Welcome to our digital detoxing series! A series on how to stop addictions toFortnite,Facebook,Instagram,porn,Netflix, Youtube,Tinder… Findall the posts about digital addiction. Today, let’s talk about how to quit the wave addiction.
- What’s the wave addiction?
- Addiction to wave, a “real” addiction?
- What’s considered wave addiction
- How much wave is too much?
- Some technology addiction facts & statistics
- Symptoms & Causes of the wave addiction
- Why is wave so addictive?
- Possible causes of wave dependency
- Symptoms, Causes and Signs of wave addiction
- Problems, impacts & bad effects of wave
- Some benefits of wave
- health problems
- impact on brain & mental health
- impact on relationships
- How to stop & quit your wave addiction
- Main steps and solutions to break the wave addiction
- Best wave blocker apps & functionalities
- where to seek extra help?
- Conclusion
- To Go Further
- How to help someone with wave addiction
- Best books about technology addiction
- Research about technology addiction
What is the wave addiction?
About wave
A wave is a disturbance that travels through space or a medium, transferring energy without permanently displacing the particles of the medium. Examples include sound waves, light waves, and ocean waves.
Addiction to wave, 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 wave addiction?
No, wave addiction is not listed as a diagnosis in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition), which is the primary guidebook for diagnosing mental health conditions. The term “wave addiction” is not recognized as a formal diagnosis by the American Psychiatric Association or any other reputable mental health organization. However, excessive or compulsive use of technology, including internet and social media, can be a symptom of other mental health disorders such as addiction, anxiety, depression, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
So what means “wave addiction”?
Wave addiction can refer to two different things:
1. A psychological phenomenon where a person becomes addicted to the feeling of riding waves while surfing or bodyboarding. This addiction can be so strong that the person will prioritize surfing over other aspects of their life and will go to great lengths to surf as often as possible.
2. A term used to describe the addiction to the sound waves created by electronic dance music (EDM). This addiction is characterized by a strong desire to attend music festivals and events, listen to EDM constantly, and participate in the culture surrounding the music.
What is considered wave addiction?
Here are some general criteria that may indicate someone has an addiction to waves:
- 1. Preoccupation with waves: An individual who is addicted to waves may have an obsessive preoccupation with surfing, watching waves, or being in the ocean.
- 2. Difficulty controlling wave-related behaviors: They may have difficulty controlling their wave-related behaviors, such as spending more time surfing than they intended, or continuously checking wave reports.
- 3. Neglecting other responsibilities: They may neglect other responsibilities, such as work, school, or relationships, in favor of surfing or wave-related activities.
- 4. Withdrawal symptoms: They may experience withdrawal symptoms when unable to surf or be near waves, such as irritability, restlessness, or depression.
- 5. Continued use despite negative consequences: They may continue to surf or engage in wave-related activities despite negative consequences, such as physical injury or financial problems.
It’s important to note that addiction is a complex issue and should be diagnosed by a qualified healthcare professional. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, seek help from a medical professional or addiction specialist.
How much wave is too much?
In general, spending too much time on any task or platform can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. It is essential to balance the time spent on Wave with other work tasks and personal activities. It is recommended to take breaks, prioritize tasks, and manage time efficiently to avoid spending too much time on any one task or platform.
Some technology addiction facts & statistics
Technology addiction is a growing concern in today’s world. Here are some statistics related to technology addiction:
- 1. According to a 2019 survey by Common Sense Media, 50% of teens feel addicted to their mobile devices.
- 2. A study conducted by the Pew Research Center found that 28% of adults in the US feel they are constantly online.
- 3. A survey conducted by the American Psychological Association found that 43% of Americans are constantly checking their electronic devices for email, texts, or social media updates.
- 4. A survey conducted by the Royal Society of Public Health in the UK found that social media is the most addictive technology, with 63% of respondents reporting that they check their social media accounts at least once a day.
- 5. In a study conducted by the University of Maryland, students were asked to give up all technology for 24 hours. Many of the participants experienced withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and even physical symptoms such as headaches.
- 6. A study conducted by the University of Gothenburg in Sweden found that excessive use of mobile phones can lead to sleep disorders, depression, and anxiety.
- 7. According to the World Health Organization, internet addiction disorder (IAD) is a real condition that can have serious negative consequences on an individual’s mental and physical health.
Is the wave addiction widespread?
