How to Live With a Computer Addict

Being addicted to your computer can destroy your relationship.

Living with a person who has an addiction can be disheartening. You want to help them, yell at them or leave them, but you just aren't sure which one. Someone with a computer addiction can be even more frustrating, because the source of the addiction seems to be innocent. Finding ways to help your partner can help you deal with this difficult but very real addiction.

Instructions

1. Determine if your significant other has any underlying issues, such as depression or extreme stress, contributing to his computer addiction. Escape from his more serious problems could be the reason for the computer addiction.

2. Talk to your significant other about the problem. It is possible she does not realize she is spending so much time using the computer surfing the Internet. Point out the amount of time being spent on the computer and how it is affecting your relationship.

3. Help your significant other find hobbies or interests outside of the computer, especially activities you can do together. Start an exercise program together, join a book club or take a class together to get her out of the house and away from the computer.

4. Set a timer when your significant other is on the computer so he can see the amount of time spent on the device. Agree upon a set amount of time per night he can spend on the computer and turn the computer off after the limit has been reached.

5. Ask your significant other to talk to a trained professional or counselor if the problem is not solved or gets worse. Addiction is a sickness. Your significant other might need additional help to beat her demons once and for all.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not take it personally if your significant other spends more time on the computer than he does with you. People with addictions do not usually realize the seriousness of their actions. It will take several weeks or even months for you to see a change in your significant other, if you see any change at all.

References

• HelpGuide.org; Internet Addiction; Joanna Saisan, Melinda Smith, Lawrence Robinson and Jeanne Segal; October 2010
• The Psychology of Cyberspace; Bringing Online and Offline Living Together; John Suler

Resources

• Netaddiction.com