Internet addiction therapists at Thriveworks in Littleton, CO collaborate with you to identify and alter thought patterns and behaviors that drive your dependence, often employing cognitive behavioral techniques. The primary objective of this counseling is to assist you in regaining control over your internet use, establishing healthier online habits, and addressing any underlying emotional or psychological issues, ultimately fostering a more balanced relationship with the digital world and enhancing overall well-being.
Internet Addiction Therapy and Counseling in Littleton, CO
Many people are struggling with big life challenges as well as compulsive Internet use. Addiction to the Internet is a growing mental health problem. If you think you might have an internet addiction or compulsive internet use, consider reaching out to Thriveworks Littleton. We have counselors who can help, and they’d love to support you. Call or book online today.
What Is Internet Addiction?
With smartphones and unlimited data plans, the Internet is more easily accessible than ever. Some people have no trouble unplugging. They can set their phone down, have a meal with friends, and not think twice about looking at their email. However, others struggle. They may use the Internet excessively or in a way that puts their personal or professional life at risk. Internet addiction shares many characteristics with other behavioral addictions—like gambling or shopping. Like other addictions, compulsive Internet use can have devastating effects in an individual’s life, but also like other addiction, compulsive Internet use has effective interventions.
The licensed therapists and counselors at Thriveworks in Littleton, CO have worked with many clients who are struggling with how, when, and where they are using the Internet. We have walked with them as they regain control and learn healthier coping skills.
What Are the Symptoms of Internet Addiction?
In 1998, Dr. Kimberly S. Young had outlined diagnostics for recognizing compulsive Internet use. If an individual has five of the following eight symptoms, they may have an Internet addiction:
- An obsession with being online or the Internet.
- The inability to curb Internet use or stop going online.
- Staying online for longer than one intended.
- Putting one’s professional or personal life at risk because of Internet use.
- Managing one’s mood with the Internet.
- Increased time spent online in order to feel satisfied with one’s use.
- Feeling moody, irritable, or depressed when unable to use the Internet.
- Deceiving loved ones about when and/or how much one uses the Internet.
Being online too much or taking unnecessary risks on the Internet can have difficult consequences in real life. When people are addicted to the Internet, they often display certain physical and emotional signs. The experienced counselors and therapists at Thriveworks in Littleton, CO will be on the lookout for these symptoms.
Effects of Internet Addiction
Physically, being online compulsively can lead to difficulties like:
- Poor personal hygiene (e.g., not bathing)
- Backache
- Weight gain or loss
- Insomnia
- Dry eyes and other vision problems
- Poor nutrition (forgetting to eat or eating excessively)
- Neck pain
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Headaches
Emotionally, being online compulsively can lead to difficulties like:
- Depression
- Avoidance of work
- Loneliness
- Feelings of guilt
- Isolation
- Losing a sense of time
- Defensiveness
- Agitation
- Fear
- Feelings of elation when using the Internet
- Mood swings
- Dishonesty
- Boredom
- Anxiety
- Procrastination
- Inability to keep to a schedule
What Are the Types of Internet Addiction?
Mental health professionals like those at Thriveworks in Littleton, CO also came to see that Internet addiction can manifest itself in a variety of ways. Dr. Young also formulated subcategories of Internet addiction, including the following:
- Net compulsions: Compulsively shopping, gambling, or day-trading on the Internet.
- Information addiction: Endlessly searching databases, looking at social media, and surfing websites.
- Computer addiction: Obsessively playing video games online.
- Cybersex addiction: Compulsively using the Internet for porn and/or sex.
- Cyber-relationship addiction: An obsession with online relationships.
Get Help for Internet Addiction at Thriveworks in Littleton, CO
Are you struggling with your Internet use? If you are ready to meet with a licensed therapist to talk about your issue, Thriveworks in Littleton, CO offers appointments for Internet addiction. When you contact our office, a scheduling specialist will answer your call and help you make an appointment. Weekend and evening sessions are offered, and we accept many different insurance plans. Call today.
