Re: Internet and computer addiction explained by the Neuro-Interface theory from Wassenaar

My first post here so forgive me in advance if I break any rules or totally misunderstand the point of the forum.

Firstly, let me assure you that computer/internet "addiction" is real -- very real indeed.

I care not a jot whether the majority of "addicts" qualify as such under scientific or medical terms. It is enough for me that the resulting behaviour intrudes upon and dilutes their usual everyday functions, habits and responsibilities.

Since the age of seven, my main interest has been computers. Of course, at that age, it was more pushed upon me by my Dad who, like many at that time, equated computers with a vibrant work prospect for his child in the future. I am now thirty-four. Since that early age, I have never been without a computer.

To cut what could be a very verbose and pleonastic piece down to "forum size", I'll give you the end result:

To me, sitting at my computers, (Note that I now have quite a network to feed my addiction.) gives me the same feeling as one may get when sitting in their car after passing one's driving test. It's MY space and I can what I like within in, within the law of the land.

Today, I am, I estimate, in my eighth or ninth month of treatment (both chemical and verbal) for clinical depression, fighting the onset of agoraphobia and dealing with anxiety issues too. Would I have been doing this without the excessive computer use? Maybe -- who knows. I suspect not. (Note this is the second "burn out" in seven years.)

What I do know is that if you took my computers away then yes, I would feel that you were taking "me" away.

Quite why there isn't more support for computer addiction in the UK is beyond me. It will, as we are invited to port more and more of our daily lives to PDAs, mobile devices, etc, only get worse in a very short time.

I strongly advise anyone who thinks they or their partner are becoming addicted to the PC/Internet, to get help or try to cease it as soon as possible.

I promise you, the end result of not doing so is not worth the insular and nebulous satisfaction that the 'virtual world' provides.

I hope this helps someone.

junkbin_409@hotmail.com

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