About solitaire

Solitaire is a single-player card game that involves arranging cards on a playing surface according to specific rules. The objective is to move all cards from their original layout to a predetermined foundation or tableau.

Addiction to solitaire, 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 solitaire addiction?

No, solitaire addiction is not listed as a specific disorder in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition). However, excessive use of video games or the internet may be classified as a behavioral addiction under the category of “Internet Gaming Disorder” or “Internet Use Disorder”. It is important to seek professional help if you feel that your use of solitaire or any other activity is interfering with your daily life and causing distress.

So what means “solitaire addiction”?

Solitaire addiction refers to a compulsive behavior of playing solitaire card games excessively to the point where it interferes with daily life activities. It is a form of behavioral addiction that can lead to negative consequences such as neglecting responsibilities, social isolation, and financial problems. Solitaire addiction is often associated with feelings of euphoria, stress relief, and a sense of accomplishment, which can reinforce the behavior and make it difficult to quit. Treatment options for solitaire addiction may include therapy, support groups, and behavioral interventions.

What is considered solitaire addiction?

There is no official diagnosis for solitaire addiction, as it is not recognized as a clinical disorder. However, if someone is playing solitaire excessively and it is interfering with their daily activities and responsibilities, they may be experiencing symptoms of addiction or compulsive behavior. Some criteria that may indicate a solitaire addiction include:

• 1. Spending an excessive amount of time playing solitaire, to the point where it interferes with work, school, or other responsibilities.
• 2. Feeling a strong urge or compulsion to play solitaire, even when it is not enjoyable or satisfying.
• 3. Experiencing negative consequences as a result of playing solitaire, such as neglecting relationships, physical health, or mental well-being.
• 4. Continuing to play solitaire despite these negative consequences.
• 5. Feeling anxious or irritable when unable to play solitaire.
• 6. Needing to play solitaire for longer periods of time or at higher levels of difficulty to feel satisfied.
• 7. Prioritizing solitaire over other activities that were once enjoyable or important.
• 8. Lying or hiding the extent of solitaire playing from others.
• 9. Feeling guilty or ashamed about playing solitaire.
• 10. Attempting to quit or cut back on solitaire playing, but being unable to do so.

How much solitaire is too much?

If playing solitaire starts to interfere with daily activities, responsibilities, or relationships, then it may be a sign that too much time is being spent on it. It is important to maintain a balance between leisure activities and other important aspects of life.

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 solitaire addiction widespread?

It is known that Solitaire is a popular and widely played game, and some people may develop a habit of playing it excessively. Excessive play may lead to addiction in some cases, but it is not a widespread problem. It is important for individuals to monitor their gaming habits and seek help if they feel they are addicted.

Why is solitaire so addictive?

Solitaire, like many other games, can be addictive due to several reasons:

• 1. Easy to learn: Solitaire is easy to learn and can be played by anyone, regardless of age or skill level.
• 2. Challenging: Despite being easy to learn, solitaire can be challenging to master. The game requires a lot of strategy and critical thinking.
• 3. Rewarding: Solitaire provides a sense of accomplishment when a player successfully completes a game. This sense of reward can motivate the player to continue playing.
• 4. Relaxing: Solitaire can be a relaxing activity, with its repetitive movements and familiar gameplay.
• 5. Time-consuming: Solitaire can be a time-consuming activity, making it easy for a player to lose track of time and become absorbed in the game.

Overall, the combination of challenge, reward, and relaxation makes solitaire an addictive game for many players.

Possible causes of solitaire dependency

Solitaire addiction, also known as digital gaming addiction, is a type of behavioral addiction where individuals develop an uncontrollable urge to play electronic games. Some of the potential causes of solitaire addiction are:

• 1. Psychological factors: Solitaire addiction can occur due to underlying psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Playing games like solitaire can provide temporary relief from these issues, leading to excessive gaming.
• 2. Social factors: Social isolation or lack of social support can also lead to solitaire addiction. Playing games can provide a sense of social connectedness, leading to addictive behavior.
• 3. Genetic factors: Some studies suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the development of addiction. Individuals with a family history of addiction may be more vulnerable to developing solitaire addiction.
• 4. Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as easy access to electronic devices or exposure to gaming culture can also contribute to solitaire addiction.

It’s important to note that addiction is a complex issue, and there may be multiple factors that contribute to its development. If you or someone you know is struggling with solitaire addiction, seeking professional help and support is recommended.

Signs & Symptoms of solitaire addiction

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

• 1. You spend hours playing solitaire: If you find yourself spending hours playing solitaire and lose track of time, it could be a sign that you are addicted to the game.
• 2. You prioritize solitaire over other activities: If you start canceling plans with friends or family just to play solitaire, it may be a sign of addiction.
• 3. You play solitaire at inappropriate times: If you play solitaire during work or school hours, or during social events, it could be a sign that the game is taking over your life.
• 4. You become irritable when you can’t play solitaire: If you feel anxious or irritable when you are unable to play solitaire, it could be a sign of addiction.
• 5. You constantly think about solitaire: If you find yourself constantly thinking about solitaire, even when you are not playing, it could be a sign that you are addicted to the game.
• 6. You neglect responsibilities to play solitaire: If you start neglecting important responsibilities like work, household chores, or personal relationships just to play solitaire, it could be a sign of addiction.
• 7. You have tried to quit playing solitaire but failed: If you have tried to quit playing solitaire but find yourself coming back to it again and again, it could be a sign of addiction.

