Computer + Phone Game Addiction Rehab
Phone, computer or gaming rehab: how our therapy can help your recovery from addiction
Getting help for problems with compulsive gaming, smartphone or computer use seem like a big step. But it doesn’t have to be a frightening prospect.
Our highly-qualified team have years of experience of providing effective therapeutic support to people with behavioural addictions and can help them through a computer game addiction rehabilitation process.
We’ve compiled this guide to help you understand the risks of your addiction to your tech, and to show you how Parkland Place can help.
What is gaming, phone or computer addiction?
For some smartphones, games or other computer use can develop into a compulsive behaviour, with a pattern of usage which interferes with daily routine, relationships, activities and well-being. Computer addiction may be related to social media, gambling, messaging, gaming, shopping, web surfing or even obsessive programming.
While no biological dependence develops from excessive smartphone, computer or console use, a number of emotional or psychological problems can be present. Spotting signs of addictive behaviour early will help loved ones to recognise signs and get help if necessary.
Am I addicted to my phone? Am I addicted to my computer? Am I addicted to games?
You could be developing an addiction to your phone, computer or games console if:
- You are isolated and spend more time online than with friends or members of your family. Do you make time for your phone, games console or computer rather spending that time with friends, family or socialising?
- You get defensive about your computer use. Do you react badly when others question your behaviour, or do you feel you need to justify the time you spend connected?
- You are easily distracted, and find it difficult to focus on your responsibilities. Are you distracted at work, study, or at home because of a preoccupation with being online or gaming?
- You are frequently late. Do you miss the start of family events, work, or other events because you spent too much time logged in? Are you logging in while you are supposed to be working, or doing something else?
Other signs include:
- A preoccupation with your phone, games console or computer – causing problems with relationships, productivity or self-care and hygiene.
- Choosing to spend time using your phone, games console or computer rather than do something you used to enjoy.
- Telling lies about what you are doing on your phone, games console or computer.
- Getting anxious or worried when you can’t use your phone, games console or computer – or know that your use will be limited.
- Mood swings or irritability when interrupted or questioned.
- Spending more time using your phone, games console or computer than you had intended to.
Risks of gaming, phone or computer addiction
Addiction to your smartphone, games console or computer can cause adverse reactions from friends and family members, especially when they begin to feel as though your computer use is more important to you than your interaction or responsibility to them.
Other risks of computer addiction include:
- weight gain through inactivity
- depression or anxiety
- social isolation
- problems controlling impulses
- loss of interest in other hobbies and pursuits
- backache and long-term vision problems
- financial difficulty where use is related to shopping or online gambling
Getting help for gaming, phone or computer addiction
Effective treatments can help people who are addicted to gaming, their phone or computer understand their addiction and regain control of their lives.
If you’re concerned about your gaming, phone or computer use, or that of a friend or family member, a good first step is to visit your GP. They will be able to discuss the services and treatments available.
Rehab for game, phone or computer addiction
Counselling and therapy can help you overcome mental health conditions, traumatic experiences or other circumstances which may be causing you to develop an unbalances relationship with your phone, games console or computer. This may include self-help groups and talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
You may be offered medication to help with related symptoms, such as a sleep problem, or misuse of other substances.
Therapeutic programmes like the approach favoured by Parkland Place have proven to be effective in the treatment of cocaine addiction.
Together, we will address both your addiction and any associated underlying social and psychological issues. We will work with you to address all aspects of your life, and to help you to develop a personal toolbox of techniques and resources.
Your treatment at Parkland Place
Parkland Place offers unrivalled therapy for people with experience of alcohol addiction, drug addiction, gambling addiction and other harmful behavioural conditions – in the comfort of a stunning, 16-bed mansion and gardens near the coast in beautiful North Wales. The house is situated amidst farmland owned by the National Trust, and offers a welcoming and comfortable haven for your journey of recovery.
Our therapeutic programme is tailored to the needs of each of our guests, and is delivered by friendly, expert staff. This truly bespoke approach allows us to address the social and psychological needs underpinning your addiction, and support you as you make key lifestyle changes.
Guests at Parkland Place are required to be, and to remain, abstinent during their stay with us. Many of our guests require structured medical detoxification before beginning their recovery journey. We offer no-fuss access to our own dedicated detox clinic at Salus Withnell Hall – including transfers – to ensure a seamless therapeutic experience.
