Welcome to our digital detoxing series! A series on how to stop addiction to Fortnite, Facebook, Instagram, Porn, Netflix, Youtube, Tinder… (find them all here).Today, let’s talk about how to quit the whatsapp addiction.
- What is the whatsapp addiction?
- What is considered whatsapp addiction?
- How much whatsapp is too much?
- Do whatsapp addiction facts & statistics exist?
- Symptoms & Causes of the whatsapp addiction
- Symptoms & Signs of whatsapp addiction
- Possible causes of whatsapp dependency
- Why is whatsapp so addictive?
- Problem, bad effects & consequences of whatsapp
- creating general health problems
- affecting your brain & mental health
- affecting your relationships
- How to stop your whatsapp addiction
- Main steps and solutions to break the whatsapp addiction
- Best whatsapp blocker apps & software
- Best books to quit whatsapp
- where to seek extra help?
- Conclusion
Am I Addicted To whatsapp?
About whatsapp

WhatsApp is a messaging app for smartphones that allows users to send text, audio, and video messages to one another. The app also allows users to share their location, exchange contacts, and make voice and video calls.
Addiction to whatsapp, 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 whatsapp addiction?
There is no official diagnosis of “whatsapp addiction,” but there are certainly people who spend an excessive amount of time using the app. If someone’s use of whatsapp is interfering with their work, school, or personal relationships, it could be indicative of a larger problem.
So what is the definition of “whatsapp addiction”?
WhatsApp addiction is a condition in which a person feels a compulsive need to use the WhatsApp messaging app despite potential negative consequences.
What is considered whatsapp addiction?
How much whatsapp is too much?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual’s usage habits and preferences. However, some general guidelines that may be useful include limiting whatsapp usage to no more than an hour per day, or using it only for specific purposes such as communication with friends and family.
Additionally, it is important to be mindful of how much time is spent on other activities such as work, school, and leisure pursuits, in order to ensure that whatsapp does not become a distracting or intrusive presence in one’s life.
Some technology addiction facts & statistics

There is no definitive data on the prevalence of technology addiction, as it is not an officially recognized diagnosis. However, some estimates suggest that up to 8 percent of people may be affected by problematic internet use or other forms of technology addiction. This figure is likely to be higher in certain populations, such as young people and gamers. There is also evidence that rates of technology addiction are on the rise, due to the increasing use of and dependence on technology in our everyday lives.
Is the whatsapp addiction widespread?
We don’t have access to the exact number of people who are addicted to WhatsApp. However, WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide, with over 2 billion active users as of2021. Like any other addictive technology,it is possible that some users may become addicted to using the app excessively.
Symptoms & Causes of the whatsapp addiction
Why is whatsapp so addictive?
There are a number of reasons why WhatsApp may be addictive. For one, it is a very convenient way to stay in touch with friends and family. It is also a very visual way to communicate, which can appeal to people who are more visual learners.
Additionally, WhatsApp offers a lot of features that other messaging apps do not, such as the ability to make voice and video calls, which can make it more engaging for users.
Possible causes of whatsapp dependency
WhatsApp addiction can be caused by a number of factors, including the need to stay connected with friends and family, the need to feel connected to a social group, or the need to be constantly available for work or other obligations. WhatsApp addiction can also be caused by the addictive nature of the app itself, which can provide a constant stream of new and interesting content to users.
Signs & Symptoms of whatsapp addiction
Now let’s see if you have the whatsapp addiction problem
- 1. You can’t go more than a few hours without checking your WhatsApp messages.
- 2. You feel anxious when you miss a WhatsApp notification.
- 3. You often spend more time chatting on WhatsApp than you do talking to people in real life.
- 4. You’ve even used WhatsApp while driving.
- 5. You frequently change your WhatsApp profile picture and status.
- 6. You’ve sent a WhatsApp message to the wrong person.
- 7. You can’t imagine life without WhatsApp.
Problems, impacts & bad effects of whatsapp: should you quit your whatsapp addiction?

