Intervening with "Nomophobia"

Nomophobia is the "fear of being without access to a working smart (cell) phone." Experts question whether nomophobia is a real addiction, but they have decided upon four symptoms of it: experiencing panic over losing your phone; obsessively checking for missed calls, emails, and texts; using your phone in inappropriate places like the bathroom or church; and missing out on opportunities for face-to-face interactions. Want to cut back on digital dependency? Start with awareness. Is it a problem you want to change? If so, experiment with separating yourself from your phone when participating in other activities. Get an accountability partner (who also wants to cut back) and tackle a mutual goal. Use a timing device to interrupt mindless phone surfing. More tips and tricks can be found by searching "tips on cutting back smartphone use."

Source: archives.drugabuse.gov [search "nomophobia"]

Keith Stein | 11/24/2021

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