... in-patient rehabilitation program for computer addiction in the philippines ... (life coach, psychotherapist, psychologist, psychiatrist)

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apples jalandoni, field reporter of abs-cbn's "bandila," did an interview on the topic of "computer addiction." here's what i had to share: .
the computer has become a necessary tool of modern life. young people use it for their studies; adults use it for work; and anyone can use it for fun. like all good things however, computer use can be abused. anyone who uses the computer is at risk of getting addicted to it.
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computer addiction refers to the compulsive or excessive use of computers such that one’s life revolves around it and it interferes with normal routines of daily living. it covers wide spectrum of behaviours which include playing video and online games, viewing internet pornography, being hooked to chat rooms, repetitively checking email, uncontrolled online gambling, continuously downloading music files, engaging in illicit affairs through the net, constantly watching online videos, and surfing the net for long hours.
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computer addiction is characterized by (1) an obsession to use the computer, (2) a worsening of the obsession as time goes by, (3) persistence of the computer-related behaviour despite experiencing the negative consequences, and (4) loss of self-control.
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computer addiction has many negative effects: mood swings, withdrawal from family and friends, sleep deprivation, poor eating habits, poor hygiene, wrist injury, back and neck aches, poor grades, stealing, lying, poor attention span in school or at work, absenteeism or tardiness, and a breakdown of relationships. as the computer addiction progresses, it creates personality changes which deteriorate over time, ultimately ruining all aspects of the computer addict’s life.
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a common mistake in the treatment of computer addicts is to bring them to a doctor who just relies on medications or to make them undergo the same rehabilitation program for alcoholics and substance dependents. a good rehab program should address the unique issues and specific needs of computer addicts.
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Life Change Recovery Center is a psychological therapy center with a short-term in-house program for overcoming computer addiciton. at Life Change, the computer addict is empowered to quit his computer obsession for goo. the program emphasizes values formation, personality development, and spiritual growth. personalized care, in-depth counseling, and family therapy are all part of the program. most importantly, confidentiality and compassion are guaranteed.
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