The internet's popularity has increased significantly over the years. According to (Netadiction) studies suggest that 1 in 8 Americans suffer from the internet addiction, also national surveys suggest that over 70% of internet addicts also suffer from other addictions manly to drugs and alcohol. Just like drug and alcohol addiction, internet addiction causes a desire to use the internet more and more in order to produce a satisfactory effect.
The internet has become an addiction for many people because of its variety of websites. It is a great tool for daily activities such as social networking, research, checking the weather, or just shopping. Individuals suffering from internet addiction spend less time with real people in their lives, and are often viewed as "socially awkward" (The Huffington Post). Unfortunately is the internet is used compulsively it can lead to many consequences. In adolescents internet addiction can have more drastic consequences such as lack of sleep which in some cases can cause certain areas of the brain to malfunction and make the individual more distracted.
Being addicted to the Internet can also cause physical discomfort or medical problems such as: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, dry eyes, backaches, severe headaches, eating irregularities, failure to attend to personal hygiene, and sleep disturbance (Unity Point Health).
Identifying the causes that lead to an internet Addiction before it becomes more severe can be difficult. One of the ways to prevent internet addiction is to treat risk factors such as loneliness, stress, depression, and anxiety. The treatment for internet addiction takes time and determination of the person being affected. Learning how to use the internet in moderation is often the main objective in the therapy.