What are some benefits of solitaire

There are several pros and advantages of solitaire that make it a great game:

• 1. Easy to Learn: Solitaire is a simple game that can be learned quickly, making it accessible to players of all ages.
• 2. Portable: You can play solitaire anywhere, anytime, as all you need is a deck of cards. It’s a great way to pass the time when you’re travelling or waiting for an appointment.
• 3. Improves Concentration: Solitaire requires focus and concentration, which can improve mental agility and memory retention.
• 4. Relieves Stress: Playing solitaire can be a great way to relax and unwind after a long day.
• 5. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills: Solitaire requires you to think strategically and plan ahead, which can enhance your problem-solving skills.
• 6. Builds Patience: Solitaire requires a lot of patience, as some games can take a long time to complete. This can help build patience and persistence.

Overall, solitaire is a great game that offers numerous benefits, including improving concentration, enhancing problem-solving skills, and building patience.But at the opposite, what can be some solitaire addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

There are several potential effects of playing solitaire on your health, both positive and negative.

Positive effects:

• 1. Improved mental agility: Solitaire requires you to use strategy and problem-solving skills, which can help improve your cognitive function.
• 2. Stress relief: Playing solitaire can help reduce stress and anxiety levels by providing a calming and relaxing activity.
• 3. Improved hand-eye coordination: The game requires you to move cards around quickly and accurately, which can improve your hand-eye coordination.
• 4. Socialization: Playing solitaire with others can provide an opportunity for socialization and interaction.

Negative effects:

• 1. Sedentary behavior: Playing solitaire for extended periods of time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can increase the risk of obesity and other health problems.
• 2. Eye strain: Staring at a computer screen or mobile device for extended periods of time can cause eye strain and fatigue.
• 3. Addiction: Like any activity, playing solitaire can become addictive and lead to compulsive behavior.
• 4. Lack of sleep: Playing solitaire late into the night can interfere with your sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and other health problems.

solitaire and sleep disorder

No, playing solitaire alone is unlikely to cause sleep disorders or sleep problems. However, playing solitaire or any other game on a screen close to bedtime can interfere with sleep by stimulating the brain and making it harder to fall asleep. This is because screens emit blue light, which can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

Additionally, playing solitaire or any other game that is mentally stimulating can also keep the brain active and make it difficult to wind down and fall asleep. It is recommended to avoid screen time at least an hour before bedtime to improve sleep quality.

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

Some effects of solitaire on your brain

Solitaire is a popular card game that can be played on a computer or mobile device. While it can be a fun and entertaining way to pass the time, there are some potential negative effects on the brain that should be considered:

• 1. Lack of mental stimulation: Solitaire is a relatively simple game that does not require a lot of strategic thinking or decision-making. Playing solitaire for extended periods of time can lead to a lack of mental stimulation, which can negatively impact brain function.
• 2. Reduced problem-solving ability: Solitaire does not require players to solve complex problems, which can lead to a reduction in problem-solving ability over time. This can make it more difficult to solve problems in other areas of life.
• 3. Increased stress and anxiety: While solitaire can be relaxing for some people, it can also be stressful for others. The pressure to win and the frustration of losing can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can have negative effects on the brain.
• 4. Addiction: Like any game, solitaire can be addictive. Spending too much time playing solitaire can lead to a reduction in other important activities, such as socializing, exercising, and learning new skills.

Overall, while playing solitaire in moderation is unlikely to cause any significant harm, it is important to be aware of the potential negative effects on the brain and to balance solitaire with other activities that provide mental stimulation and promote overall well-being.

Some effects of solitaire on your mental health

• 1. Isolation: Solitaire is a solitary game played alone, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Prolonged periods of isolation can have negative effects on mental health.
• 2. Addiction: Like any other game, solitaire can become addictive, leading to compulsive behavior and a loss of control. This can cause anxiety, stress, and depression.
• 3. Lack of social interaction: Solitaire doesn’t involve any form of social interaction, which can lead to a lack of social skills and isolation from others. Social interaction is essential for maintaining good mental health.
• 4. Decreased cognitive function: While solitaire might seem like a great way to keep your mind active, studies have shown that it doesn’t provide the same cognitive benefits as social interaction or physical activity. Prolonged periods of playing solitaire can lead to a decline in cognitive function and memory retention.
• 5. Increased stress and anxiety: Playing solitaire can be a source of stress and anxiety, particularly if you’re trying to beat your previous high score or struggling to complete a game. This can lead to negative emotions and impact your mental health over time.

Does solitaire cause stress and anxiety?

Solitaire itself is a game that is meant to be relaxing and enjoyable. However, excessive or compulsive playing of solitaire could potentially lead to stress or anxiety. This is because excessive gaming can lead to addiction, which can negatively impact mental health and lead to feelings of guilt, isolation, and anxiety.

