How often do you go somewhere without your phone? And how do you feel when you go somewhere without a signal? Let’s be honest, the majority of us would admit that going without our beloved devices within reach causes a lot of stress. And the statistics show it: studies show that nomophobiathe fear of finding ourselves without our digital devices, impacts more than 90% from U.S!
But why have our smartphones become our constant companions? Are our devices and apps to blame for causing us to spend more time online? Here’s how our digital companions have been designed to keep us hooked in more ways than we realize — and what kinds of implications an unhealthy attachment to your devices may ultimately even have on your privacy and security.
Why am I addicted?
1. Convenience
There is around seven billion smartphones worldwide, representing approximately 85% of the planet’s 8 billion inhabitants. And when you think about the different functions a smartphone can perform, it’s no surprise that they’re so popular. With the abundance of apps on the market, this palm-sized device can simplify the stress of your daily life, eliminate boredom, and keep you connected. You can even experience a the whole romantic relationship from your phone using AI!
Mobile games allow you to entertain yourself on long train journeys and quiet nights, fighting bad guys, solving puzzles and scoring points. Fitness apps, in turn, can help you achieve your #newyearnewme goals. They can track your progress, discover new workouts, and gain motivation on days when going out for a run doesn’t seem so appealing (and the chocolate cupboard does).
The list is truly endless… And that’s part of the problem. Why wouldn’t we want to use these empowering tools to get in better shape, build stronger connections, and make those long, arduous journeys more enjoyable?
But what we may not realize is that these apps have specific features designed to keep us coming back for more. The average person spending more three hours on their smartphone every dayUsing our app can go beyond what is actually beneficial.
2. Endless streams of content
What might have started as a “quick check” to see what’s happening in your digital sphere can lead you to disappear down a content rabbit hole. Other engaging news, posts, and videos automatically appear as you scroll to keep you interested. Without the pause of waiting to load more, you can easily lose track of time.
And, with unique algorithms ensuring that what you see is similar to posts and content you’ve already interacted with, it’s no wonder you can’t turn away – even if it’s the seventh reel of “dogs acting stupid” you have. seen that day. With TikTok, the proof is in: the average person spends 90 minutes per day on the app!
3. Instant gratification
You probably know that rush of joy you feel when something you’ve shared online receives multiple likes and comments from your followers. And that feeling then pushes you to want more. This social validation triggers the reward system in the brain, a complex network that reinforces certain behaviors by releasing dopamine (the pleasure hormone).
You also get this dopamine release from other things like eating chocolate or shopping, which is why you might end up eating a whole bag of treats or sneaking into your overdraft (if that’s you, find out how stay safe while shopping online here). When you can get the same feeling on your device without breaking the bank or adopting a new diet, why wouldn’t you?
4. Constant notifications
Haven’t used your running tracker in a while? Don’t worry, your app will notify you of your competitor’s most recent time during their morning run. When this notification appears on your device, you will feel compelled to explore it further (surely they couldn’t have run that fast). And then, to avoid FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), you’ll come back to the app later to track your own run and compare.
While notifications can – as in this case – lead to healthy habits to some extent, in other cases, like when a notification pops up that your friend posted a new Instagram Story, it can bring you back in this dopamine feedback loop of wasting hours scrolling. content.
5. Escape
Whether it’s binge-watching the latest series or getting lost in photos of your favorite vacation destination, there’s no denying that smart devices offer an exciting portal to escape everyday stress. This relief from any negative feelings brought on by the average day-to-day stimulates an additional release of dopamine (and the joy that accompanies it), which then reinforces the deeper immersion into your great escape.
While this may be beneficial, or even necessary, for some people to unplug and de-stress, when you get to a stage where you miss the excitements of real life, have difficulty concentrating, and become less productive, it Maybe it’s time to rethink these movie marathons.
The dangers of nomophobia
Now you understand a little better why you’re so attached to your devices, but what impact could this have on your overall health and well-being?
1. Lack of quality sleep
In addition to the anxiety and stress you may feel when you are “disconnected”, and which can impact the quality of your sleep anyway, the blue light emitted by your device can seriously affect your sleep production. melatonin, the hormone responsible for making you fall asleep. If you stay up late, you risk missing out on the high-quality rest you need – vital for a healthy immune system, cognitive functions and, let’s be honest, overall good mood.
2. Social isolation
Ironically, the many social media apps on our phones can actually distance us from our real-life (IRL) relationships. Think about it, when you go out to lunch with your friend, do you have your phone on the table in front of you? And do you look at it every minute or so to check notifications?
This may mean you’re not fully engaging in your lunch date and missing crucial body language cues that would allow you to strengthen and connect more. Your friend who is going through a tough time at work, crying over their ex, or just wants to make up for it, may not be as impressed with the lack of attention you’re giving them. It’s hard to balance your online and offline social spheres, especially when those notifications keep buzzing.
3. Reduced concentration time
A constant stream of notifications, instant gratification and the fast-paced nature of devices mean our attention span suffers. Why would we read a two-page document when we can just watch a 20-second video summary? Smartphones and devices are changing the way we consume information, online and offline. This can potentially lead to decreased productivity at work or in real-world educational institutions.
So, increased anxiety, disrupted sleep, decreased concentration…that doesn’t sound positive. But when your device can deliver a world of escapism, education, entertainment and more in the palm of your hand, it’s all about finding the balance.
What about your privacy and security?
Let’s not forget: it’s not a stretch to think that an unhealthy attachment to your technology can also end up causes you to neglect your personal security and privacyto the point that you can engage in downright risky online behavior.
For starters, if you’re tired and have trouble concentrating, chances are you won’t be able to. Think before you click when a convincing but malicious message arrives in your inbox. You might also lose your guard in other situations, such as when using free Wi-Fi networks without the right precautions, or you may be more prone to reuse your passwords on many of your online accounts. It is the same thing for download a summary application which promises free access to the latest hot TV show. And the list could go on…
Additionally, children and adolescents are even more vulnerable to the perils of the online world. If you’re a parent, you may want to make sure your own behavior reflects healthy technology use. In addition talk to your children about healthy digital habits, you can use ESET Parental Control to help you set limits that allow your children to make the most of their connectivity in a safe and controlled manner.
To help protect all family members, ESET mobile security is built on over 30 years of experience and research to ensure your devices and your online world are protected, wherever you go, including when the pull of the online world is a little too strong to resist.