One of the most prevalent addictions among teens and adults alike is an addiction to screens—whether phones, tablets, computers, or gaming, and everything in between. This addiction is also called a screen dependency disorder and falls under the umbrella of behavioral, or process, addictions. Screen addiction treatment for young women at The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® offers evidence-based therapies to help break the dependency.
If you want to learn how to stop screen addiction, use this form or this phone number 828.518.6941 to contact The Willows today. Our all-female staff offers specific treatments designed specifically for young women and provided in a safe environment where they can be themselves as they heal.
What Is Screen Addiction?
Screen addiction, also known as screen dependency disorder, is a behavioral addiction that involves excessive and compulsive use of screens such as phones, tablets, computers, and gaming devices. It is often referred to as a process addiction because it does not involve substance abuse but rather an addictive behavior or activity.
This addiction can affect individuals of all ages but has become particularly prevalent among teenagers and young adults. It is characterized by a strong urge to constantly check and use screens, leading to negative consequences in various aspects of life.
Signs of Screen Addiction
If you have concerns about a young person in your life, there are signs you can look for to confirm those thoughts and lead you to seek advice, support, and intervention from professionals. Below are some warning signs of a screen addiction:
- Withdrawal when screens are unavailable
- Use of screens as a way to feel better or mask mental health issues
- Growing tolerance of screens for multiple hours per day
- Inability to reduce screen time despite wanting to
- Falling away from other interests
- Hiding or lying about screen time
Continuation of behavior despite negative fallout, e.g., inability to focus on school or work, crumbling relationships, etc.
Many of these signs are similar to the symptoms of a substance use disorder. Screen dependency often requires professional help, just as other addictions do.
Negative Effects of Screen Addiction
There are many negative physical and psychological effects of screen addiction:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sleep disturbance
- Poor emotional regulation
- Distractibility
- Decrease of in-person socializing
- Loss of curiosity
- Poor attention span
- Argumentativeness
It’s important to note that screen addiction can also exacerbate underlying mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In some cases, excessive screen use may be used as a coping mechanism for these issues, leading to a harmful cycle.
How to Break a Screen Addiction
If you want screen addiction help, below are some ways you can limit your screen time or that of your family:
- Turn off notifications that pull attention, in some cases, constantly.
- Cancel all your social media platforms or all but one.
- Keep track of your usage by checking the data stored in your smartphone and setting time limits on all electronics.
- Celebrate one day a week completely screen-free—for you and the whole family.
- Consider banning screens during a family vacation.
- Set boundaries on when or where tech is used in your home. Maybe no screens at meals or none in the bedroom.
- Do something you look forward to each evening when you unplug your screens, whether that is reading, having a goodnight talk with a friend or spouse, meditating, or listening to a book or music.
Screen addiction can be very difficult to break because, to some extent, screens are a necessary part of our lives, but it is possible, and help is available. Professional treatment centers like The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® offer specialized programs tailored to young women with screen dependency disorder. These programs use evidence-based approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindful awareness practices, to help individuals learn healthy coping mechanisms and lifestyle changes.
Call The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® Today to Heal from Screen Addiction
Don’t let screen addiction control your life or the life of a loved one. Seeking professional help is the first step towards breaking this harmful dependency and regaining control over your well-being. Contact The Willows at Red Oak Recovery® online or call 828.518.6941 for more information on our specialized treatment programs for young women struggling with screen addiction. We provide a supportive environment for healing and growth.
