About sudoku

Sudoku is a logic-based number game that involves filling a 9×9 grid with numbers from 1 to 9. The objective is to fill each row, column, and 3×3 sub-grid with unique digits without repeating any number.

Addiction to sudoku, 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 sudoku addiction?

No, sudoku addiction is not listed as a diagnosis in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition). However, it is possible for individuals to develop problematic or compulsive behavior related to playing sudoku or other activities, which may be indicative of underlying issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or addiction.

So what means “sudoku addiction”?

Sudoku addiction is a term used to describe a compulsive or obsessive behavior in which a person becomes excessively preoccupied with solving Sudoku puzzles. This addiction may manifest as a strong desire to solve Sudoku puzzles, even to the point of neglecting other important activities or responsibilities. Some people may spend hours every day solving Sudoku puzzles, and may feel anxious or agitated if they are unable to do so. Sudoku addiction is not recognized as an official disorder, but it can have negative effects on a person’s mental health and well-being if it interferes with their daily life.

What is considered sudoku addiction?

Here are some signs that may indicate an excessive interest in Sudoku:

• 1. Spending excessive amounts of time playing Sudoku, to the point where it interferes with daily responsibilities and relationships.
• 2. Becoming irritable or anxious when unable to play Sudoku.
• 3. Losing track of time when playing Sudoku and neglecting important tasks.
• 4. Preferring to play Sudoku over engaging in other leisure activities or socializing.
• 5. Feeling a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction from completing difficult Sudoku puzzles.
• 6. Continuously seeking out more challenging Sudoku puzzles to solve.
• 7. Feeling a compulsive need to play Sudoku, even when it is not enjoyable or causing stress.
• 8. Neglecting personal hygiene and self-care due to excessive Sudoku playing.

How much sudoku is too much?

Spending too much time on Sudoku can vary from person to person and depend on individual circumstances. In general, if playing Sudoku becomes an obsessive and time-consuming activity that interferes with other essential aspects of life, such as work, relationships, or self-care, it may be a sign of problematic behavior. It is essential to maintain a balance between leisure activities and other essential aspects of life.

Some puzzle games addiction facts & statistics

Here are some general statistics on puzzle games addiction:

1. According to a survey conducted by Big Fish Games, nearly 30% of puzzle game players play for more than three hours a day.

2. A study conducted by Flurry Analytics revealed that puzzle games are the second most popular mobile game genre, with a 15% market share.

3. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that puzzle game addiction can lead to negative consequences such as decreased academic performance, social isolation, and increased anxiety.

4. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized gaming addiction as a mental health disorder in 2018, and puzzle games were listed as one of the types of games that can lead to addiction.

5. According to a survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association, 65% of American adults play video games, and 42% of them play puzzle games.

This Course Breaks Your Digital Habits

START THE COURSE

Is the sudoku addiction widespread?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of people addicted to Sudoku, but it is a popular game that is enjoyed by many people around the world. It is estimated that millions of people play Sudoku daily, and there are even competitions and championships held for the game. However, it is important to note that addiction to Sudoku or any other activity can be harmful and can interfere with daily life.

Why is sudoku so addictive?

Sudoku is addictive for several reasons:

• 1. Challenge: Sudoku puzzles provide a mental challenge that requires logic, deduction, and problem-solving skills. This challenge keeps the brain engaged and motivated to solve the puzzle.
• 2. Sense of accomplishment: Completing a Sudoku puzzle gives a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that can be addictive. The feeling of having solved a difficult puzzle is a reward in itself.
• 3. Relaxation: Solving Sudoku puzzles can be a relaxing and meditative activity. It requires focus and concentration, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• 4. Variety: Sudoku puzzles come in different levels of difficulty, so there is always a new challenge to tackle. This variety keeps the game interesting and addictive.
• 5. Availability: Sudoku puzzles are widely available, from newspapers to smartphone apps. This accessibility makes it easy for people to play and become addicted to the game.

