Why you should hang up on your cellphone addiction

Whether we’re texting, calling, emailing, scrolling, or playing games almost 50% of Americans are addicted to their cellphones.

On average, people check their phones every 12 minutes throughout the day.

Almost 44% of Americans say being away from their phone gives them anxiety and two-thirds of children spend four hours or more a day on smartphones.

A study done at San Diego State University found that prolonged screentime increases depression and suicide-related thoughts, especially in young girls.

“So, things like anxiety, depression, all our significant predictors of problem maximum smartphone use,” said Alex J. Holt, assistant professor of Psychology at the University of Cincinnati.

So how can we hang up on this addiction and dial into our mental health?

A few tips to help you detach from your device: first, consider setting designated tech-free times. For example, make mealtimes a tech-free zone.

Try digital detox periods. Taking a break from screens for a day, a weekend, or even a week can significantly boost your mental health.

Implementing screen time limits can also help. Many devices offer built-in tools to track and limit the amount of time you spend on specific apps.

Reconnect with hobbies and interests.

“So, when people are more prone to being bored, they’re going to be more likely to use their smartphone to address their uncertainty,” said Holt.

And consider downgrading your phone. You could simply replace your smartphone with a phone that doesn’t support apps so you can stay in the present.

Also, consider creating tech-free zones in your home. Designate certain areas, like bedrooms or the dining room, as off-limits for devices. Removing devices from these spaces can improve sleep quality and encourage more meaningful interactions with those around you.