Cell phones and smartphones have quickly become a new technological obsession for people all over the world. In the last decade or so, more and more people own and use cell phones on a daily basis. These phones do more than just make phone calls; they now are like a miniature computer, where people can have instant access to the Internet, weather, and social media, just to name a few. Constant connection to friends, family, and loved ones is something everyone craves and can have with the help of smartphones. Because the newest phones are so commonly used in almost every environment, some people have become dependent on them to the point where it can hinder their ability to function normally in some cases. But what are the signs of cell phone addiction?
People who have a cell phone addiction can also be a danger to themselves and others. While most people enjoy using their cell phones, there are those who take it to an extreme level, and thus it becomes a serious problem. It’s important to be able to recognize the signs of cell phone addiction.
Warning Signs of Cell Phone Addiction
It is completely normal to talk on the phone and to check your phone on occasion, but this can become a serious issue when this usage exceeds a normal level. Here are a few warning signs that you or someone you know might have a cell phone addiction:
- Looking at or talking on the phone during business meetings or other important work-related functions
- Choosing to use a cell phone at family gatherings, weddings, or other get-togethers
- Texting, talking or checking a cell phone while driving a motorized vehicle
- Looking at a cell phone while walking simultaneously
- Ignoring others around you due to heavy cell phone usage
- Feelings of withdrawal or desperation when a users’ cell phone is off, missing, or unavailable
- Waking up in the middle of the night to use a cell phone, or getting less sleep because of cell phone use
How Cell Phone Addiction is Dangerous
Most people may not think of using a cell phone as being dangerous; however, those who are addicted to their phones pose a risk to themselves and potentially other people as well. The most dangerous effect of cell phone addiction is using the device while driving. If you’re looking at your phone when behind the wheel, you have immediately become distracted from other cars on the road, as well as the road itself. Recent studies have shown that the number of accidents and deaths as a result of cell phone use is on the rise. This is why it is extremely important to keep your phone off or away from you as you drive.
Other problems can include relationship issues. For example, if a couple has a member who uses their cell phone constantly, it can take away the attention from each other, causing a strain on the relationship. Some spouses may even begin to suspect cheating, since the other party often chooses to look at their phones instead of spending quality time with their significant other. Cell phone addiction is also a serious problem for kids and teenagers. Heavy use of phones can create problems in school, distracting students from their studies.
When at home, make sure your child is not using their phone during study time. If you’re at a party with friends or out on the town with your buddies, you may notice that some of them spend the majority of their time looking at and using their cell phones. This is not only annoying, but many people also consider it rude.
Treatment for Cell Phone Addiction
Believe it or not, cell phone addiction has become such an issue that there are now actual recovery centers that help counsel people for their addictions. Although cell phone addiction is not the same as being addicted to alcohol or drugs, it is still a serious problem that requires attention.
Cell phone addiction is real. People who suffer from cell phone addiction can be a danger to themselves and others. Learn to recognize the signs of cell phone addiction. If you notice them in a loved one, contact Morningside Recovery. Call 855-631-2135 to get help today from one of our rehab programs.
By Michelle Conway
