How can I tell if I am in love with someone?

i'm 17 and I've known this boy for four years, we've never dated, but I guess you could say we were/are involved with each other. We haven't had sex. We've had a lot of ups and downs and have almost dated multiple times, but never happened. Everyone around me is saying I'm in love with him, but I deny it. I've tried on multiple occasions to leave him alone and not communicate with him, but it doesn't work. It's like no matter what I do, I don't know how to stay away from him. It's almost like he's an addiction to me. I hope when he goes to college my feelings will go away as well. I don't know what to do.

If you cant stop thinking about him then you love him. Especially if he seems like a addiction. Love is hard to fight trust me. Why not go for it this time? Why not actually date him if you both like each other? If there are certain reasons post a comment down below and il help to the best of my ability.