Internet Addiction

An internet addiction is a very real problem, and a big issue when it comes to gambling addictions as well. The internet can be a very useful tool and a terrific resource, but it can also be a dangerous place and a source of addiction for many. This type of disorder may be called many things, including Internet Addiction Disorder or IAD, computer addiction, online gambling addiction, and others. Problems with impulse control are the basis for this addictive behavior and it can cover a wide range of behaviors and activities.

When the internet has a damaging or destructive influence on your life then help and treatment is needed. Some of the most common addictive behaviors that occur over the internet include:

• Cybersex
• Gambling
• Shopping
• Stock trading
• Excessive use of auction websites
• Excessive social networking
• Compulsively searching the net for extended times
• Online game playing

Identifying Internet Addictions 

How can you identify one or more of these addictions that occur online? Just because you use the internet on a regular basis doesn’t mean you have an internet addiction. You may need to do a lot of research for your job, social media sites may let you stay in contact with distant friends and family, or you may need to spend a lot of time on the internet in order to do school work.

An internet addiction occurs when the use of this resource becomes excessive and it starts to interfere with your daily responsibilities, financial situation, or usual activities. When internet use starts to have negative life consequences but you continue with the same behaviors then an internet addiction is a real possibility.

Some possible risk factors that may increase your chances of an internet addiction include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Other addictions including substance abuse
• No social support
• During adolescence and the teen years
• High levels of stress
• Limited mobility or a very limited social circle

Treating any Type of Internet Addiction, Including a Gambling Addiction

The internet has made life much easier for most, but this tool is not without risks. Internet addictions, including an online gambling addiction or cybersex addiction, will destroy your life if you allow this behavior to go unchecked and if you do not seek help and get treatment. Effective treatment is available but each treatment facility may use various methods. Some potential treatments offered for gambling addiction and internet addiction include:

• Group counseling
• Individual therapy
• Marriage counseling
• Family counseling
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Internet addiction support groups and services
• Gambling addiction support groups and services

Here at Valiant Recovery we understand just how devastating an internet addiction or gambling addiction can be. We offer a luxury residential treatment program that addresses all of the important issues that contribute to any addiction that you may have. Most who suffer from one addiction also have others, and we provide a full spectrum of treatment options in order to help make you whole once more.