What are some benefits of whatsapp
Some pros and advantages of WhatsApp include:
-It is a cross-platform app, so it can be used on multiple devices including iOS, Android, Windows Phone, etc.
-It uses your phone number as your identifier, so you don’t need to remember a username or password.
-It has end-to-end encryption, so your messages are private and secure.
-It is free to use, with no ads or subscription fees.
-It has a simple, user-friendly interface.
-It offers a variety of features such as text messaging, voice and video calling, group chat, etc.But at the opposite, what can be some whatsapp addiction problems addicts suffer from?
general health problems
WhatsApp can have a positive or negative effect on your health, depending on how you use it. If you use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, it can be a great way to stay connected. However, if you use WhatsApp to share sensitive information or to coordinate illegal activities, it can have negative consequences.
whatsapp and sleep disorder
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that WhatsApp can directly create sleep disorders or sleep problems. However, excessive use of technology, including WhatsApp, can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and insomnia. This is because the blue light emitted by devices can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Additionally, constant notifications from messaging apps like WhatsApp can disrupt sleep by interrupting the sleep cycle and causing the brain to remain active. It is recommended to limit the use of technology before bedtime to promote healthy sleep habits.
whatsapp affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?
Some effects of whatsapp on your brain
Some effects of whatsapp on your mental health
WhatsApp can have a negative effect on your mental health if you use it excessively. The constant need to be connected to friends and family can lead to anxiety and stress, and you may find yourself feeling isolated if you are not using the app.
Additionally, the app can be addictive, and you may find yourself spending more time on it than you intended. This can lead to sleep problems and other health issues. If you are concerned about your mental health, it is important to limit your use of WhatsApp and to seek help from a professional if needed.
Does whatsapp cause stress and anxiety?
Yes, excessive use of WhatsApp and the constant notifications and messages can lead to stress and anxiety. The fear of missing out on important messages or notifications can also cause anxiety. Moreover, the pressure to respond quickly to messages and the expectation to always be available can also lead to stress and anxiety. It is important to set boundaries and take breaks from technology to manage stress and anxiety related to WhatsApp use.
Can whatsapp addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Dopamine and whatsapp
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. When we receive positive feedback or accomplish a goal, dopamine is released in the brain, causing a feeling of pleasure and satisfaction.
WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows users to communicate with others through text, voice, and video. The app has become increasingly popular in recent years, with over 2 billion active users worldwide.
Studies have shown that social media apps like WhatsApp can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain. When we receive a notification or message from someone on the app, it can create a sense of excitement and anticipation, which can lead to an increase in dopamine levels. This can create a cycle of addiction, as users become hooked on the feeling of receiving notifications and messages on the app.
Overall, while WhatsApp can be a useful tool for communication, it is important to be aware of the potential impact it can have on our brain chemistry and behavior.
whatsapp effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…
Yes, WhatsApp can have a negative impact on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance. The constant notifications and messages can be distracting, making it difficult to concentrate on tasks and assignments.
Additionally, spending too much time on WhatsApp can lead to procrastination and a lack of productivity. It can also disrupt sleep patterns and lead to fatigue, which can further impact academic performance. Therefore, it is important to use WhatsApp in moderation and set boundaries to ensure that it does not interfere with academic or professional goals.
A word about ADHD and whatsapp
There is no definitive answer to this question as it can vary from person to person. However, some people with ADHD may find it difficult to focus on lengthy conversations or may struggle to keep up with multiple chats at once. They may also be more prone to impulsively sending messages without fully considering the consequences. However, with the help of strategies such as setting reminders, using the app’s organizational features, and taking breaks to refocus, people with ADHD can effectively use WhatsApp like anyone else. Ultimately, it depends on the individual’s specific challenges and coping mechanisms.
affecting your relationships
whatsapp and self-esteem
There are a few ways in which WhatsApp can affect self-esteem:
1. Comparison with others:People often use WhatsApp to share updates about their lives, such as achievements, travel experiences, or social events. This can lead to comparison with others, which can negatively affect self-esteem if one feels they are not measuring up.
2. Fear of missing out (FOMO): WhatsApp groups can create a sense of FOMO, where people feel left out if they are not part of a certain group or conversation. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem.
3. Cyberbullying:WhatsApp can also be used as a platform for cyberbullying, where individuals can be targeted and harassed by others. This can lead to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and low self-esteem.
Overall, while WhatsApp can be a useful tool for communication and staying connected with others, it is important to be mindful of its potential impact on self-esteem and take steps to protect oneself from negative effects.
whatsapp addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?
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Yes, excessive use of WhatsApp can lead to isolation and loneliness. People who are addicted to WhatsApp may spend more time using the app than interacting with people in the real world, which can lead to social isolation. They may also become less interested in spending time with friends and family, which can further exacerbate feelings of loneliness.
Additionally, if people become too reliant on WhatsApp for social interaction, they may struggle to develop real-life communication skills, making it more challenging for them to form and maintain relationships.
Effects of whatsapp on your relationship
How To Stop & quit Your whatsapp Addiction

