Are you constantly looking at your cell phone? Do you get desperate if you leave it at home one day? If so, you are suffering from monophobia or cell phone addiction. Discover the psychological consequences of this.
The cell phone is currently one of the most widely used technological devices in the world. In fact, there are currently more cell phones than people in the world. Seeing the number of cell phones in the world, it is not strange to think that people are suffering from what we could call the ‘cell phone disease’. Although the cell phone is necessary for most jobs many people end up suffering from so-called monophobia or cell phone addiction. This dependence on the cell phone can cause some havoc that on several occasions not even the same person can identify. So much so that, without underestimating this pathology at a more adult age, one of the most serious problems that both families and psychologists must face is to treat monophobia among young people between 18 and 35 years.
What is monophobia?
Have you ever been afraid of not having your cell phone in your hands? Monophobia is the experience of an irrational fear of being without a cell phone. The addition to the mobile affects adults and children and young people. Despite this, according to various studies, 77% of people between 18 and 24 years old and 68% of those between 25 and 34 years old suffer from this pathology.
The profile of those who face cell phone dependence is quite defined since they are usually introverted people with low self-esteem and who have significant deficiencies for relating with their peers, so they prefer to communicate through the cell phone and occupy their leisure time in this way.
Symptoms of monophobia
Thus, and to detect monophobia as soon as possible and begin the corresponding treatment, psychotherapists stress the importance of detecting the symptoms of cell phone addiction. In homophobia, the symptoms can be presented together or separately frequently.
1. Anger and aggression
The person gets angry when he or she is called to attention or is restricted from using the cell phone (with minors) even in situations where it is completely consistent to do so. This can be one of the most visible symptoms of cell phone addiction by peers.
2. Lack of concentration
In people who suffer from this cell phone disease, it is necessary to constantly repeat phrases or instructions, even those given directly, because they pay attention to their phone.
3. Abusive use of the cell phone
Abusive use of the terminal is observed, for example, in public places even when accompanied by more people, not lifting the head from the screen when walking down the street, or not finding valid alternatives to cover the leisure time. So much so that frequently the cell phone is used out of habit and not because it is required.
4. Interference with other activities
One symptom of cell phone addiction that indicates a greater dependence on the cell phone is when it interferes with the person’s daily activities. So much so that the phone and its dependence can contribute to sleep disorders such as insomnia or even social isolation.
5. Social problems
When there is a monkey with a cell phone, sometimes the person who has it ends up using it even when he is talking to his family and loved ones. So much so, that sometimes monophobia can be detrimental to the bond with other people.
6. Loss of interest in other activities
Cell phone addiction has consequences in all aspects. But one of the most visible is when the person with monophobia ends up leaving aside his hobbies and passions to be with the mobile.
Each of these symptoms of cell phone addiction shows a problem with the use of this technology. Therefore, if you ask yourself “Am I addicted to the cell phone” and you comply with one of these characteristics, it is possible that you suffer from monophobia.
Causes of cell phone addiction or monophobia
There are some risks that increase the chances that people will end up suffering from monophobia. Among the most common, we could highlight the following.
1. Using it at work
One of the most common causes for the development of cell phone addiction or monophobia is precisely to use it at work. In most of these situations, cell phone addiction shows us a problem with not being able to disconnect from our work. When this type of monophobia occurs, it is vital to stop it in time before suffering the so-called burnout syndrome.
2. Addiction to social networks
When the monophobia is in youth or children, most cases are because of an addiction to social networks. Therefore, young people and children addicted to cell phones must learn to value time and life outside the Internet. In these cases, it is vital to do outdoor activities or encourage some hobbies outside.
3. Social Anxiety
Sometimes, this cell phone disease signals a person’s social incompetence. So much so that in order not to have to face or feel this anxiety that causes him/her to socialize, he/she prefers to establish relationships through the cell phone. In these cases, the addiction to mobiles only makes these anxiety disorders even worse.
Cell phone addiction and its consequences
Monophobia can lead to certain psychological effects. Many of the consequences of cell phone addictions can lead to illness.
1. Alterations of the dream
Monophobia is closely related to the development of sleep disorders. This is because of the repercussions that can have using screens before going to sleep. That is why most times the addition to the mobile can even lead to sleep disorders. To avoid this, it is essential to develop good sleep hygiene and limit the use of cell phones before going to bed.
2. Fatigue
The sedentary nature of using a cell phone for many hours can lead to chronic fatigue. Not only because of the lack of exercise and movement but also because of the exposure to the screens. If you experience a lot of mental fatigue and you use your cell phone a lot, you may have monophobia.
3. Depression
Neglecting friendships, and not leaving the house because of cell phone addiction, can lead to a depressive disorder. The reason is not only because of the isolation that occurs autonomously but also because of the contact with fresh air and good health habits.
4. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Most times, monophobia can lead to OCD. The reason is that cell phone addiction can trigger an unhealthy habit in us with this technology.
5. A couple of problems
Being constantly connected to the cell phone can not only harm you but also your loved ones. For this reason, it is very common to present problems in relationships when you suffer from monophobia.
6. Anxiety
Various researches have shown that people who are addicted to mobiles are more likely to suffer from an anxiety disorder because of this misuse.
If you think you are suffering from cell phone addiction and its consequences, stop abusing this technology. Frequently, psychologists can be a good tool to solve these problems of monophobia.
What to do in the face of cell phone addiction or monophobia?
There are a series of guidelines or strategies that can help you leave behind the addiction to the cell phone and its consequences.
Establish limits
The best way to leave behind cell phone addiction and dependency is to establish a set of rules for its use. The key is to set some guidelines to limit its presence in dead hours, such as meals or while taking a short break to rest.
Find the balance
Frequently, we use the cell phone to replace face-to-face meetings with other people. If you think this is your case (because of simple laziness or social anxiety) you should try to balance this situation. In this way, try to interact with others at least once a day.
Slowly unhook yourself
Stopping using your cell phone when you suffer from nomophobia suddenly will not be a good solution. The key is to take breaks from the phone and your dependence on it gradually.
Find new hobbies
An ideal way to leave your cell phone behind is to step out of your comfort zone or discover new passions. For this reason, it is essential to occupy your time with other activities that encourage you to leave monophobia behind.
Consult a psychologist
Finally, if you can’t get rid of your cell phone addiction, it’s vital to see a mental health specialist. In these cases, psychologists will be the best weapon to leave monophobia behind.
The cell phone is one of the most widely used devices today. For this reason, monophobia is increasingly present in our society. Knowing how to use a cell phone is the best way to enjoy all aspects of your life.
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