Possible causes of sudoku dependency

Sudoku addiction, like any other type of addiction, is a complex phenomenon that can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• 1. Dopamine release: Solving Sudoku puzzles releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, which can create a sense of euphoria or satisfaction.
• 2. Challenge and achievement: Sudoku puzzles can provide a sense of challenge and achievement, which can be rewarding and addictive.
• 3. Escapism: Solving Sudoku puzzles can provide a temporary escape from daily stressors and problems, leading to a desire for more of this temporary relief.
• 4. Social influence: Sudoku puzzles have become popular and socially accepted as a pastime, leading to peer pressure to participate and excel in solving them.
• 5. Obsessive-compulsive tendencies: Some individuals with obsessive-compulsive tendencies may be drawn to the order and structure of Sudoku puzzles, leading to addictive behavior.

It is important to note that most people who enjoy solving Sudoku puzzles do not develop an addiction. However, if an individual experiences negative consequences such as neglecting responsibilities, losing sleep, or compulsively solving puzzles to the point of detriment to their daily life, they may have developed an addiction and should seek professional help.

Signs & Symptoms of sudoku addiction

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

• 1. You find yourself solving sudoku puzzles during every spare moment of your day, such as while waiting in line, riding the bus, or even during work meetings.
• 2. You have become extremely skilled at solving sudoku puzzles, and can complete even the most difficult ones with ease.
• 3. You have a collection of sudoku books, apps, and websites that you use to feed your addiction.
• 4. You get a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment when you complete a sudoku puzzle, and feel disappointed when you can’t solve one.
• 5. You have started dreaming about solving sudoku puzzles, and can’t wait to wake up and solve more.
• 6. You find yourself ignoring other activities or responsibilities in order to solve more sudoku puzzles.
• 7. You have introduced friends and family to the world of sudoku, and are constantly challenging them to solve puzzles with you.

What are some benefits of sudoku

Sudoku is a popular puzzle game that has several pros and advantages, making it a great pastime for many people:

• 1. Improves cognitive skills: Playing Sudoku regularly can improve cognitive skills such as memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
• 2. Reduces stress: Sudoku is a great way to relax and reduce stress. It requires concentration and focus, which can help you forget about your worries and problems.
• 3. Enhances logical thinking: Sudoku requires logical thinking, which enhances your ability to solve complex problems.
• 4. Provides a sense of accomplishment: Completing a Sudoku puzzle gives you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
• 5. Portable and easy to play: Sudoku puzzles are portable and can be played anywhere, anytime. You can play it on paper or on your phone or tablet.
• 6. Boosts confidence: As you solve more and more Sudoku puzzles, your confidence in your ability to solve problems increases.
• 7. Suitable for all ages: Sudoku puzzles are suitable for people of all ages and can be played by children and adults alike.

Overall, Sudoku is a great game that offers several benefits, making it a popular choice among puzzle lovers.But at the opposite, what can be some sudoku addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

Sudoku can have positive effects on your health in the following ways:

• 1. Improves cognitive function: Sudoku requires logical thinking, problem-solving, and memory retention, which can improve cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline in older adults.
• 2. Reduces stress: Focusing on solving Sudoku puzzles can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can have a positive impact on overall health.
• 3. Enhances concentration: Sudoku requires a high level of concentration, which can help improve attention span and focus.
• 4. Boosts mood: Completing Sudoku puzzles can give a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which can boost mood and improve mental well-being.
• 5. Promotes brain plasticity: Engaging in Sudoku regularly can promote brain plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and change over time.

Overall, incorporating Sudoku into your routine can have several positive effects on your health and well-being.

sudoku and sleep disorder

There is no evidence to suggest that playing Sudoku can directly cause sleep disorders or sleep problems. However, engaging in mentally stimulating activities, such as playing Sudoku or other puzzle games, close to bedtime may make it harder for some people to fall asleep. This is because such activities can increase alertness and mental activity, making it harder for the brain to relax and wind down for sleep. If you are experiencing sleep problems, it is recommended to avoid mentally stimulating activities before bedtime and establish a relaxing bedtime routine to promote better sleep.

