As a society, there is a great deal of reliance on the internet. People are spending more and more time online, which suggests a tendency towards addiction. That being said, due to the fact that everything can now be done online, including work, shopping and studying, individuals perhaps have to spend time online. So what are some of the reasons that people use the internet?
Getting Information
The internet is the largest library ever created and and is growing every day. Although one can’t always believe what one reads on the internet, it is the primary source of information delivered via multiple media sources. The internet has changed the way that individuals look for and obtain information.
Entertainment
It is so easy these days to watch movies online, play games with people around the world. In fact, multi player games and virtual worlds are popular with millions. Websites like YouTube, Pandora and Spotify have provided access to videos and music to keep individual entertained any time they want.
Communication
Keeping in touch with family and friends around the world has never been so easy or accessible. With the variety of software out there, individuals can stream voice and video across the world with little to no delay. Email has been the preferred means of communication for a couple of decades now. Without the internet, it would be expensive and slower to maintain personal and professional relationships.
Work
Working from home or telecommunication is an alternative to the traditional work day, and a concept that more and more people are taking advantage of. The internet is also a source of income for many people. Just consider blogging, providing SEO services, etc.
Study
A growing number of school and university curricula require use of the internet for school work. Beyond that, individuals can take classes online. MOOC or Massive Open Online Courses are a popular and inexpensive way for individuals to learn something from some of the best institutions in the world.
Maintaining Relationships
With the advent of Facebook, the way individuals make and maintain their relationships has changed. It is so easy to tell everyone what we are doing, or learn what they are doing, comment, and be involved. Social networking can be addictive however, leading people to waste their time online.
Marketing
People use the Internet to research, find and buy services and products. Or to target and sell to the ultimate consumer. In effect, the internet has become the best way to buy and sell merchandise, as online “stores” are open 24/7.
Sex
It would come as no surprise to anyone to find out that a majority of internet searches are based around porn. Individuals, mostly men, use the internet to view pornography and indulge their sexual instincts.
Asking for Help
Because the internet is private when we want it to be, it has become a safe place for individuals to ask for help, without going through the traditional channels of approaching family or medical professionals face to face. People can ask for help in cyberspace in the form of emotional support, medical advice, legal advice or even simple listening. There are number of formal online support groups that can be accessed.
At The Villa Treatment Center, we have created a home away from home geared toward nurturing your successful recovery process from start to finish. Contact us, and we can answer all of your questions.