How can I finally stop my computer addiction?

Question

I'm a hardcore computer addict. It's so sad.. I've been addicted to the computer for pretty much as long as I can remember. Ever since I receieved my own personal computer it got bad. I get addicted to games too easily. I've been addicted to countless amounts of games and gone through "phases". I've been addicted to games such as Maple-Story, Habbo Hotel, Counter-Strike, although I've pretty much gotten over those. I'm currently addicted to a game called Flash Flash Revolution and it's disappointing because it's pretty much taken half my summer away. I have a very limited amount of friends.. and seeing as I'm in college now, it's very hard to just go out and make new friends. I want to have a social life like I did way back in early highschool..

I'm making this question because although I've had addictions in the past.. I've never had one quite like this. I say this because for this addiction (Flash Flash Revolution) I've promised myself, even swore on my life that I'd stay away and not play anymore, but literally find myself playing less than 12 hours later up until three in the morning.. It's disturbing..

My parents have given me talks about my addiction in the past but since I was an addict I couldn't really take what they had to say seriously, but rather dismissed it as them just being dramatic and annoying. I live in a nothing-to-do town. Although I don't live in hickville, I certainly don't live in California or somewhere there are always things to do and people to meet.. I just want a life it's so disturbing when I now think about it that I have a handful of friends, no girlfriend, no hobbies, getting out of shape, no job. I really need to kick my life into gear.. because my computer addiction has triggered social anxiety... not major anxiety but I've definitely become more awkward (social-wise)

Please, if any of you have ACTUAL advice on how I can just once and for all stop my continuing cycle of moping around all day on stupid computer games inside my room, give it to me. I need to actually get my butt out and realize there's a life out there waiting for me because quite frankly, at this point I feel that I'm like a heroin addict, except I'm addicted to first person shooters, MMORPG's, virtual chat sites, and finger-based rhythm games..

Thanks in advanced.

Answer 1

WOW!... that's really long to read.. yeah.. so i haven't read the details. If you're really that desperate to stop your computer addiction, you must divert your attention or time to a more productive activity that will not make you think of any PC games or clicking the mouse. You may wanna try going hiking in the mountains, malling, basketball, baseball, any sport! or, just get in school. study. :D

Answer 2

If I were in you rposition, I'd ditch the computer altogether. An alcoholic has to stay away from alcohol, you might need to stay away from that computer.



For your college work, start using the computer lab PCs, or one that your parents own. Otherwise, place it in the living room instead of your room, and trash the games. Ask your parents to place internet security software so that you can't access any gaming sites.



Hope this helps!

Answer 3

As it's summer you could go for walks, swim, go to the gym, play sport and try to make new friends. Friends will ask you to join them in activities. If you are socially shy then you could join a club where you can slowly get to know people without feeling stressed. Being friendly, helpful and joining in conversation can attract people to you. It just takes a serious decision to leave the computer and explore the world and be open to new people and opportunities.

Answer 4

I have the same exact problem. What I am doing to help is finding something else that I like to do. Like a hobby. I do things I like to do that will distract me. I normally do not do it in the same room as my computer though. Trying going outside, biking, running, walking. Whatever keeps your mind off of the computer.



Hope this helps! :D