I’m addicted to WhatsApp

[AmyNw1]

Please can I have some advice; I’m addicted to keep checking my messages on WhatsApp. It wasn’t too bad before but now it’s like an obsession I keep checking it and I keep responding to messages. I feel embarrassed that I keep responding to my childrens classes WhatsApp messages straight away. People must link I’m crazy! Weird thing is I have a stressful job and 3 kids but I still have time to keep checking my WhatsApp. Obviously cannot delete it as I have to use it for various reasons. Please help me, I feel such obesssive compulsion to keep checking it.

Sorry I forgot to mention - I also kept checking it to see incase I accidentally posted something I shouldn’t have. My 4 year old couple of weeks ago managed to get into my year 5 daughters WhatsApp group and recorded a voice message! Thank god it wasn’t anything too bad - it was just my voice in the background saying “(child name) can I have my phone please” but it was a sing songy voice which I’m embarrassed by. It was on there for a good hour before I realised!

There's loads of things you can try. Here are some suggestions from ChatGPT:

1.	Turn Off Non-Essential Notifications: Disable notifications for apps that are not critical, reducing the number of times your phone distracts you.
2.	Set Specific Times for Checking: Allocate specific times during the day to check your phone, and stick to this schedule.
3.	Use Do Not Disturb Mode: Activate Do Not Disturb during work hours or when you need to focus.
4.	Move Distracting Apps: Place apps that you frequently check on the second or third screen, making them less accessible.
5.	Use Apps to Limit Usage: Install apps that track and limit your phone usage, such as Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android).
6.	Engage in Other Activities: Find activities that engage you, like reading, exercising, or spending time with friends and family.
7.	Establish Phone-Free Zones: Create areas where phone use is not allowed, such as the dining room or bedroom.
8.	Reflect on Usage: Be mindful of why you’re reaching for your phone. Sometimes understanding the underlying reason can help you find alternative ways to address it.
9.	Keep Your Phone Out of Reach: When working or spending time with others, keep your phone in another room or out of immediate reach.
10.	Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness or meditation practices to improve your focus and reduce the compulsion to check your phone.