Additionally, if someone is using solitaire as a coping mechanism to deal with underlying stress or anxiety, they may be exacerbating their symptoms by avoiding dealing with the root cause. Therefore, it is important to practice moderation and seek help if solitaire or any other activity becomes a source of stress or anxiety.

Can solitaire addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Solitaire addiction may lead to sadness and depression in some cases. While playing solitaire is not inherently harmful, excessive or compulsive play can lead to negative consequences such as neglecting responsibilities, social isolation, and feelings of guilt or shame. These negative consequences can contribute to sadness and depression.

Additionally, some people may use solitaire as a form of escapism from underlying mental health issues, and without addressing those issues, they may continue to experience negative emotions. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with solitaire addiction or any other form of addiction that is affecting their mental health.

Dopamine and solitaire

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a role in reward and motivation. It is often associated with feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. Solitaire, a popular card game that can be played alone, can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain as players experience a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when successfully completing the game. This release of dopamine can contribute to the enjoyment and addictive nature of the game for some individuals. However, it is important to note that excessive dopamine release and addiction to activities such as solitaire can have negative effects on mental health and well-being.

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

There is limited research on the specific effects of playing solitaire on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance. However, playing solitaire may have both positive and negative effects on these areas.

On one hand, playing solitaire may help improve focus and attention span by providing a brief break from other tasks and allowing for mental relaxation. This can help reduce stress and increase productivity when returning to work.

On the other hand, playing solitaire excessively or as a form of procrastination can have negative effects on productivity and academic performance. It can also become a distraction and reduce the amount of time available for other important tasks.

Overall, the impact of playing solitaire on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance will depend on the individual’s usage and how it fits into their overall work and study habits. It is important to use solitaire in moderation and as a form of relaxation rather than a primary form of procrastination.

A word about ADHD and solitaire

There is limited research on how individuals with ADHD interact with solitaire specifically. However, it is possible that individuals with ADHD may have difficulty staying focused on the game and may become easily distracted. They may also struggle with the repetitive nature of the game and may quickly lose interest. On the other hand, some individuals with ADHD may find solitaire to be a calming and relaxing activity that can help them improve their focus and concentration. Overall, how individuals with ADHD interact with solitaire can vary depending on their individual symptoms and preferences.

affecting your relationships

solitaire and self-esteem

Solitaire can affect self-esteem in both positive and negative ways. On the positive side, successfully completing a game of solitaire can boost self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment and competence. It can also provide a sense of control and mastery over a situation, which can be empowering.

On the negative side, struggling to complete a game of solitaire can lead to feelings of frustration, inadequacy, and low self-esteem. It can also become a form of avoidance behavior, where the individual uses solitaire as a way to distract themselves from other tasks or responsibilities, which can lead to feelings of guilt and shame.

Overall, the impact of solitaire on self-esteem depends on how it is used and the mindset of the individual playing the game. If used in moderation and as a tool for relaxation or mental stimulation, it can have a positive impact on self-esteem. However, if used excessively as a form of avoidance or procrastination, it can have a negative impact on self-esteem.

solitaire addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, Solitaire addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone is addicted to playing Solitaire, they may spend long periods playing the game, which can result in them withdrawing from social activities and interactions with others. Over time, this can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, as they are not engaging with others and forming meaningful relationships.

Additionally, excessive time spent playing Solitaire can also lead to neglect of other important areas of life, such as work or family responsibilities, which can lead to further social isolation and loneliness.

Effects of solitaire on your relationship

Positive effects:

• 1. Solitaire can help you relax and unwind, reducing stress and tension in your relationship.
• 2. If you both enjoy playing solitaire, it can create a shared hobby and a way to bond over a common interest.
• 3. Solitaire can be played alone or together, providing a flexible and convenient activity for couples with busy schedules.
• 4. It can help improve focus and concentration, which can translate into better communication and problem-solving skills in your relationship.

Negative effects:

• 1. If one partner becomes too obsessed with playing solitaire, it can lead to neglect of the relationship and lack of quality time together.
• 2. Playing solitaire can be a solitary activity, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection between partners.
• 3. If one partner constantly interrupts the other’s game of solitaire, it can lead to frustration and conflict in the relationship.
• 4. If solitaire is used as a means of escape from relationship problems or responsibilities, it can lead to avoidance and further damage to the relationship.

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

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

Main steps and solutions to break the solitaire addiction

Here are some general steps that may be helpful in breaking a solitaire addiction:

• 1. Acknowledge the addiction and its negative impact on your life.
• 2. Set a goal to reduce or eliminate your solitaire playing time.
• 3. Identify the triggers that make you want to play solitaire and try to avoid them.
• 4. Find alternative activities to replace solitaire, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends and family.
• 5. Seek support from friends, family, or a professional counselor.
• 6. Consider using technology to limit your solitaire playing time, such as setting a timer or using an app that tracks your usage.
• 7. Be patient and persistent in breaking the addiction, and celebrate small victories along the way.

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 solitaire:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of solitaire

First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your solitaire 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