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

Some effects of sudoku on your brain

There are no significant negative effects of playing Sudoku on the brain. In fact, Sudoku has been shown to have several positive effects on cognitive function, including:

• 1. Improving memory: Sudoku requires players to remember numbers and their positions on the grid, which can help improve memory.
• 2. Enhancing problem-solving skills: Sudoku challenges players to think logically and systematically, which can improve problem-solving skills.
• 3. Boosting concentration: The game requires players to focus and concentrate on the task at hand, which can improve overall concentration levels.
• 4. Reducing stress: Sudoku can be a relaxing activity that helps reduce stress and anxiety.

However, like any other activity, too much of anything can be harmful. Playing Sudoku excessively can lead to addiction and may cause neglect of other important areas of life such as work, relationships, and physical health. It is important to maintain a healthy balance and moderation in all activities.

Some effects of sudoku on your mental health

Playing Sudoku can be a fun and stimulating mental exercise for many people. However, for some individuals, it could lead to negative effects on their mental health, such as:

• 1. Obsessive behavior: People with obsessive tendencies may become overly fixated on solving Sudoku puzzles, leading to an unhealthy preoccupation with the game.
• 2. Frustration and stress: Completing a difficult Sudoku puzzle can be challenging and may lead to feelings of frustration and stress, which could negatively impact mental health.
• 3. Isolation: Playing Sudoku for extended periods may cause individuals to withdraw from social interactions, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
• 4. Addiction: For some people, playing Sudoku may become an addictive behavior, causing them to spend excessive amounts of time solving puzzles and neglecting other important aspects of their lives.
• 5. Lack of variety: Focusing solely on Sudoku as a mental exercise may limit a person’s exposure to other forms of mental stimulation, potentially leading to a lack of cognitive flexibility and adaptability.

It is important to note that these negative effects may not be experienced by everyone who plays Sudoku, and the game can also have positive impacts on mental health, such as improving cognitive function and reducing stress. As with any activity, moderation is key, and individuals should be aware of their own personal limits and tendencies.

Does sudoku cause stress and anxiety?

For some people, Sudoku can cause stress or anxiety, especially if they feel pressure to complete the puzzle quickly or if they become frustrated with a particularly difficult puzzle. However, for most people, Sudoku is a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can even help reduce stress and anxiety. The focus and concentration required to solve a Sudoku puzzle can be a form of meditation, which can help calm the mind and reduce stress. It all depends on the individual and their relationship with Sudoku.

Can sudoku addiction lead to sadness and depression?

While sudoku addiction itself may not directly lead to sadness and depression, excessive engagement in any activity that takes up too much time and energy can lead to neglect of other important areas of life such as social relationships, work, and physical health. This neglect can cause feelings of isolation, lack of purpose, and sadness, which can eventually lead to depression if left unchecked. It is important to maintain a healthy balance and prioritize other areas of life to prevent excessive engagement in any single activity.

Dopamine and sudoku

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. Engaging in activities that release dopamine, such as completing a challenging puzzle like Sudoku, can create feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment. This can lead to increased motivation to continue engaging in the activity. Sudoku can be a particularly effective way to release dopamine because it requires focused attention, problem-solving, and critical thinking, all of which can stimulate the brain’s reward centers.

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

Sudoku can have a positive impact on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance. Here’s how:

• 1. Focus: Sudoku requires concentration and attention to detail, which can help improve focus. By focusing on the puzzle, you can train your mind to stay on task and avoid distractions.
• 2. Productivity: Solving Sudoku puzzles can be a great way to take a break from work or study and refresh your mind. It can help you recharge your mental batteries and boost productivity when you return to your work.
• 3. Attention span: Sudoku requires sustained attention, which can help improve your attention span. By practicing this skill regularly, you can train your brain to stay focused for longer periods of time.
• 4. Academic performance: Sudoku can help improve cognitive skills such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking, which are all important for academic performance. Regularly engaging in Sudoku puzzles can help students improve these skills and perform better in school.