If you are referring to addiction to riding ocean waves, this is a popular recreational activity for many surfers around the world. However, like any activity that produces a rush of endorphins, it is possible for individuals to become addicted to the feeling and engage in risky behavior to continue experiencing it. If you are referring to addiction to a particular type of music called “wave,” this is a subgenre of electronic music that has a dedicated following but is not mainstream. It is possible for individuals to become addicted to any genre of music, but it is difficult to estimate the number of people specifically addicted to wave music.
Symptoms, Causes and Signs of wave addiction
Why is wave so addictive?
- 1. Sensory experience: Waves are not only visually mesmerizing, but they also create a soothing sound that can be relaxing to hear. The combination of these sensory experiences can trigger the release of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which can create feelings of pleasure and well-being.
- 2. Connection to nature: Waves are a natural phenomenon, and being in their presence can create a sense of connection to the natural world. This connection can induce feelings of calmness and peace, which can be addictive.
- 3. Escape from stress: Many people find the sound and sight of waves to be a form of escape from the stress and pressures of daily life. This escape can create a sense of relief and can be addictive as it provides a temporary respite from daily stresses.
- 4. Nostalgia: For some people, the sound and sight of waves may evoke memories of childhood vacations or other positive experiences. This nostalgia can create a positive association with waves, making them addictive to seek out and experience again.
Possible causes of wave dependency
There are several reasons why people may become addicted to waves:
- 1. Chemicals in the brain: Waves have been shown to release endorphins, which are chemicals in the brain that make us feel good. This can lead to a sense of pleasure and addiction.
- 2. Relaxation: Waves have a calming effect on the mind and body, which can be addictive for those who are seeking a sense of peace and relaxation.
- 3. Escape from reality: The sound of waves can transport us to a different place and provide an escape from the stresses of daily life.
- 4. Nostalgia: For some people, the sound of waves may evoke memories of past experiences, such as vacations or childhood trips to the beach.
- 5. Sensory stimulation: Waves provide a sensory experience that can be addictive for those who enjoy the sensation of the sound and movement of the water.
Signs & Symptoms of wave addiction
Now let’s see if you have the wave addiction problem.
- 1. You constantly check surf reports and weather forecasts to plan your next session.
- 2. You frequently cancel plans or responsibilities to surf.
- 3. You have a collection of surfboards and can’t resist buying new ones.
- 4. You constantly talk about surfing and can’t help but share your surfing stories with everyone.
- 5. You prioritize living near the beach or in a surf town.
- 6. You have a surf-related tattoo or wear surf clothing and accessories regularly.
- 7. You feel a sense of calm and fulfillment when you’re in the water, and can’t imagine your life without surfing.
Problems, impacts & bad effects of wave: should you quit?
What are some benefits of wave
There are several pros and advantages of using wave technology:
- 1. Speed: Wave technology is incredibly fast, allowing for data transfer rates of up to several gigabits per second.
- 2. Range: The range of wave technology is much greater than that of other wireless technologies, making it ideal for use in large areas such as stadiums or warehouses.
- 3. Security: Wave technology is highly secure, with encryption and authentication protocols that make it very difficult for hackers to intercept or tamper with data.
- 4. Reliability: Wave technology is highly reliable, with very low error rates and minimal interference from other sources.
- 5. Energy efficiency: Wave technology is very energy-efficient, requiring very little power to operate. This makes it ideal for use in battery-powered devices such as smartphones and IoT devices.
- 6. Flexibility: Wave technology can be used for a wide range of applications, from communication and networking to remote sensing and imaging.
Overall, wave technology is great because it offers high-speed, long-range, secure, reliable, energy-efficient, and flexible communication and sensing capabilities.But at the opposite, what can be some wave addiction problems addicts suffer from?
general health problems
Here are some potential effects of different types of waves on human health:
- 1. Electromagnetic waves: Prolonged exposure to high levels of electromagnetic waves, such as from cell phones and Wi-Fi routers, has been linked to a variety of health issues, including headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. However, the evidence is inconclusive and further research is needed to fully understand the impact of electromagnetic waves on human health.
- 2. Sound waves: Exposure to loud noise, such as from concerts or construction sites, can damage hearing and lead to tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Prolonged exposure to noise pollution can also lead to stress and other health issues.
- 3. Ocean waves: Spending time near the ocean and listening to the sound of waves has been shown to have a calming effect on the body and reduce stress levels.
Additionally, swimming in the ocean can have various health benefits, including improved circulation and reduced inflammation.
