If you have had one or more of the following experiences, your internet use has probably become addictive or compulsive.

1. You neglect relationships and other activities for sex on the net.
   
2. You are ashamed of the sites you visit.
   
3. You begin concealing or justifying your use of the net.
   
4. You turn to the net for relief when you are angry, sad, or anxious.
   
5. You resolve to cut back your time on the net but fail to do so.
   
6. Someone close to you complains about the time you spend on the net.
   
7. Time on the net seems more satisfying or .real. than everyday life.
   

Some experts debate whether internet addiction is real. But there is no doubt that compulsive use of the net, especially for sex, is becoming a painful and self-destructive problem for larger and larger numbers of people. Sex is the third largest commercial sector on the internet.

Stopping compulsive internet use can be done with help and perseverance. Some of the necessary steps include:

1. Letting go of the belief that will power alone should be enough to stop.
   
2. Accepting help to set boundaries that do stop your compulsive use.
   
3. Identifying the situations and feelings that trigger the desire to look for sex on the net.
   
4. Working with others (therapist, support group) to understand and change the more deeply seated beliefs and feelings about yourself that make you vulnerable to addiction.