However, it’s important to note that while Sudoku can be beneficial, it should not be relied upon as the sole method for improving focus, productivity, attention span, or academic performance. It should be used in conjunction with other healthy habits such as exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep habits.

A word about ADHD and sudoku

It is possible that people with ADHD may interact differently with Sudoku than those without ADHD. Some studies suggest that individuals with ADHD may have difficulty with sustained attention and may struggle with tasks that require sustained mental effort. Sudoku puzzles require sustained attention and mental effort, which may make it challenging for some individuals with ADHD.

However, it is important to note that everyone with ADHD is different, and some may enjoy Sudoku and find it helpful for improving focus and concentration.

Additionally, there are various strategies and techniques that individuals with ADHD can use to improve their ability to complete Sudoku puzzles, such as breaking the puzzle down into smaller sections or using visual aids to help with focus and attention.

affecting your relationships

sudoku and self-esteem

Sudoku can have a positive effect on self-esteem in a number of ways. Here are a few:

• 1. Sense of accomplishment: Completing a Sudoku puzzle can give a sense of accomplishment, which can boost self-esteem. It provides a feeling of satisfaction that comes from solving a challenging problem.
• 2. Mental stimulation: Sudoku puzzles require concentration, logic, and problem-solving skills. When individuals successfully complete a Sudoku puzzle, it can provide a sense of intellectual stimulation and achievement.
• 3. Increased confidence: By solving Sudoku puzzles, individuals can develop confidence in their ability to solve complex problems. This can translate to other areas of their life, where they may feel more confident in their problem-solving skills.
• 4. Stress reduction: Sudoku puzzles can provide a sense of relaxation and stress reduction. When individuals are able to focus on solving a puzzle, they can take their mind off of other stressors in their life. This can lead to a sense of calm and inner peace, which can improve self-esteem.

sudoku addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, excessive sudoku playing or addiction to any activity can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone becomes addicted to sudoku, they may spend more and more time playing the game, to the point where they may neglect their social life, relationships, and other responsibilities. This can cause them to withdraw from social interactions and become isolated, leading to loneliness and even depression. It is important to maintain a healthy balance between hobbies and social activities to prevent addiction and negative effects on mental health.

Effects of sudoku on your relationship

Positive effects:

• 1. Improved communication: When playing Sudoku with your partner, you will need to communicate effectively to solve the puzzle together. This can improve your overall communication skills.
• 2. Bonding experience: Sudoku can be a fun and relaxing way to spend time with your partner. It can help you bond over a shared interest and improve your relationship.
• 3. Increased problem-solving skills: Sudoku requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills, which can help you and your partner develop these skills together.

Negative effects:

• 1. Frustration and tension: If you and your partner have different approaches to solving Sudoku puzzles, it can lead to frustration and tension between you.
• 2. Competition: If you and your partner are competitive, Sudoku can become a source of competition between you, which can lead to conflict.
• 3. Time-consuming: If you both become obsessed with Sudoku, it can take up a lot of your time and attention, which can strain your relationship.

This Course Breaks Your Digital Habits

START THE COURSE

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

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

Main steps and solutions to break the sudoku addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to Sudoku or any other activity, it is important to seek help from a qualified medical professional or addiction specialist. They can provide personalized recommendations and support to overcome the addiction. Some general steps for overcoming addiction may include:

• 1. Acknowledge the addiction and the negative impact it has on your life.
• 2. Seek professional help from a therapist or addiction specialist.
• 3. Develop a plan for managing triggers and cravings.
• 4. Find healthy activities and hobbies to replace the addiction.
• 5. Build a support system of friends, family, and peers who can offer encouragement and accountability.
• 6. Practice self-care and prioritize mental and physical wellness.
• 7. Celebrate small victories and progress towards recovery.

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 sudoku:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of sudoku

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