Do you have to cut the modem or dismantle the computer just to kick the online habit? Complete abstinence may not always be possible when Internet use is required for work.

Limit use to business-related surfing
One goal of successful recovery is to moderate legitimate business use of the Internet while abstaining from those aspects of cyberspace that are most troubling.

Stick to a schedule
Begin by incorporating a tangible schedule of Internet usage that will give you a sense of being in control, rather than allowing the Internet to take control. Learn to set reasonable time limits pertaining to your computer use and keep your Internet usage on a routine schedule to help maintain discipline and avoid future relapse.

Seek therapy
Just cutting back on Internet usage is only part of the solution. Internet addiction often stems from underlying psychological or situational factors that increase risk for the disorder to develop. For example, addicts often use the Internet to escape from stress, depression, anxiety, job burnout, work pressures, or marital discord.

Successful recovery also means finding healthier ways of coping with these issues, which may include individual therapy, couples counseling, or support group participation. However, therapists and clinics that specialize in Internet addiction recovery are often difficult to locate given the relative newness of the disorder. Further, by seeking help, the addict may fear that family members and colleagues will discover the secret online habit, which will only cause further problems in an already troubled marriage or fragile work situation.

To address these concerns, I established the first Virtual Clinic for Internet addicts and their families in 1997 at www.netaddiction.com/clinic.htm. Using email, chat, and telephone therapy, I provide clients with immediate access to a healthcare specialist knowledgeable in this evolving field. Not only does this provide an initial step towards Internet addiction recovery, but it also protects clients' privacy and lets them pursue counseling no matter where they live. For more information on Internet addiction recovery, please email me at ksy@netaddiction.com.