About crossword

A crossword is a word puzzle consisting of a grid of squares, commonly in a rectangular or square shape, filled with letters and words that intersect with each other horizontally and vertically. The goal is to fill in the grid with the correct words to complete the puzzle.

Addiction to crossword, a “real” addiction?

Officially an addiction?

First, let’s have a look to the DSM-5,the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Does it includes crossword addiction?

No, crossword addiction is not listed as a specific disorder in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) or any other official diagnostic manual. However, excessive or compulsive crossword solving could be a symptom of an underlying mental health condition, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or addiction. If you feel that you have a problem with crossword addiction, it is recommended to seek professional help from a mental health provider.

So what means “crossword addiction”?

Crossword addiction is a compulsion to solve crossword puzzles, often to the point where it interferes with daily life and responsibilities. People with crossword addiction may spend hours each day working on crossword puzzles, even at the expense of work, relationships, and other important activities. They may experience anxiety or distress when unable to solve a puzzle or when faced with a particularly challenging one. While crossword addiction is not officially recognized as a diagnosable disorder, it can still have a negative impact on a person’s life.

What is considered crossword addiction?

• 1. Unable to stop solving crosswords: A person who is addicted to crosswords may find it difficult to stop solving them, even when they need to attend to other tasks or responsibilities.
• 2. Neglecting daily activities: Addicted individuals may prioritize solving crosswords over important daily activities such as work, socializing, or personal hygiene.
• 3. Spending excessive time solving crosswords: An individual who spends an excessive amount of time solving crosswords may be addicted to the activity.
• 4. Withdrawal symptoms: If the individual experiences withdrawal symptoms when they are unable to solve crosswords, such as restlessness, irritability, or anxiety, this may be a sign of addiction.
• 5. Neglecting relationships: An addict may neglect relationships with family and friends in favor of solving crosswords.
• 6. Financial problems: If solving crosswords becomes an expensive hobby, such as buying newspapers or magazines solely for the crossword puzzles, this may indicate addiction.
• 7. Obsessive behavior: An individual who is addicted to crosswords may exhibit obsessive behavior, such as spending all their time solving puzzles and neglecting other interests or hobbies.

How much crossword is too much?

Spending too much time on crossword puzzles varies from person to person. Some people may enjoy spending hours solving a crossword puzzle, while others may lose interest after a few minutes. It is important to maintain a balance between leisure activities and responsibilities. If solving crossword puzzles begins to interfere with daily tasks or personal relationships, it may be time to reevaluate the amount of time spent on them.

Some online entertainment addiction facts & statistics

Online entertainment addiction is a growing concern as more and more people spend their time on the internet for entertainment purposes. Here are some statistics related to online entertainment addiction:

1. According to a 2018 study by the Pew Research Center, 26% of adults in the United States say they are “almost constantly” online.

2. A 2019 survey by Common Sense Media found that 50% of teens feel addicted to their mobile devices.

3. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that 14% of college students in China were addicted to online entertainment.

4. A 2020 survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that 10% of American adults had experienced internet addiction at some point in their lives.

5. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that social media use was associated with increased risk of depression and anxiety among young adults.

Overall, these statistics suggest that online entertainment addiction is a growing concern, especially among young people, and may have negative effects on mental health.

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Is the crossword addiction widespread?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of people addicted to crossword puzzles, but it is a popular hobby for many. Crossword puzzles are a great way to exercise the mind and challenge oneself, and many people find them enjoyable and rewarding. However, excessive or compulsive crossword puzzle solving can be a sign of addiction, and it is important to maintain a healthy balance in all activities.

Why is crossword so addictive?

