March 29, 2024

Dear Manang,
I am afraid that I have an addiction to Candy Crush. I tend to delay all my work while I play the game. I have several versions of this game. Sometimes, I am thankful when I lose all my five lives and get to put my iPad down but as an addict, you get ahead of yourself and somehow time the refill of the lives. You end up doing nothing the whole day any way. Is there some hope for me as with the others who are helpless when playing computer games?
Blonde of Carantes Street, Baguio City

Dear Blonde,
The common term for your addiction is behavioral addiction or to some other psychologists, process addiction. It is addiction because it affects the normal functions of your life, similar to that of drug addiction. Doctors say that the behavior combines reward, motivation, and memory in an unhealthy way. Family doctor.org says treatment is possible. First, you have to admit you have a non-substance addiction. Talk to your doctor. He or she may refer you to a mental health expert for more help. This help may involve cognitive behavioral therapy. This is talk therapy. It involves talking with your mental health professional about your addiction. It also may include advice about how to understand your addiction urges and how to handle them. Treatment for a non-substance addiction may also include treatment for depression or substance abuse, if needed.
Get help while it is early,
Manang

Dear Manang,
Is it greed if I want to keep working? My pension is not enough to buy my medicines and the regular checkups that I need. I have an online job and I am thinking of getting another one to augment to that. But I am already stressed as it is with the other one. What do you say?
Cruel me of Yandoc Street, Baguio City

Dear Cruel me,
I think you are digging your grave. Has it occurred to you that you are going to cause your health problems? As you make more money, your doctor will get richer. Why not chill and relax more now that you have your pension. Choose the less stressful work. Take life slow. Watch K drama. You might not need to go to the doctor anymore.
Enjoy life more,
Manang