Digital addiction, or technological addiction, depending on preference, is characterized as the excessive and compulsive use of the internet, online activities that can lead to negative consequences in someone’s life. This issue is not limited to the internet; it applies to any digital content that utilizes an electronic screen, which is problematic. These can be things like social media addictions (obsessive need to check and update social media platforms), internet gaming disorder (excessive use of video games), online gambling (playing beyond your financial capacity), online shopping addiction (impulsive buying online), and porn addiction.
Each one of the addictions mentioned above is a part of digital addiction and is a significant problem. Digital addictions are along the lines of food addiction in that we cannot simply go without. You cannot merely forgo all forms of screens or internet usage, as is a possibility in other addictions (cigarettes, marijuana, and alcohol), it becomes trickier to manage, to learn the right amount of digital usage that does not lead to problems.
A big part of the reference to addiction is framed in an understanding that it is only a problem if it leads to a neglect of responsibilities, reduction in physical health, disruption of genuine world relationships, and ultimately, a disruption in an individual's personal life. Learning to strike a balance between utilizing the digital world and not being overwhelmed by it can be a tricky task, and it’s essential to seek help with it.
Being addicted to digital addiction can involve numerous different factors, including psychological, social, and environmental. Those with pre-existing mental health issues (depression, anxiety), those experiencing social isolation (peer pressure, lack of social connection), and the convenience of the internet can play a role in developing digital addictions.
One of the first steps to dealing with digital addiction is to reach out to a mental health professional (Sentinel Psychotherapy does offer Digital addiction therapy). A mental health professional can help identify the aspects of digital usage that are causing problems and provide guidance on how to address them in a way that enables you to return to the life you want. Treatment for digital addictions can also include Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), therapy that focuses on awareness and understanding behaviours, developing better coping mechanisms, mindfulness techniques, and motivations, and intervening can all help.
There are many ways to prevent digital addictions from forming, and oftentimes, the best way to deal with digital addictions is not to have them in the first place. To that end, if you worry you are on the precipice, seek help from a professional beforehand; in the long run, it can help.
In the meantime:
Despite the benefits of technology, compulsive technology use can have a significantly negative impact on our everyday lives in ways that may not be fully apparent. Headaches, sleep disruption, and eye strain are some of the physical effects that may indicate overuse of technology. If you have concerns, please reach out to us today for a complimentary 15-minute consultation at Sentinel Psychotherapy.
By Andre Stam, RP, CCC, OCT, is a psychotherapist who specializes in sleep, teacher support, burnout, anxiety, and depression. He has training in CBT. CBT-I, DBT, SE, and Narrative therapy.