There are several reasons why crossword puzzles can be addictive:

• 1. Mental Challenge: Crossword puzzles provide a mental challenge that stimulates the brain and keeps it active. Solving a crossword requires the use of various cognitive skills, including vocabulary, memory, and problem-solving abilities.
• 2. Sense of Accomplishment: Completing a crossword puzzle provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, especially when it is difficult or challenging. It is a way of testing one’s knowledge and skills, and solving a puzzle provides a sense of achievement.
• 3. Relaxation: For some people, solving crossword puzzles is a way of relaxing and passing the time. It can be a way of unwinding after a long day or during a break from work.
• 4. Variety: Crossword puzzles come in different levels of difficulty, themes, and styles. This variety keeps the challenge fresh and interesting, making it more addictive.
• 5. Social Interaction: Crossword puzzles can be a social activity that brings people together. Collaborating with others to solve a puzzle can be fun and engaging, and it can be a way of bonding with friends or family.

Possible causes of crossword dependency

• 1. Challenging puzzles: Crosswords can be addictive because they provide a mental challenge. Solving a difficult puzzle can give a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
• 2. Brain stimulation: Crosswords can also stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function. This can lead to a sense of mental clarity and focus.
• 3. Relaxation: For some people, solving crosswords can be a relaxing activity. It can help reduce stress and anxiety by providing a distraction from daily worries.
• 4. Social interaction: Crossword puzzles are often shared among friends, family, or online communities. This can lead to social interaction and a sense of belonging, which can be addictive.
• 5. Dopamine release: Solving a crossword puzzle can trigger the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can create a sense of euphoria and reinforce the behavior of solving crosswords.

Signs & Symptoms of crossword addiction

Now let’s see if you have the crossword addiction problem.

• 1. You solve crosswords every day, sometimes multiple times a day.
• 2. You get a rush of excitement when you start a new crossword puzzle.
• 3. You can’t resist the urge to complete a crossword puzzle, even if it’s difficult or frustrating.
• 4. You always have a crossword puzzle book, magazine, or app on hand.
• 5. You often work on crosswords instead of doing other activities or tasks that you should be doing.
• 6. You can’t stop thinking about crosswords even when you’re not working on one.
• 7. You get a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction every time you finish a crossword puzzle.

What are some benefits of crossword

• 1. Increases vocabulary: Crosswords require a strong vocabulary. Solving them can help you learn new words and expand your vocabulary.
• 2. Improves memory: Crosswords require you to remember clues, answers, and patterns. This improves your memory and cognitive function.
• 3. Enhances problem-solving skills: Crosswords are puzzles that require you to use your problem-solving skills to find the correct answers.
• 4. Promotes mental agility: Solving crosswords requires you to think creatively, analyze information, and make connections between clues and answers. This promotes mental agility and flexibility.
• 5. Reduces stress: Crosswords are a great way to reduce stress and relax. They provide a mental break from the daily routine.
• 6. Entertaining: Crosswords are entertaining and challenging. They can be a fun way to pass the time and exercise your brain.
• 7. Portable: Crosswords can be brought with you anywhere, making them a great way to pass the time while traveling or waiting.
• 8. Suitable for all ages: Crosswords are suitable for all ages and skill levels. They can be adapted to suit different skill levels and interests.
• 9. Inexpensive: Crosswords are relatively inexpensive and can be found in newspapers, books, and online.
• 10. Social: Crosswords can be a social activity. They can be solved with friends, family, or in a group setting, making them a great way to connect with others.

But at the opposite, what can be some crossword addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

Crossword puzzles have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health by improving cognitive function and memory. They can also be a fun and relaxing way to reduce stress and anxiety.

Additionally, crossword puzzles can be a helpful tool for improving vocabulary and language skills. However, it is important to note that excessive crossword puzzle solving can lead to addiction and may interfere with other important activities and responsibilities. Like any activity, it is important to practice moderation and balance.

crossword and sleep disorder

No, crossword puzzles do not cause sleep disorders or sleep problems directly. However, if you are playing crossword puzzles right before bed, it could potentially interfere with your sleep if it keeps your brain active and engaged when you’re trying to wind down. It’s generally recommended to avoid stimulating activities like crossword puzzles, watching TV, or using electronic devices right before bed to promote healthy sleep habits.

crossword affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?

