Email & Internet Addiction

Laptop usage can be addicting.

Internet addiction can range from compulsively checking email to cybersex, compulsive gambling, online gaming and compulsive surfing, according to Netaddiction.com, the Center for Internet Addiction.

Definition

Netaddiction.com defines Internet addiction as "any online-related, compulsive behavior which interferes with normal living and causes severe stress on family, friends, loved ones and one's work environment."

Prevalence

Internet addiction is a growing problem in the U.S. and abroad. Netaddiction.com states that countries, including Italy, Germany, the Czech Republic, China, Korea, and Taiwan, are reporting that Internet addiction has become a serious health concern. Estimates show that one in eight Americans has an email or Internet addiction.

Symptoms

The Canyon, a rehab and substance abuse treatment center in California, says the main symptoms of an email or Internet addiction, include checking email several times an hour, compulsive use of the Internet, a preoccupation with getting online, using the Internet to alter mood, lying about online behavior or the inability to control the use of online sources.

Causes

Email and Internet addictions stem from the same causes that fuel other addictions, including drugs or alcohol. Internet addicts shy away from healthy relationships, opting instead for virtual ones.

Treatment

Counseling and treatment centers are available to people caught in online addictions.

References

• Netaddiction: FAQs
• The Canyon: Is Internet Addiction the Socially Acceptable Drug of the 21st Century?