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What is Internet Addiction?
Using the Internet can be AddictiveEveryone uses the Internet. Children today grow up using the Internet. And some people, develop a dangerously unhealthy dependency on the Internet.
5-10% of Internet users develop a dependency.
- Harvard Computer Addiction Study Center
5 Symptoms of an Internet Addiction
You spend more time than you want to online - but cannot stop.
You promise to stop using the Internet so much, but are unable to resist.
Your frequent surfing causes problems and relationship troubles. 
When you are not online, you frequently think about it or plan your next session online.
Your Internet use has a negative impact on other parts of your life - work, friendships, school, etc.
How to Treat Internet Addiction
- Install an Internet filter to block access to sites and control time spent online.
- Consider having an accountability partner to help and support you.
- Start keeping a journal to track thoughts and feelings connected to your compulsive behavior.
- Define distractions that can help you when you feel driven to be online.
- Define a specific and important purpose for recovering from a web addiction.
Do You Need Professional Help?
Compulsive Internet use is a serious problem that can become pathological. The longer it goes on, the harder recovery can be. Early intervention is the best chance of fast recovery. A web filter helps stop Internet use from turning compulsive. In the case that Internet use is disrupting life and harming your health, therapy can provide the immediate and intense support needed to get control and overcome the compulsive need to be online so much. A therapist will give you tools and skills to cope and help you get on the way to recovery.
