There is no denying that the technology around us today helps to make our life easier. We have innovations and conveniences around us that previous generations could only fantasize about. With those new inventions comes an unforeseen dangers of digital addiction that threatens our everyday mental health. There are new types of addictions that have formed that most could not have anticipated but is becoming increasingly common: Digital Addictions
The dangers of digital addiction has been written on the wall for some time. Steve Jobs and Bill Gates are often considered the leaders of technological innovation, yet they have admitted to not letting their children use the technology they’ve helped create. That is no accident, and we should all take heed to their perspective when it comes to exposure time to technology and how long we’re spending on our devices. People who are addicted to their devices may spend hours on them every day, and may feel anxious or irritable when they are not using them. They may also neglect their work, school, or social life in favor of spending time online. Digital addiction can be just as harmful as any other type of addiction. It can lead to social isolation, mental health problems, and even financial ruin. If you think you may be addicted to your digital devices, it is important to seek help from a professional.
How to Recognize If You’re Addicted to Your Devices
If you’re asking yourself, “am I addicted to technology?” then chances are you are already showing symptoms and are interested in addressing the issue. Recognizing the issue can still be hard and it’s important to utilize resources available to you to seek treatment. Ask yourself some of these questions: Do you spend a significant amount of time playing video games? Do you have a constant interest in making internet purchases? Is it difficult for you to avoid Facebook? Is your use of technology affecting your daily life — such as relationships, employment, or school — in any way? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be suffering from the dangers of digital addiction.
Technology addiction is a broad term that can describe different types of problematic behavior. Some people might be addicted to online gambling, while others might compulsively shop online. Others might spend hours scrolling through social media feeds or playing video games. No matter the type of digital addiction, Omega Recovery offers a free online quiz that might offer some insight.
The Negative Effects of Digital Addiction
When it comes to digital addiction there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as everyone experiences addiction differently. With so many different technologies out there, many often becomes addicted to multiple devices and activities at once. However, there are some common signs and symptoms between all of them that might help you determine if you’re addicted to your digital devices:
Preoccupation with technology: Constantly thinking about using devices or being upset when you can’t use them or continue to use your devices despite the negative consequences it has on your life.
Withdrawal symptoms: You often feel anxious or irritable when you’re not using your devices. Feeling restless, irritable, or grumpy when you can’t use technology
Tolerance: You use your devices as a way to escape from problems or negative feelings and use technology more and more to get relief
Neglecting important aspects of life: You spend a lot of time on your devices every day, to the point where it interferes with other aspects of your life. Letting hobbies fall by the wayside or not completing work assignments
Internet addiction disorder, social media addiction, and video game addiction are some of the most common types of digital addiction. However, there is still much research to be done in this field to determine the root causes of these addictions and how best to treat them. One of the top researchers into the subject is Dr. Nicholas Kardaras.
How Omega Recovery Reduces the Dangers of Digital Addiction
Dr. Kardaras is an Ivy-League educated psychologist, an internationally renowned speaker, one of the founder of Omega Recovery and considered a leader among foremost Technology Addiction experts. A former Clinical Professor at Stony Brook Medicine where he specialized in teaching the neurophysiology and treatment of addiction, he has also taught neuropsychology at the doctoral-level and has worked closely in developing clinical protocols with Dr. Howard Shaffer, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and the Director of their Division of Addiction.
Programs used at Omega Recovery we’re in part developed by Dr. Kardaras and some of the most effective treatments for technology addiction. Some common treatments that can help you overcome your addiction and get your life back on track:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help you identify the negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to your addiction, and replace them with more positive ones.
- Support Groups: There are many online and in-person support groups available to help you recover from digital addiction. These groups provide a safe and supportive environment where you can share your experiences and connect with others who understand what you’re going through.
- Technology Detox: This is a process of removing yourself from all digital devices and social media for a period of time, in order to reset your relationship with technology.
- Limit your screen time: One way to prevent digital addiction is to limit the amount of time you spend on your devices each day. Set clear boundaries for yourself, and stick to them.
- Get outside: Make sure to take breaks from your devices and spend time outdoors in nature. This will help you reduce stress and anxiety, and boost your mood.
Finding the Help Needs for Technology Addiction
If you or someone you love is struggling with a digital addiction, it’s important to reach out for help. Omega Recovery offers a free online assessment that can help you better understand your unique situation and needs. From there, our team of experts can develop a personalized treatment plan that will address your specific issues. We offer outpatient treatment options so that you can receive the care you need in a way that fits your lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you overcome your digital addiction. We can be reach by phone at (512) 601-5407 or visit our contact page to get started
