The Impact of Technology on Addiction and Mental Health

Technology has become an inherent part of our everyday life. Everyone uses the internet day and night for different purposes. It’s common for people to be constantly plugged into social media and the internet for fear of missing important updates. Many jobs have also gone digital, increasing how we use technology. While technology has expedited and enhanced work processes, it has also raised questions over its negative influence on mental health. Since its emergence, research has shown a rapid increase in the number of people with technology/internet addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse report reveals excessive screen time affects brain structure and development. 

We constantly use technology daily without knowing that this habit has metamorphosed into an addiction, which is one reason for the rise of mental disorders among individuals globally. Technology addiction is a psychological dependence that has impaired many activities and reduced efficiency at school and work.

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Technological Influence on Mental Health

Technology has found its way into modern existence. Whether smartphones, laptops, or home gadgets, our lives revolve around screens and digital communications. The relationship between technology and mental health is quite deep, having its advantages and disadvantages.

The convenience of connecting with a loved one at any time, accessing information, and engaging in pleasurable activities, such as gaming and shopping, at a simple touch of the screen summarizes the profound benefit of technology. However, when these gadgets are used excessively to an extent, they begin to lower our performance, leaving us at risk of addiction and eventually a mental health disorder.

 Constant consumption of digital content can be detrimental to our mental health. Social media addiction, for example, can lead to compulsive checking and unrealistic comparisons, which fosters anxiety and depression. That’s not all! Excessive screen time can reduce sleep quality, concentration, and vision. The addictive nature of technology can impact psychological health.  

Technology addiction isn’t different from other forms of addiction, as it negatively impacts the prefrontal part of the brain, making it difficult to remember details, concentrate, or prioritize tasks. The addictive behavior will increase dopamine secretion, enabling you to crave more technology to achieve a certain level of pleasure. So, if you’ve been playing games, shopping, or chatting for hours, the increase in dopamine levels will force you to indulge in those above-mentioned activities more.

Signs You’re Suffering from Technological Addiction

Technology addiction is an obsessive behavior associated with the use of technology. As you know, almost everyone is always busy with their phones. So, how can you ascertain if one has a technology addiction? If you or someone else experiences the following signs, it indicates they may have an addiction:

• Constant use of technology, spending an enormous amount of time on it
• Experience withdrawal symptoms in the absence of it
• Requests more time to use technology
• Creates excuses to spend time on social media, gaming, or doing technology-related things
• Compulsive use, despite the negative consequences on physical and mental health
• Reduced work or school performance
• Inability to focus or prioritize tasks
• Difficulty to keep track of time
• Isolation. This happens if the person has few or no friends in real life but has a dozen on social media. This becomes a haven for them – a safe place to interact and obtain the pleasure they cannot get in real life.
• Blurred eyes and other vision problems caused by excessive screen time
• Bored of doing everyday tasks
• Poor personal hygiene
• Body pains, such as headaches and neck pain

Treating Technology Addiction

Proper treatment begins with acknowledging that you have a problem. Once you understand your condition, you can implement ways to break free from this addiction. Here are ways to overcome this addiction:

• Balance technology use: Set boundaries, restrict screen time, and recognize when technology use is becoming an addiction. Use some software to limit access to specific websites.
• Meditative exercises: You can also indulge in meditative activities, such as yoga, to help you stay focused. Yoga helps the body stay calm and removes terrible energies hindering your performance.  
• Seek professional help: Certified therapists or counselors will recommend the right therapy to help you improve. Currently, clients don’t need to see therapists physically, as online therapy platforms have risen significantly. These platforms are a more convenient, affordable, and accessible way to address addiction and mental health issues by connecting with a therapist via digital channels.

Grace Recovery Can Help You Deal with Technology Addiction

The negative relationship between technology and mental health is extensive. Technology addiction can significantly affect productivity and mental health. With the right help, you can resolve this issue and preserve your mental health. Grace Recovery Center is a well-equipped center to help you fight technology addiction. Our experienced therapists assess a patient’s addiction level and develop a comprehensive approach to foster lasting recovery. Contact us at (877) 554-7223 and learn how our inpatient drug rehab center in Los Angeles can help.