Addiction is regarded by most individuals as a serious condition, typically involving addictions like alcohol consumption, illegal drug use or gambling. However, it is important to realize that other more everyday items and activities can also be habit forming and ultimately addictive. For many college students, the internet is a helpful tool for education and a fun outlet for communicating with friends. For others, it is an addictive activity that simply cannot be lived without. Although using the internet regularly is not a sign of addiction, this guide will detail the other signs of internet addiction, why it is so rampant on college campuses and what can be done to treat the addiction.

What is Internet Addiction?

It is important not to confuse frequent internet use with internet addiction. Having an actual addiction to the internet means that even going an hour or two without an internet connection causes withdraw symptoms or feelings of loneliness. To be considered an internet addict, you would need to have internet access at all times on a computer, tablet or mobile phone.

Signs of Internet Addiction

It can be difficult to pinpoint signs of internet addiction in college students, since it so frequently used as a means of communication, education and entertainment. If a person prefers to spend time on the computer than with friends on a regular basis, that might be a sign of internet addiction. Other signs include things like missing classes or meals to spend time on the computer, lack of sleep due to late nights online or waking up in the middle of the night in order to check emails, message and chat room updates. Lights on from computers or mobile devices can even disrupt sleep for many internet addicts.

Internet Addiction on College Campuses

The demographic that is most likely to suffer from internet addiction are college age students. This generation has been raised with the internet from an early age, and most rely on technological advances to do everything from take notes in class to communicate with friends. College students have also recently left behind friends and family, and those who have a difficult time transitioning to dormitory life might rely far too heavily on the internet for companionship, ultimately leading to addiction.

Treating Internet Addiction

Because internet addiction is such a recent development, few people are qualified to deal with the issue in college students. However, there are ways that students can help themselves or others who seem to be addicted to the internet. Since so many people turn to the internet as a means of communication, become more social or encourage an internet addict to get outside, make friends and join some kind of organization. Creating real life networks is a great way to wean off internet usage, making it a healthy habit instead of an addictive one.

By understanding more about the occurrence and causes of internet addiction in college students, you might be able to recognize the symptoms in others or perhaps even yourself.

Now its your turn

Are you addicted to internet ?

Jeremy Clark is an accountant and content contributor comparing accelerated online mba programs for those who want to study from home.

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