The serious implications of drug addiction and substance abuse can make the idea of internet addiction sound laughable to some. While it might not seem like a big problem, internet addiction is can range from a nuisance to a devastating problem.

Research on the problem of internet addiction began in 1996 with studies conducted by Dr Kimberly Young. Today, the disorder has become serious enough that several treatment centers now take the disorder seriously and offer support. The prevalence of internet addiction is difficult to measure, but several studies suggest that at least one in eight Americans displays at least one sign of internet abuse.

The eight symptoms of web addiction start with a preoccupation for online activities.

-If you find yourself thinking about things you recently did on the internet, or feel a sense of anticipation about your next online activity, you may have a problem.

-If you need to spend more and more time on the internet to achieve the same level of satisfaction from using it, this is another sign.

-If you have tried to stop, cut back, or control your internet use and failed, this is another symptom.

-If you cut down on internet use or are deprived of internet access, you might feel irritated, depressed, or moody.

-When you get on the internet, you might find yourself spending more time online than you originally intended to.

-A strong sign of internet addiction is that you risk losing an important relationship, a job, or a life opportunity because of internet use.

-If you lie about your internet use or take steps to hide it, this is another strong sign of addiction.

-Finally, if the internet is your way of escaping from depression, guilt, anxiety, or helplessness, you may have an addiction.

While you need to have five of these symptoms to be technically diagnosed with internet addiction, experiencing any of these symptoms may be a sign that it could be helpful to speak with a psychologist. The main question to ask yourself is whether internet use is interfering with your ability to live life the way that you want to.

For more information on mood disorders and addiction, contact Solace Counseling. You can also follow us on Twitter or Facebook.