Internet overuse and addiction

As part of modern day life, a significant amount of time is spent online. This involves both study and work related activities and also social and entertainment spheres.

Internet overuse refers to excessive time spent online at the expense of other things. This could mean becoming too involved in internet activities such as gaming or chat rooms at the expense of socialising or studying.

Symptoms of internet addiction

The symptoms of internet addiction include:

  • Increasing amounts of time spent online
  • When offline obsessing about online activity
  • Unsuccessful effort to control, cutback or stop internet use
  • Mood swings including feeling restless, irritable, anxious or depressed when offline or attempting to cut down internet usage
  • Use of the Internet as a way to escape from problems, or day to day responsibilities
  • Significantly affecting or putting at risk relationships, studies and work because of internet use.

How to get help

If you think you are addicted to the internet, it may be useful to seek professional help. You can make an appointment to see a counsellor.

If you'd like more support, come along to one of our workshops or make an appointment for individual counselling.

Explore student workshops

Make a counselling appointment