Posted by: Uticopa in addiction on
Jun 22, 2009
We have always understood addiction to include such horrors as drug addiction, alcoholism, gambling, nicotine etc. However, in today's technological age, there's a new kid on the block: violent computer game addiction.
What exactly is computer addiction?
Computer addiction, or more broadly computer overuse, is excessive or compulsive use of computers that interferes with daily life. People can be addicted to computers and suffer withdrawal symptoms.
History
There are examples of computer overuse dating back to the earliest computer games. With the widespread use of computers in the 21st century, it may be difficult to distinguish users who are ‘highly engaged' in their computer use from those who might be considered "addicted".
Posted by: Uticopa in mental health, addiction on
Sep 22, 2008
The Get Well Scheme was an experimental scheme run out of two centres in Northern Ireland that enabled GP's to refer patients to complimentary therapists with the NHS picking up the tab. The aim was to show that not only can those who have come to rely on long term prescription drug use to manage their conditions reduce their dependency through these therapies, but that the scheme could even save the NHS money.
The use of prescription drugs to manage conditions can be costly and result in countless further medical risks such as addiction, reliance and side effects (however small the risk factor is). The Get Well Scheme looked into the use of such therapies as acupuncture, homoeopathy, chiropractic, aromatherapy and reflexology. The recent BBC One documentary (shown in Northern Ireland) charted the progress of the scheme and showed some very positive stories of success.
The scheme was attempting to prove that the NHS should be offering its patients access to these alternatives to prescription drugs for their better health and for the benefit of the NHS budget.