- 4. Light waves: Exposure to natural light can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve mood and sleep quality. However, exposure to artificial light at night, such as from electronic devices, can disrupt sleep and lead to a variety of health issues, including obesity and depression.
wave and sleep disorder
Yes, exposure to certain types of waves can create sleep disorders or sleep problems. For example, exposure to blue light waves emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Other types of waves such as noise waves or electromagnetic waves from electronic devices can also disrupt sleep patterns and cause sleep disturbances. It is important to limit exposure to these types of waves before bedtime to promote healthy sleep habits.
wave affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?
Some effects of wave on your brain
- 1. Headaches: Exposure to high-frequency waves can cause headaches due to increased pressure on the brain.
- 2. Dizziness: Exposure to strong waves can cause dizziness, vertigo, and nausea due to changes in the inner ear.
- 3. Memory loss: Prolonged exposure to high-frequency waves can cause memory loss and concentration problems.
- 4. Insomnia: Exposure to waves at night can disrupt sleep patterns, causing insomnia and other sleep-related disorders.
- 5. Anxiety: Waves can cause anxiety and stress, especially in people who are sensitive to electromagnetic radiation.
- 6. Electromagnetic hypersensitivity: Some people may develop electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), a condition where exposure to waves can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, fatigue, and skin rashes.
- 7. Brain tumors: There is some evidence that exposure to waves may increase the risk of brain tumors, although this link is still under investigation.
It is important to note that the levels of waves that most people are exposed to in their daily lives are typically very low and do not pose a significant risk to health. However, people who work in industries that involve high levels of exposure to waves, such as telecommunications and electronics, may be at a higher risk of negative health effects.
Some effects of wave on your mental health
- 1. Anxiety: Exposure to waves can cause anxiety in some individuals. People who are afraid of the ocean or are not comfortable with water may experience increased anxiety levels when they are near waves.
- 2. Stress: The sound of waves crashing can be relaxing for some people. However, for others, the constant sound of waves can cause stress, making it difficult to relax and unwind.
- 3. Motion sickness: Being on a boat or in the water can cause motion sickness, which can lead to nausea, dizziness, and headaches. This can affect your mental health by causing you to feel anxious, irritable, and tired.
- 4. Fear: Some people may have a fear of waves, known as thalassophobia. This fear can cause panic attacks, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
- 5. Depression: The constant exposure to waves and the ocean can also lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. This can result in depression, especially for people who live near the ocean and may feel cut off from the rest of society.
Does wave cause stress and anxiety?
Yes, waves can cause stress or anxiety in some individuals. The sound and movement of waves can be soothing and calming for many people, but for others, it can trigger feelings of anxiety or fear. This can be due to past experiences with water-related incidents, a fear of drowning, or a general fear of the unknown.
Additionally, the intensity and size of waves during a storm or rough sea conditions can cause stress and anxiety for even experienced swimmers and surfers. It’s important to understand your own triggers and take steps to manage any anxiety or stress that may arise.
Can wave addiction lead to sadness and depression?
In general, excessive exposure to anything, including surfing waves, can potentially lead to addiction and negative consequences such as sadness and depression. This is because addiction can alter brain chemistry and lead to a dependence on the activity or substance.
Additionally, if someone uses surfing as a way to escape or cope with underlying emotional issues, they may experience negative emotions when they are unable to surf or when they are not experiencing the same level of enjoyment from the activity. It is important to find a balance and seek professional help if addiction and negative emotions become a problem.
Dopamine and wave
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in the brain’s reward system, motivation, and pleasure. It is often associated with feelings of happiness and excitement.
When we experience something pleasurable or rewarding, such as receiving a compliment or achieving a goal, our brain releases dopamine. This release of dopamine causes a wave of excitement or pleasure to wash over us.
The wave of dopamine can also be triggered by certain drugs, such as cocaine or methamphetamines, which artificially stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain. However, this can lead to addiction and other negative consequences.
Overall, the relationship between dopamine and the wave it produces is a complex and important aspect of brain function and behavior.
wave effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…
Yes, waves can affect focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance in different ways. For example, research has shown that listening to music with a slow tempo and low volume can help increase focus and productivity, while loud and fast-paced music can be distracting. Similarly, exposure to noise or interruptions from external sources can negatively impact attention span and academic performance.
On the other hand, being in a calming environment with natural sounds such as flowing water or birds chirping can increase focus and reduce stress levels, leading to better academic performance.
Additionally, exposure to certain frequencies of waves, such as alpha waves, has been linked to improved cognitive performance and creativity.
Overall, the effects of waves on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance depend on various factors such as the type of wave, intensity, duration, and individual preferences.
A word about ADHD and wave
People with ADHD may interact with Wave (a music-making software) differently due to their unique cognitive and behavioral characteristics.
