When was the last time you used your phone? Answers will range from “err…five minutes ago” to “I’m using it to read your article, dummy”.
Okay, let me put it this way. When was the last time you went a whole day without your phone? A lot of people would say never.
For a lot of people, hearing their ringtone sets off the same chemical reactions in the brain as a gambler hearing the slot machine. We may not be aware, but we’re compulsive when it comes to using our mobile phones, so much that there’s now a word for it – nomophobia.
If you ever experience panic or desperation when separated from your smartphone, find it difficult to focus on conversations or work when your phone isn’t within arm’s reach, you’re constantly checking your notifications (or all of the above), I hate to break it to you but you’ve got nomophobia.
A study showed that this condition can get so bad that it reduces cognitive functions and may require checking into rehab for medical attention.
“Every time you get a notification from your phone, there’s a little elevation in dopamine that says you might have something that’s compelling, whether that’s a text message from someone you like, an email, or anything. The thing is you don’t know what it’s going to be or when you’re going to get it, and that’s what compels the brain to keep checking. It’s like the world’s smallest slot machine.” says Dr. David Greenfield, a Professor of Psychiatry.
Being addicted to your smartphone may sound ridiculous, until you realise some places have lanes dedicated to people who are “walking while texting” (not even joking). We take it to bed with us and check it again, first thing in the morning.
We need to learn how to use these devices without becoming slaves to them.
Luckily, I have the fastest answer to this:
You’re welcome!
Photo Credit: Gifrific; massdistraction via Compfight cc
