Orlando Screen Addiction Counselor

On average, an American looks at their phone 205 times daily, devoting roughly one-quarter of their awake hours to this social media addiction and addictive device due to excessive screen time that affects daily life in the United States. In the past five years alone, the time spent on screens has surged by at least 30%, and the rampant growth of digital media along with its impact on our lives can arguably be seen as the hallmark of the 21st century, a phenomenon that some may argue should be addressed in the context of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

Opposing screens, digital media, and artificial intelligence out of spite is futile. While these tools, including tablets and cell phones, the TV, keep us connected, informed, and engaged, they also come at the cost of our attention being steadily eroded. Technology use by firms that pour billions into creating sophisticated algorithms designed to capture our focus often ignores the immediate and lasting impacts on our health and wellbeing. This is especially concerning for young individuals with ADHD, who struggle with impulsivity, altered reward processing, time management, and boredom.

Several states are currently implementing restrictions on phone usage in educational settings, and U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has proposed the introduction of warning labels for social media platforms, indicating that measures for managing digital media and social media use, particularly for those with mental health issues and substance use at Total Life Counseling Center and with the guidance of a mental health counselor, including an effective treatment digital detox, are beginning to form. In light of this, here are actions you can take to reclaim control over your digital media habits.

In what ways do screens impact us?

Constant Interruption

The brain’s information-foraging tendencies are leveraged by technology. Our evolution has wired us to search for and appreciate information as it plays a vital role in our survival. However, filtering excessive information is not always straightforward. Consequently, it becomes challenging to disregard the endless pings, dings, and incessant notifications invading our minds.

The Illusion of Multitasking

Our brains are only capable of concentrating on a single task at any moment; however, many of us, lured by our gadgets, believe we can seamlessly switch between various tasks. This shifting between tasks is detrimental not only to productivity but also to cognitive performance. It reduces our attention span, which some studies indicate has fallen from two and a half minutes in 2004 to roughly 47 seconds today.

Dislike for Delays

The rapid pace of today’s apps, websites, and games has made us intolerant of delays. Have you ever found yourself feeling restless if a page takes as long as 10 seconds to load? We crave constant and immediate stimulation. This aversion to delaying gratification poses issues—having patience and the capability to endure discomfort are vital for functioning healthily.

Fear of Missing Out and Anxiety

The overwhelming urge to remain connected to technology due to fear of missing out (FOMO) creates anxiety, which keeps us habitually attached to our devices and perpetuates a feedback loop.

Reclaim Your Power: A Guide to Disconnecting

What are the signs and symptoms of screen addiction?

Signs and symptoms of screen addiction include excessive screen time, neglecting responsibilities, social withdrawal, irritability when screen time is interrupted, and physical symptoms like headaches or eye strain. These symptoms are often similar to symptoms of mental health conditions. Seek help from an Orlando screen addiction counselor if experiencing these signs.

Internet Addiction Treatment Florida Teens Trust: A Closer Look

Internet addiction is a growing concern among teenagers and young adults in Florida, particularly in Orlando. The internet offers a vast array of content and activities that can lead to excessive screen time and dependency. Recognizing the need for intervention, internet addiction treatment programs that Florida parents can trust have been developed to help teens and young adults regain control over their online habits in a safe environment.

Check In with Yourself

Consider the following questions and respond honestly to assess your position regarding your digital media habits:

1. “Is my usage of a smartphone an issue for me? If it is, what are the specific ways?”
2. “Am I using my smartphone, computer, or device more than I desire?”
3. “Do I let notifications from my smartphone, computer, or other devices distract me too much?”
4. “Am I habitually checking my smartphone even when it’s not necessary?”
5. “Do I find it difficult to refrain from checking my smartphone while engaging in various activities like working, studying, and spending time with others, all of which contribute to a balanced lifestyle and overall wellness?”
6. “Do I find it difficult to refrain from checking my smartphone while engaging in various activities like working, studying, and spending time with others, all of which contribute to a balanced lifestyle and overall wellness?”
7. “Do I feel dissatisfied with my presence on social media?”
8. “Do I engage actively or passively on social media?”
9. “Could it be that I am relying on social media in place of genuine life experiences?”
10. “Am I left feeling inadequate or disappointed about my life because of social media?”