the computer, saying, “Are you done yet?” or “Do you know where your wife is?”

Cultivate off-line relationships.  Find ways to communicate and stay connected in person instead.

So. how about you?  Are you addicted to the Internet?  I would have to say that I am although I do REALLY enjoy getting away from it all and being outdoors away from phone, emails, etc.

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