Technology Mis/Overuse

Most of us interact with technology regularly in our daily lives in ways that are helpful or allow us to decompress. However, it's easy to slowly build dependence on our phones, computers, and consoles for emotional regulation, self-soothing, or feelings of accomplishment and mastery. Between the internet, social media, video games, and most recently AI, technology is constantly competing for our attention, and we may end up choosing it over our goals, responsibilities, or relationships.

We may not be able to fully unplug in the modern world, but if your technology use is negatively affecting your mood, relationships, or productivity, you may benefit from mental health treatment (i.e. talk therapy, medication, or a combination of both). 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help you build skills to effectively self-regulate your technology use, as well as address underlying psychological vulnerabilities that make us susceptible to over-reliance on technology in the first place. 

Some signs of technology use that could warrant seeking support may include:

• spending more time interacting with technology than wanted or intended

• increased conflict in relationships as a result of technology use

• exclusion of other activities due to feeling a "need" to engage with technology

• distress related to the "fear of missing out" on what's happening online

• difficulty connecting with people "IRL"

These are just a few examples and unhealthy technology use can show up differently for each of us. If you'd like to discuss whether working together to change your relationship with technology could help, reach out today to request a free 15-minute phone consultation!