We live in a fast-paced, more complicated world. We are continuously running about, attempting to complete tasks. The media is all around us. There is a lot of noise and bustle. Technology assists us in meeting the increasing demands of living in a busy society, but if not properly controlled, it has the potential to take over your life. It is critical to take time away from technology and unplug it.
We understand that when traveling, technology has become a must, as every process needs the support of technology. But prior to traveling, you can use tech to sort the trip out and then unplug yourself. For example, if you’re traveling to Arizona, you can use your mobile phone to rent a sprinter van in Phoenix, and as mentioned, after that, unplug.
Regularly disconnecting from your phone and other technological devices might enhance not just your health but also your relationships. This is how.
How Do You Tell If You Have a Mobile Phone Addiction?
Indeed, mobile phone addiction exists. It is necessary to examine and reply to your mobile device regularly. 50% of teenagers admit to being addicted to their cell phones. How can you tell if you’re addicted? When it begins to interfere with your capacity to function in your life and with your relationships, you know you’re in trouble, just like any other addiction. Among the warning indicators are:
- If you can’t locate a signal, you’re reaching your data limit, or your battery is running low, you should be concerned.
- Panic attacks when you are unable to check your email, social media, or search the internet regularly.
- When you don’t know what to do when your phone isn’t with you.
- If you discover that your capacity to think is impaired due to the absence of your phone.
Any or all of these symptoms may signal a major condition. There have been studies that reveal parallels between the brain processes of someone who is continuously checking their phone and drug abusers. The good news is that following cognitive behavioral treatment, those who were addicted to their mobile phones were able to reset their brains to a condition more similar to their non-addict counterparts.
Cell Phone Addiction and Its Consequences
Our brains are continuously craving novelty, which is why the internet, and especially any technology that allows you to carry the internet with you everywhere you go, can be so addicting. But, being hooked to continual stimulation and novelty has major consequences. It can cause melancholy, impulsive conduct, mental decline, and marital breakdown.
Social networking, for example, appears to be a fantastic concept. It allows individuals to interact and exchange information online. Regrettably, it is the farthest thing from reality. Humans meticulously edit their lives. When you look at social media, you only see the positive, never the negative or the ugly. This might skew your perception of the world and your role in it. As a result, depression sets in. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a 65% increase in suicide rates among adolescent females between 2010 and 2015, as well as a 58% increase in major depression.
Another research indicated that 48% of persons who spent five or more hours a day on their phones had pondered suicide or made preparations to commit suicide.
About half of all adults aged 18 to 33 admit to texting and driving. Fifty percent of adults aged 34 to 45 years old admit to doing the same thing. Distracted drivers kill nine people and injure 1000 more every day, according to the Federal Communications Commission. Nevertheless, drivers are not the only ones. Accidents involving pedestrians using cell phones increased by a factor of ten between 2005 and 2010.
According to a study done at Korea University in Seoul, mobile phone addicts had higher amounts of GABA, which slows down neurons, making them more sensitive to distraction and diminishing their capacity to focus and self-control.
Why You Should Disconnect from Technology?
We rely on technology, so giving up your phone may be impossible. Nonetheless, for all of the reasons stated above, it is critical to minimize cell phone use. If you are not presently hooked, then taking preventative steps will only benefit you. If you are addicted, research appears to show that modifying your behavior and seeking the appropriate therapy will help.
It is critical to unplug and walk away from screens regularly. Your eyes and intellect might benefit from a rest. It will also provide you with more opportunities for in-person social engagement, which will do far more to strengthen your relationships than the sham of online social connection.
Things You Can Do to Assist You with Unplugging
It might be tough to find out how to disconnect once you’ve determined that you need to. After all, the world does not come to a halt simply because you do. Here are some ideas to help you disconnect.
- Remove your phone. That’s all there is to it. Put it in a drawer and turn it off. If necessary, place it in a box. The main thing is to go somewhere where you won’t be tempted to glance at your phone.
- Remember that you are not unique. As previously said, the world does not come to a halt simply because you do. That is, the world will continue whether you participate in it or not. You are not so essential that the world cannot function without you for a short period. Remind yourself of this every time you feel the want to pick up your phone.
- Make time to check in. You may be required if you are the CEO or someone on whom others rely to make executive decisions. If this is the case, schedule a time to check in and set a limit on checking and replying to messages. You may set aside 15 minutes after your children have gone to bed to catch up and see if anything warrants a quick reaction. Give your time to your family and friends in addition to your scheduled time. Make time for yourself as well.
Mobile phone addiction is a genuine problem. It, like any addiction, may change you and impair your capacity to operate. It can also cause relationships to deteriorate. If you find yourself continuously checking your phone, it may be time to disconnect from technology and take a break. Give your complete focus to your intellect, your family, and yourself.
