By Amanda Goodman

We exist in a technologically advanced age. You can’t walk five steps down the hallway without seeing at least half a dozen people on their smart phones. After a long day of zoning out during class, the first thing on the agenda when getting home is to go online. This isn’t a bad thing if you still manage to be productive, but if you can’t, then you may be addicted to the Internet. Not sure if you’re an addict? Here are three telltale signs to help you out.

1.Online Video Streaming
Were you scrolling on your Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram page and suddenly saw a picture or gif of an attractive man or woman from an overly sensationalized TV show? The top three shows ruling the web right now are called the Super-Who-Lock, or Supernatural: basically Doctor Who and Sherlock combined. Like many others, these shows seem innocent at first, but once you get through the first episode you find yourself calculating how many more you can watch and still manage to get a decent amount of sleep. You may find yourself more concerned for a fictional character’s problems than your own. If you do, I suggest one week without the ‘Flix to wean yourself off of this addiction.’

2.Smartphones
Are friends, parents and teachers constantly nagging you to put away your cell phone? If you’re like most teenagers, then that answer is yes. Cell phones were meant for you to be able to message or call someone if you had no other way of talking to them. But today they are used to discreetly text your friend in the same classroom. (Don’t think it goes unnoticed.) Pocket-sized gadgets have evolved into miniature laptops that need their own carrying cases. Abuse of texting privileges is a flashing sign that you need to put it away for a bit. Pick up a book, pay attention in class, have an actual conversation with your family: just don’t resort to messaging someone who is right next to you.

3.Social Media
Have you fallen victim to “Hashtag Fever”? I hope you haven’t, it leads to dry, red eyes and the tendency to say “LOL” in real life conversations. Twitter is taking over the Internet, with Facebook, Instagram and Tumblr following close behind. If all you ever do when you use your phone or computer is update your status or upload a photo of your lunch with a black and white filter, then you need to reconsider your priorities. #Do #All #Your #Posts #Look #Like #This? If so, please consult your family doctor and work on getting rid of that nasty Hashtag Fever.