Are You Addicted to Smartphones?

Do you feel reluctant to be without your smartphone, even for a short time? Do you find yourself mindlessly checking your phone many times a day even when you know there is likely nothing new or important to see? Do you sleep with your smartphone on or under your pillow or next to your bed regularly? If you answered yes to even one of these questions, you may be addicted.

Even though there are countless articles, studies, and lectures from friends and family that imply almost everyone nowadays seems to be addicted to their phone, you may not necessarily be addicted. Here are the signs of cell phone addiction:

1. You feel the need to use your phone more often to alleviate any anxiety.
2. You attempted to use your phone less often, but failed more than once.
3. You turn to your phone when you feel anxious, depressed, or nervous.
4. You're on your phone so much that you lose track of time.
5. Your excessive cell phone usage has put a relationship or job at risk.
6. You always need the newest phone and applications.
7. You feel angry, tense, depressed, irritable, anxious, or restless when you do not have your phone.

Did you find that you could relate to four or more of these statements? If so, then you are addicted. As with all addiction, there a physical and psychological effects.

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I'll start with the physical effects. Eye strain, which includes burning and itching, blurred vision, eye fatigue, and headaches, is very common for addicts. Neck pain from looking at your phone too long is known as "text neck." Some studies have determined that cell phone radiation causes male infertility and an increase in illnesses due to germs on phones. One example of bacteria that is found on some phones is e. coli, which can cause fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Those who text and drive are much more prone to car accidents. Research has shown that texting and driving has the potential to be just as dangerous as drinking and driving.

Psychological effects include depression and OCD. Phone usage before bed increase insomnia and sleep disturbances because the bright light can decrease sleep quality, active the brain, and increase the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. If a phone addict is on his or her phone too often in front of their significant other or friends, it could create strain in the relationship. Research has shown that addicts who use their phones more often feel more anxious when they do not have them or have an opportunity to have downtime.

It is true that more people are becoming addicted to cell phones especially during a time in which having a cell phone is seen as a necessity. How do we change this? If we teach young children how to use technology in moderation in the future, we may decrease the rate of addiction to cell phones. Time should be set aside at home and at school for children to play outside or without any technology with or on them.

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If you would like to learn more about addiction, there is an additional questionnaire at the bottom of this page.