Some effects of crossword on your brain

• 1. Dependency: Some studies have suggested that people who regularly do crossword puzzles may become dependent on them for cognitive stimulation and may struggle with other types of mental activities.
• 2. Limited benefits: While crossword puzzles can improve vocabulary and cognitive skills related to language, they may not have much impact on other areas of brain function.
• 3. Repetitive: Doing the same type of puzzle over and over again can be mentally repetitive and may not provide much cognitive challenge or variety.
• 4. Frustration: Failing to solve a crossword puzzle can be frustrating and may lead to negative emotions that can affect overall mental well-being.
• 5. Time-consuming: Spending too much time doing crossword puzzles can detract from other important activities and responsibilities, leading to decreased productivity and overall quality of life.

It’s important to note that while there may be some potential negative effects, crossword puzzles can also be a fun and engaging way to challenge the brain and improve cognitive function. As with any activity, moderation is key, and it’s important to engage in a variety of mental activities to promote overall brain health.

Some effects of crossword on your mental health

Here are some potential negative effects of crossword puzzles on mental health:

• 1. Frustration: Crossword puzzles can be difficult, and if you can’t solve them, it can be frustrating and demotivating. This can negatively impact your mood and increase stress levels.
• 2. Obsessive behavior: Some people can become obsessed with completing a crossword puzzle, to the point where it interferes with other aspects of their life. This can lead to feelings of guilt or shame and may cause anxiety or depression.
• 3. Addiction: Like any activity, excessive crossword puzzle playing can lead to addiction. This can be especially harmful if it leads to neglect of other responsibilities or relationships.
• 4. Cognitive decline: While crossword puzzles can help improve cognitive function in the short term, they do not necessarily prevent cognitive decline in the long term. In fact, research has shown that relying too heavily on crossword puzzles may actually hinder cognitive growth.
• 5. Social isolation: If you spend too much time doing crossword puzzles, you may miss out on social interactions with friends and family, which can negatively impact your mental health.

Does crossword cause stress and anxiety?

Crossword puzzles can cause stress or anxiety if the individual is overly competitive or feels pressured to complete the puzzle quickly or accurately.

Additionally, if the crossword puzzle is too challenging for the individual’s skill level, it can cause frustration and anxiety. However, for many people, crossword puzzles can be a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can help reduce stress and improve mental agility. Ultimately, whether or not crossword puzzles cause stress or anxiety depends on the individual and their relationship with the activity.

Can crossword addiction lead to sadness and depression?

It is possible for crossword addiction to lead to sadness and depression, particularly if the individual becomes so consumed by their addiction that it starts to interfere with their daily life and relationships. Spending excessive amounts of time on crosswords can lead to social isolation, lack of exercise, poor nutrition, and neglect of other important activities. Moreover, when an individual becomes overly attached to a particular activity, they may experience feelings of guilt, shame or anxiety when they are not able to engage in it. If crossword addiction is causing severe distress, it may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional or support group.

Dopamine and crossword

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in feelings of pleasure and reward. Solving crossword puzzles can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain, which can lead to a sense of satisfaction and pleasure. This is why many people find crossword puzzles to be a fun and engaging activity.

Additionally, dopamine is also involved in learning and memory, which can help improve cognitive function and overall brain health.

crossword effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…

Crossword puzzles can have a positive impact on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance. Engaging in crossword puzzles can help improve cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving skills and memory retention, which can lead to better academic performance.

Additionally, crossword puzzles require a high level of concentration and focus, which can improve attention span and productivity. However, it is important to note that crossword puzzles should not be considered a substitute for other important activities, such as physical exercise and social interaction, which also have a positive impact on cognitive function and overall well-being.

A word about ADHD and crossword

Yes, people with ADHD may interact differently with crossword puzzles. ADHD affects attention and focus, which can make it difficult for individuals to complete tasks that require sustained attention and concentration. Crossword puzzles require a significant amount of focus and attention to detail, which may be challenging for someone with ADHD.

