- One of the first things you, or your child or student, can do in seeking help for immediate treatment and counseling is to contact the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery Program.
This is a retreat center program in which professional clinicians specialize in treating all sorts of problematic internet and technology use, whether it be depressive tendencies or internet and gaming addiction. These retreats encourage individuals to reconnect with the outdoors and to seek counseling, allowing them to be free of dependance of constant online interactions. If a child or a student you know is suffering from any of the mentioned issues related to depression and internet use, this would be a great professional resource to start.
- If a student or child you know is dealing with depression, addiction and/or is a victim of online bullying, I would encourage you to seek out psychological treatment as soon as possible. Then the specific nature of the disorder or problem can be identified and properly treated.
- Keep an open line of communication about the issues in face to face life. Many times victims of bullying, depression and addiction feel there is now where to turn and may be ashamed of what is happening to them. Allow them to feel comfortable in discussing their issues in order to fully monitor and understand what is going on.
- If cyberbullying is happening between students at a school, inform school authorities. They will help decide in how to talk with the students involved, and will aid you in contacting the parents or guardians of the kids as well. Make sure any cries for help are being closely followed up on and are not being ignored by school authorities.
- Keep computers and electronic devices in family or communal rooms where there can always be an adult present. This will ensure that time limits are being respected and you can potentially monitor any risky or addictive internet activity.
- New softwares are being developed that will signal when the internet usage patterns of individuals are signaling depressive tendencies. This programs can be installed at home or at schools and can help those in charge be more aware of the ways teens and youth are using the internet to ensure safety at all times. *
- Stay informed on the instances of depression, addiction and bullying associated with increased internet use. There are many programs and technologies being developed out of much research on the subject. The more you stay educated, the more you can help kids today!
- Simply- encourage your children or students to be active outside or indoors! Make certain times for proper internet and technology use, at most up to an hour a day. Allow children and teens to enjoy games and books which may be ignored by increased internet use.
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