Finally you think you are addicted to whatsapp and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for whatsapp?
Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your whatsapp addiction.
Main steps and solutions to break the whatsapp addiction
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 whatsapp:
1. Purge temptations: Get rid of whatsapp
First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your whatsapp 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:
Click here if you want to see more of the Digital Purge!
2. Spot & Reveal your emotional triggers
Second, there are some reasons, often hidden ones, that your brain and your heart love so much whatsapp. Those reasons act as triggers to pull your cravings. Rather than chasing the addiction, it’s a more efficient strategy to look at the feelings driving you toward it. That way you can cure and heal the feeling. You’ll feel better and the cravings will magically disappear. Just get away.
3. Rewire to life

An addiction FOMO (fear of missing out) can be huge and really painful to resist, especially if it was here for a long time. However learning to live with it is necessary to build a life full of peace and joy. Strategies to fight FOMO and rewire to life include meditation, nature activities, social interaction, intellectual and creative projects, meaningful adventures… basically anything that fill your soul.
4. How to not relapse and fully recover from whatsapp?
Finally, it’s important to acknowledge that quitting may takes days, weeks, months or even years. Getting over and quitting whatsapp forever can be difficult. You may relapse a few times, but the most important is that you keep engaging less and less with whatsapp. Each day you resist to it is a day weakening your brain connections with whatsapp. From your patience and discipline will arise incredible mind strength, hope and wisdom.

Best whatsapp blocker apps & functionalities
Additionally, you can increase your chance of withdrawal by limiting or blocking access to whatsapp using those apps.
They I’ll help you to filter, reduce or block whatsapp:
where to seek extra help?
Do you need some support and help to stop and overcome and recover from your whatsapp addiction? If you or someone you know is struggling with whatsapp addiction, there are a few places to seek help.
The Ultimate Rewiring Program For whatsapp Addicts
Our course The Digital Purge. This course has already helped many digital addicts to rewire to what matter.
Is there a “treatment” to cure technology addiction?
Does technology therapy exist?
Yes, therapy for technology addiction does exist. It is often referred to as “digital detox” or “internet addiction treatment.” The therapy is designed to help individuals overcome their excessive use of technology, including social media, video games, and other digital devices. The treatment typically involves a combination of counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness-based techniques. The goal of therapy is to help individuals develop healthier habits and relationships with technology, improve their social skills and communication, and reduce their dependence on digital devices.
Where to find support groups if you are addicted to whatsapp?
But other whatsapp addiction solutions exist
Conclusion
If you’re struggling with WhatsApp addiction, know that you’re not alone. There are many ways to overcome this addiction, and with some effort, you can get your life back on track. Take some time to assess your relationship with WhatsApp and make a plan to cut back on your usage. Set boundaries for yourself and stick to them. Find other activities to fill your time, and reach out to friends and family for support. With a little effort, you can overcome your WhatsApp addiction and live a healthier, happier life.
To go further, please check our course The Digital Purge.
To go further
How to help someone with whatsapp addiction?
Best books about technology addiction
- 1. Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal
- 2. The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains by Nicholas Carr
- 3. How to Break Up with Your Phone: The 30-Day Plan to Take Back Your Life by Catherine Price
- 4. Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age by Sherry Turkle
- 5. iGen: Why Today’s Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy–and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood–and What That Means for the Rest of Us by Jean M. Twenge
Research about technology addiction
1. “Internet Addiction: A Review of Current Assessment Techniques and Potential Assessment Questions,” by Mark D. Griffiths, published in CyberPsychology & Behavior, 2005.
2. “Problematic Internet Use: A Review of the Research,” by David L. King, Daria J. Kowert, and Hanna-Sophie Gleich, published in Internet Interventions, 2014.
3. “Technology Addiction: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Research,” by Andrew K. Przybylski and Netta Weinstein, published in Current Opinion in Psychology, 2017.
4. “Overuse of Technology: Implications for Health and Wellbeing,” by Heather L. Kirkorian, published in Developmental Review, 2018.
5. “Smartphone Addiction, Daily Interruptions and Self-Reported Productivity,” by Wilhelm Hofmann, Bettina von Helversen, and R. Scott Mackenzie, published in Journal of Personnel Psychology, 2019.
To go further, please check our course The Digital Purge.