In today’s digital age, it can become all too easy to spend hours each day on technology. From scrolling social media to many people today even working online, inevitably, all this time online can put you at risk of developing a technology addiction. While using technology doesn’t mean you’re struggling with a technology addiction, it’s important to look out for some warning signs of technology addiction to avoid. In this article, you’ll learn more about what technology addiction is, and how you can heal from it if you suspect you may be struggling with it.
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What is Technology Addiction?
According to the Pew Research Center, around 85% of Americans go online on a daily basis. And, about 3 in 10 U.S. adults say they are “almost constantly online”. Despite using technology on a daily basis, it can be difficult to recognize if your technology use is unhealthy, and whether you may be struggling with a technology addiction.
A technology addiction occurs when your use of technology starts negatively impacting your life. For example, a teen who is constantly playing video games may struggle with a technology addiction if they begin to choose video game time over important areas of their life, like attending school or socializing with others.
Unfortunately, because technology is so accessible and part of the majority of Americans’ daily lives, it can be difficult to differentiate whether you are abusing technology in your own life.
If you are unsure about whether you may be struggling with technology addiction, here are some signs to look out for:
- Neglecting important aspects of your life, such as your health, relationships, and work/school priorities
- Losing sleep because you are constantly using technology
- Constantly thinking about using technology when you are not using a device
- Being anxious about technology, or when the next time you’ll be able to be on your phone, computer, etc.
How to Heal From Technology Addiction
If you suspect you may be struggling with technology addiction, here are several steps you can take to stop abusing technology and start regaining control of your health and quality of life.
Recognize You Have a Problem
The first step virtually every addict must take, regardless of what you are addicted to, is acknowledging you have a problem.
Consider Seeking Professional Support
Next, seeking professional support can be highly beneficial to help you detox from abusing technology. It can also help you learn healthy coping strategies so you can use technology in a healthy way.
Establish Boundaries Around Using Technology
Create boundaries around when you will use technology and for what are other important ways in which you can work toward healing your technology addiction.
Consider Joining a Support Group
Finally, consider joining a support group with others who share similar experiences as you to learn from others and keep each other accountable along your recovery journey.
Help Is Available
Now you know more about technology addiction, and how you can heal from technology addiction if you suspect you may be struggling with it. It’s important not to undermine how serious technology addiction can be on your overall mental health, quality of life, and relationships. If you or someone you know is struggling with technology addiction, it’s critical to consider seeking professional support to safely break free from the chains of addiction for good.
At The Bridge to Recovery, our team of experienced mental health professionals is here to help you overcome mental health struggles and work toward healing. Ready to start your recovery journey? Contact us today!