However, some individuals with ADHD may find crossword puzzles to be engaging and stimulating, as they can provide a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when completed successfully.

Additionally, some individuals with ADHD may enjoy the challenge of solving puzzles and may find it to be a helpful way to improve their cognitive skills.

Overall, the way in which individuals with ADHD interact with crossword puzzles can vary depending on their individual strengths and challenges related to attention and focus.

affecting your relationships

crossword and self-esteem

Crossword puzzles can have a positive impact on self-esteem in several ways:

• 1. Boosting confidence: Successfully completing a crossword puzzle can give a sense of accomplishment and boost self-confidence, which can lead to increased self-esteem.
• 2. Enhancing cognitive function: Crossword puzzles require concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills. Regularly engaging in such activities can enhance cognitive function, which can lead to increased self-esteem.
• 3. Providing a sense of control: In a world where many things are out of our control, completing a crossword puzzle can give a sense of control over something. This can lead to increased self-esteem and a feeling of empowerment.
• 4. Offering a sense of belonging: Crossword puzzles can be a social activity, and participating in group crossword activities can foster a sense of belonging, leading to increased self-esteem.

Overall, regularly engaging in crossword puzzles can have a positive impact on self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment, enhancing cognitive function, offering a sense of control, and fostering a sense of belonging.

crossword addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

It is possible for crossword addiction to lead to isolation and loneliness. If an individual spends a significant amount of time working on crosswords, they may become less social and spend less time interacting with others. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, especially if the individual is not able to balance their crossword addiction with other social activities and relationships.

Additionally, if the individual becomes overly competitive or obsessed with completing crosswords, this can also strain relationships and lead to further isolation and loneliness.

Effects of crossword on your relationship

Positive effects of crossword on your relationship:

• 1. It can be a fun and engaging activity to do together, fostering a sense of teamwork and collaboration.
• 2. Solving crosswords together can improve communication and problem-solving skills.
• 3. It can be a relaxing and low-pressure way to spend time together, allowing for conversation and bonding without the distractions of technology.

Negative effects of crossword on your relationship:

• 1. If one partner is significantly better at solving crosswords than the other, it can lead to feelings of frustration or inadequacy.
• 2. Spending too much time on crosswords can take away from other activities or responsibilities, causing tension or conflict.
• 3. It can become a source of competition rather than cooperation, leading to arguments or hurt feelings.

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Finally you think you are addicted to crossword and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for crossword?

Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your crossword addiction.

Main steps and solutions to break the crossword addiction

If you are struggling with crossword addiction, it is recommended that you seek the help of a medical professional or a mental health expert who can guide you on the appropriate steps to take to overcome this addiction. Some possible steps that may be recommended include:

• 1. Acknowledge the addiction: Recognize that you have a problem and that you need help to overcome it.
• 2. Set goals: Identify the reasons why you want to overcome this addiction and set specific, achievable goals for yourself.
• 3. Replace the addiction with a healthier habit: Find other activities that can provide you with the same level of mental stimulation or relaxation as crossword puzzles.
• 4. Seek support: Join a support group or seek the help of a therapist or counselor who can provide you with the guidance and encouragement you need to overcome your addiction.
• 5. Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental health by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that promote relaxation and stress relief.
• 6. Avoid triggers: Identify the situations or environments that trigger your addiction and try to avoid them.
• 7. Celebrate success: Celebrate your achievements and reward yourself for reaching your goals.

Actually, that’s what most documentation out there is about… However, quitting a digital addiction can be a bit trickier than that.

So our team, after testing many ways, designed a bulletproof way to overcome them. Here are some clear and practical steps that are very powerful to quit a digital addiction, including crossword:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of crossword

First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your crossword accounts, change the password and hide it somewhere you can’t access easily, keep your phone / computer far away… Out of sight out of mind.

Here is a video from our course the The Digital Purge. on how to add resistance to your temptations, so you become so lazy to engage with them that you give them up:

More of the Digital Purge