How To Recognize And Overcome Your Tech Addiction

In our current society, technology appears to be the dominant tool used at every turn. The reality is, technology has both greatly advanced and greatly invaded everyday life.

An Addiction

For the average person, there is not an hour that goes by without a notification from Twitter, a like from Facebook, a comment on Instagram, or a buzz from a text message. As time has progressed, the purposes of using technology have expanded dramatically. Technology is no longer only used for computing numbers and conducting research. Most individuals today carry hand held computers that enable communication across the globe and social media applications with unlimited entertainment. Is it possible that individuals are becoming too dependent on their personal tech? Perhaps even addicted?

An addiction is defined as having a physical or mental dependency on something, to the point that when use is stopped, negative effects are experienced. Imagine setting aside your personal phone, iPad, computer, or television for several weeks, a few days, or even a few hours. Could you do it?

Reviewing the Numbers

To put things into perspective on social media and technology use, let's review some statistics:

• There are 2.3 billion active social media users
• Social media users have risen by 176 million in the last year
• 12 new active mobile social users are added each second every day
• There are a total of 1.3 billion Twitter accounts
• 300 hours of video are uploaded to Youtube every minute
• Over 80 million photos are shared on Instagram each day
• Facebook has 1.65 billion users

The Danger

You might ask the question, why is frequent use of technology and social media an issue? It is true that there are positive benefits to using electronics, however, similar to anything, overuse can breed problems. Studies have shown that individuals who primarily communicate through a phone screen experience a decrease in interpersonal communication skills. Adolescents who spend a significant amount of time on social media subconsciously place high priority on receiving "likes" on their posts. Failure to acquire a seemingly acceptable number of likes or followers can lead to self-esteem and severe depression problems. If you are addicted to your personal tech, finding the right kind of treatment can remove your dependency.

Treatment

With technology consistently all around us, what can be done to ensure that it isn't consuming too much of our attention? Taking a step away from the technology buzz and enjoying the peace and seclusion nature offers is an excellent treatment plan.

It's time to get professional help. The environment at Wingate Wilderness Therapy is ideal for those who have technology abuse problems because they invoke the power of nature and force teens to "unplug" from both their routines and their electronics. Their therapeutic program has been known to get long-lasting results faster, building stronger, healthier teens in the process. Don't wait. Get the help you need today. Call (800) 560-1599 today!