Technology addiction has recently become a worldwide issue. Young and old alike are investing far too much of their time into mobile devices, computers, and gaming consoles.
Widely prevalent in Asian-Pacific countries, technology addiction is now recognized by psychologists in the region as a real mental illness. Though treatment for technology addiction is not easy to find in the United States, awareness is spreading like wildfire.
It helps to understand the key elements of technology addition in order to better avoid the struggle. Take a moment to read this short summary of a few of the most common signs, symptoms, causes, and treatments for technology addiction.
A few things we all should know
First things, first… An addiction to technology is an umbrella term that includes several different types of addictive behavior. Video gaming, online gambling, pornography, social media, and excessive texting are a few expressions of addiction to technology.
Also, internet addiction is capable of producing physical changes in the brain that are similar to those caused by substance abuse. Young people suffering from technology addiction have a higher risk of depression, obesity, carpal tunnel, and problems concentrating in the classroom.
Signs and symptoms of technology addiction
The first step to beating a technology addiction is to understand the common tell-tale signs and symptoms of a problem.
- Feeling invigorated at the thought of the next online session.
- An insatiable need to use the internet or some other form of technology.
- Feeling restless or irritable when denied access to technology.
- Constantly checking the cell phone or hearing phantom rings when no one is calling/messaging.
- Strong feelings of anxiety when away from mobile devices or computers.
- Lying to close friends and family about usage habits.
Physical symptoms of technology addiction may include:
- Excessive weight loss or gain.
- Carpal Tunnel/pain in hands and wrists.
- Unusual prevalence of headaches, neck aches, or backaches.
- Dry or red eyes.
- Possible causes of the uncontrollable draw.
Due to the fact that many countries have not yet officially classified as a mental health diagnosis, there have not yet been many scientific studies on the possible causes of technology addiction. So far, it is thought to be similar to a compulsive shopping, eating, or gambling addiction, and may possibly result from a combination of biological and environmental factors.
Treatments designed to relieve the addiction
Treatments for technology addiction have recently centered their efforts around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Technology is something that we live with every day. It is just as much a part of our lives as eating and sleeping, so it can be challenging to allay a addiction. Moderation, balance, and awareness of one’s behaviors are some of the most effective tools in technology addiction treatment.