What is Technology Addiction?

As per the survey done by the addiction center, the prevalence of technology addiction in the United States is between 1.5% and 8.2%. Technology addiction is a condition that arises when one spends excessive time on digital media. This over-engagement can lead to addiction when it starts interfering with an individual’s day-to-day life. For instance, if the use of digital devices results in a decline in academic performance or hinders one’s social life, it can be classified as technology addiction. A person with technology addiction can become disconnected from reality and lose themselves in the digital world. Therefore, it is essential to take preventive measures to cut off or minimize technology use in such circumstances. Technology addiction has adverse effects on an individual’s overall well-being, leading to several physical and psychological imbalances that can affect other areas of life. Let’s now explore the impact of technology addiction on an individual’s health.

Effects of Technology Addiction

The impact of technology on an individual varies depending on various factors. Here are some common short-term and long-term effects of technology addiction.

Short Term Effects

• Disruption in sleep routine: According to technology addiction statistics, the average person in the US spends more time in front of electronic devices than asleep daily, at 8 hours and 41 minutes. The blue light emitted from screens disrupts sleep, resulting in daytime fatigue and irritability.
• Decreased concentration and focus: Excessive technology use can make it difficult to concentrate on tasks, reducing productivity, as individuals may constantly feel the urge to check their devices or engage in online activities.
• Behavioral change: Using technology excessively can lead to addiction, causing a person to become mentally unavailable in the physical world. This disconnection from the digital world can result in irritability, impulsiveness, and restlessness.
• Physical and mental health issues: Technology addiction can lead to physical challenges such as eye strain, headaches, neck and back pain, and reduced physical activity. It can also trigger anxiety and depression, affecting an individual’s mental state.

Long Term Effects

• Mental health disorders: Some researchers and mental health practitioners see excessive Internet use as a symptom of another disorder, such as anxiety or depression, rather than a separate entity. Thus, technology addiction can trigger mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity, which can have severe consequences for a person’s overall well-being.
• Decrease in overall performance: Excessive technology use can lead to a decline in a person’s concentration, affecting their productivity and overall performance.
• Relationship issues: People with technology addiction spend more time on digital devices. They start prioritizing their social life over reality. It starts creating problems in their relationships and affects their bond.
• Health complications: A person with technology addiction has a higher risk of developing obesity, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal issues, and other physical health complications.
• Financial crunch: Technological addiction can compel a person to develop unusual, expensive habits under the stigma of social influence. It can affect an individual’s financial state as well.

Technology Addiction Treatment

The lack of an established method for technology addiction treatment may be one of the reasons why it is becoming more prevalent. However, there are available treatments that can help to overcome this addiction. Below are some examples of such therapies.

• Cognitive behavioral therapy: This therapy helps individuals develop coping skills to overcome addiction and regulate their technology use. In a study conducted by NCBI, participants showed improved motivation to stop internet abuse and a better ability to control computer use post this therapy treatment.
• Mindfulness techniques: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, help individuals become self-aware and mitigate stress related to technology addiction.
• Assessment and diagnosis: This technology addiction treatment involves self-assessment through questionnaires, interviews, and observation of technology use patterns. After completing this assessment, the medical practitioner suggests a suitable diagnosis.
• Psychoeducation: Gaining knowledge about technology addiction treatment is the first step toward overcoming addiction. It is essential to understand the impact of technology addiction on mental and physical health to understand better the strategies for managing digital habits.
• Support groups: Participating in support groups or peer-led programs provides individuals with a sense of community, validation, and encouragement to address and cope with technology addiction.

Preventive measures against Technology Addiction

As wisely said, prevention is better than cure. Therefore, one must be cautious of these technology measures before the condition compels one to take technology addiction treatment.

• Set digital boundaries by establishing a tech-free zone that restricts the use of applications that are highly addictive.
• Get involved in such activities that don’t require technological engagement.
• Keep digital devices away while sleeping; this can help avoid any disturbance during sleep.
• Monitor the screen time on a routine basis and try to set targets for its reduction.
• Be socially more engaging to avoid overdependence on digital media for social validation.
• Participating in some hobbies and family activities can reduce the dependency on digital devices for entertainment and relaxation.