Technology Addiction!

I would love your thoughts on an alarming trend that I'm observing in my practice and research is revealing similar findings.

Half of all teens admit to "feeling addicted to their devices," in a poll by Common Sense Media. The American Academy of Pediatrics is reporting depression, anxiety, & suicidal thoughts are increasing in this same age group as well.

When I enter an exam room, I am no longer shocked by the struggle I encounter trying to get the patients' and/or caregivers' attention from electronic devices. Our office has tried some techniques without much change... This isn't just a matter of being "rude." It seems to be an actual "addiction."

This doesn't only happen in the office... it happens when I come home to a quiet house with 3 children...at first I'm grateful, then I become suspicious. Oftentimes when I ask one of my kids a question while they have their phone, they appear to be in a trance.

At times I can be just as guilty...that feeling of being 'lost' when I forget my phone or scrolling aimlessly while missing out on something that I retrospectively realize I would have rather done.

Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) is an actual diagnosis. It is more than intermittently aimlessly scrolling on your device. IAD is technology usage that interferes with daily life and has negative physical and mental health consequences. It's effects are most prominent on 12-29 year olds---not coincidentally the age group with the highest internet usage.

Many in Silicon Valley are openly discussing this epidemic. It doesn't appear that the problem is caused by "technology illiterate" parents as Melinda Gates freely admits, "I spent my career in technology. I wasn't prepared for its effect on my kids." Some of the original creators of these devices are demanding changes in the products they helped produce because of the devices' addictive qualities and negative health impacts especially on children.

There are solutions, but recognizing it in ourselves and our children is the first step. Is anyone else encountering these difficulties?

All the best,

Shannon Smith, M.D.

Photo Credit: FB stock photo