For example, individuals with ADHD may have difficulty with sustained attention and focus, which could make it challenging for them to work on longer music projects using Wave. They may also have a tendency to be impulsive, which could lead to them quickly making changes to their music without fully considering the consequences.
On the other hand, individuals with ADHD may also have a high level of creativity and energy, which could lend itself well to creating unique and innovative music using Wave. They may also thrive in an environment that allows for experimentation and freedom, which Wave could provide.
Overall, the way individuals with ADHD interact with Wave would depend on their individual strengths and challenges, as well as their personal preferences and goals when it comes to music-making.
affecting your relationships
wave and self-esteem
Waves can have different effects on self-esteem depending on the individual’s perception and experience. Here are some ways that waves can affect self-esteem:
- 1. Challenging experiences: Some individuals may feel a boost in self-esteem when they successfully ride a challenging wave or overcome the fear of wiping out. This can give them a sense of accomplishment and increase their confidence.
- 2. Negative experiences: If one experiences a traumatic wipeout or injury while surfing, it can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and confidence. This negative experience may cause fear and anxiety, leading to a lack of motivation to surf in the future.
- 3. Social comparison: Surfing is often a social activity, and individuals may compare themselves to others in the water. If someone perceives themselves as less skilled or experienced than others, this can lead to a decrease in self-esteem.
- 4. Mindfulness and connection to nature: On the other hand, some individuals may find that being in the water and surfing helps them feel more connected to nature and present in the moment. This can lead to an increase in self-esteem and a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.
Overall, the effects of waves on self-esteem can vary widely depending on the individual’s experience and perception.
wave addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?
Yes, wave addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone becomes addicted to surfing waves, they may prioritize their surfing over socializing with friends and family. This can lead to feeling disconnected from loved ones and missing out on important social interactions.
Additionally, if someone spends a lot of time surfing alone, they may feel isolated and lonely, as they are not engaging in meaningful social interactions. It is important for individuals who enjoy surfing waves to maintain a balance between their surfing and social life to avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Effects of wave on your relationship
Positive effects of waves on your relationship:
- 1. Relaxation and stress relief: The sound of waves can be very soothing and calming, which can help you and your partner relax and de-stress together.
- 2. Quality time: Watching waves together can be a great way to spend quality time with your partner, away from the distractions of everyday life.
- 3. Romantic atmosphere: The sound of waves, the ocean breeze, and the beautiful scenery can create a very romantic atmosphere, which can help strengthen your bond with your partner.
- 4. Adventure and exploration: Going on a beach vacation or exploring different beaches can be a fun adventure that you and your partner can share together.
Negative effects of waves on your relationship:
- 1. Safety concerns: Depending on the strength of the waves, it may not be safe to swim or even be near the water. This can cause stress and tension between you and your partner if you have different opinions on what is safe.
- 2. Discomfort: Being exposed to the elements, such as the sun, wind, and sand, can be uncomfortable and cause irritability or frustration between you and your partner.
- 3. Crowded beaches: If the beach is overcrowded, it can be difficult to find a peaceful spot to enjoy the waves together, which can lead to frustration and disappointment.
- 4. Financial strain: Going on a beach vacation or exploring different beaches can be expensive, which can cause stress and tension if you and your partner have different financial priorities.
How To Stop & quit Your wave Addiction
Finally you think you are addicted to wave and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for wave?
Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your wave addiction.
Main steps and solutions to break the wave addiction
- 1. Acknowledge the addiction: The first step in getting rid of wave addiction is acknowledging that you have a problem. Accepting the fact that you are addicted to surfing, for example, is crucial to moving forward.
- 2. Identify triggers: Once you have acknowledged your addiction, identify the triggers that make you want to surf. It could be a certain time of day, a particular location, or even the sight of your surfing gear.
- 3. Create a plan: Create a plan that will help you avoid your triggers. This could include finding activities to distract you during the times when you normally surf or avoiding places where you typically surf.
- 4. Seek support: Surround yourself with people who support your efforts to quit surfing addiction. Join a support group or talk to a therapist who can help you work through your addiction.
- 5. Find new hobbies: Replace your surfing addiction with new hobbies or activities that you enjoy. This can help fill the void left by your addiction and give you a new focus.
- 6. Stay committed: Getting rid of wave addiction is not easy, and there will be setbacks along the way. However, it is important to stay committed to your plan and keep moving forward, even when it feels difficult.
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 wave:
1. Purge temptations: Get rid of wave
First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your wave 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: