One in ten millennials would rather lose a finger than their smartphone - are you addicted?
A new survey has revealed just how hooked we are on technology
When it comes to our smartphones, it’s obvious that us Brits – and most of the world for that matter – have got some serious problems. Our need to get 50 selfies at every outing and frantically monitor social media has become all-consuming.
And a new survey has confirmed all these fears about how hooked we are on tech.
In the study, from Tappable, researchers asked over 500 millennials aged 18-34 what they would prefer to forgo if it meant that they could keep their smartphone. One in ten millennials would be willing to lose a finger if it meant they could keep their smartphone.
38% would give up drinking for their device, 15% said they would swap sex for their smartphone and, incredibly, some 23% of millennials would rather lose one of their five senses than live without their smartphone.
“I can’t live without my phone, it’s integrated into every part of my life,” one respondent said.
Is this a familiar sight? Then you might be spending too much time on your phone
So how can you tell when your proclivity for over-using your smartphone is actually becoming a full-blown addiction?
These are the warning signs of technology addiction, according to Hilarie Cash, PhD., co-founder of the ReSTART Internet Addiction Recovery Program:
1. Compulsive checking of text messages
2. Frequent changing of statuses and uploading of selfies
3. A feeling of euphoria while on the Web
4. Social withdrawal
5. Loss of interest in activities that don’t involve a computer, phone or gadget
6. Feelings of restlessness when unable to go online
Read more: The World Heath Organisation says gaming addiction is a real mental health disorder
And it’s worth pointing out tech addiction is often linked with other mental health problems. “Depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder is common among Internet addicts, as is an addiction to alcohol or drugs,” according to experts at Addiction.com.
“If you’re concerned that you or a loved one is addicted to technology, it may be time to reach out to a health care professional or psychotherapist who can evaluate symptoms, make a diagnosis or rule out an addiction to technology and recommend a treatment plan.”
(Images: Getty / Unsplash)
