The emergence of the internet and the daily use of smartphones, tablets, and personal computers has made maintaining a healthy balance with technology difficult. Staying connected on social media, participating in video calls at work, and responding to emails can make you feel like you need to constantly be “plugged in” to the internet. Not being connected to technology may make us feel as though we’re missing out on pertinent information. But research shows that excessively using the internet and internet-enabled devices can lead to an addiction to technology.
Technology addiction can cause:
Scientific research also shows that being addicted to technology can also affect our brain and cognitive health. The more we use technology, the more neurological changes take place in the brain. Studies show that these changes can be so substantial that technology addiction can be just as harmful as substance abuse addiction.
Technology addiction is a pattern of behavior characterized by a dependency on the internet and technology-enabled devices. Even though the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) doesn’t list technology addiction as a mental health disorder, people addicted to technology demonstrate an inability to control, regulate, or limit their use of the internet and technology, which is characteristic of behavioral addiction.
Like other behavioral addictions, technology addiction can have a negative impact on our academic performance, career, family, and social life. Being addicted to technology can cause us to:
Other signs of technology addiction can include:
Technology addiction can vary widely. Most people with an addiction to technology find the content consumed on the internet or via technology to be mood-enhancing or stimulating. This is what causes some of the changes in the brain’s reward center.
Some of the most common examples of technology addiction include:
These addictions can range from moderate to severe. But all levels of technology addiction can impact the brain.
Even though using technology isn’t the same as using drugs or alcohol, the brain processes both addictions the same way. Winning a level of a video game, getting “likes” on a picture, and gambling online releases dopamine, a feel-good chemical in the brain, just like drinking alcohol or using drugs does. Over time, we begin to crave this dopamine release, which compels us to use technology and internet-enabled devices even more. Unfortunately, this tricks the brain into thinking it doesn’t need to create and release dopamine naturally, which disrupts the brain’s delicate chemical balance.
Without enough dopamine, we tend to feel down, have trouble concentrating, and struggle to stay motivated. Naturally, we seek another dopamine release. The brain, which now identifies technology as a reliable way to release dopamine, signals us to spend even more time on the internet, increasing our risk of an internet addiction disorder.
Excessive use of the internet, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and video game consoles can also impact our minds by:
Technology is a major part of today’s world. Sadly, so is addiction. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use, addiction, or other mental health challenges, our brain science-based treatment programs can help. Let us help you regain control. Contact us today to learn more.
Because mental health and addiction concerns are so often interconnected, we utilize research-based approaches with evidence-based outcomes that promote overall healing and recovery.
This low-impact magnetic stimulation activates neurons inside the brain, relieving symptoms associated with depression and anxiety.
Using brain scanning and readings, we create a map of our patients’ brains, helping us develop more targeted and effective treatments.
This process assists patients in visualizing their own brain functionality through continuous EEG readings.
We use carefully monitored doses of Spravato to help patients struggling with complex mental health disorders, including severe depression.
Patients use this practice to help reframe intrusive or negative thought patterns and develop coping techniques for long-term recovery.
This practice helps patients learn to regulate emotions, communicate more effectively, and process their own thoughts and feelings..
Licensed and trained therapists guide patients through this technique for managing stress and anxiety on an ongoing basis.
Patients experience one-on-one therapy sessions with a licensed therapist to provide a safe and private place to recover and heal.
Patients can practice the skills and techniques they have learned in treatment with others in a safe, therapist-guided space.
5940 E. Copper Hill Dr. Ste B & E, Prescott Valley, AZ. 86314
928-583-7799
We exercise progressive, leading brain science in our treatment approach for patients in our community and across the country who are struggling with mental health and addiction challenges.
We exercise progressive, leading brain science in our treatment approach for patients in the Prescott Valley community and across the country who are struggling with mental health and addiction challenges.
© 2024 StoneRidge Centers – Prescott Valley. All Rights Reserved.