Learn how to have a healthy relationship with technology at CTRL Care.
Technology use can be problematic for some teens. Problematic technology use may include excessive social media use, phone snooping, sending sexually explicit pictures, and other digital behaviors. Using technology excessively is often a symptom of a deeper issue, such as anxiety or depression.
CTRLCare Behavioral Health is a mental health treatment center in Princeton, NJ. Contact us today to learn more about our adolescent mental health treatment programs in New Jersey and other programs we offer.
Problematic technology use can be defined as using the internet, video games, and other technology more than you intended to.
If you suspect that your teen has a problem with their tech habits, it’s essential to talk about it with them. The first step is identifying why they’re behaving this way—is it because they want attention? Are they bored? Do they feel like their peers are doing something better or cooler than them? If possible, try not to make any accusations until you’ve had some time alone with your child so you can get their side of the story (and don’t forget about confidentiality). Once these issues have been addressed, work together on finding solutions: maybe agreeing on ground rules for when each person gets access to their phone, maybe adding some “tech breaks” into daily schedules, maybe even seeking treatment at a center like ours.
If you’re struggling with technology use, it’s possible that the urge to use it excessively is due to an underlying issue. Some of the most common causes of excessive technology use include anxiety or depression. These disorders can cause a desire to avoid real-world interactions and situations and instead retreat to online ones. Technology can be used as a way to avoid dealing with these issues by enabling constant access to social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram.
If you feel this resonates with you, the staff at CTRLCare Behavioral Health has extensive experience providing effective treatment for patients who have struggled with problematic technology use in the past and are ready to help, you start living a healthier life now.
We work with most major insurance plans that offer out-of-network benefits. We offer a free verification process so you know your options when seeking mental health treatment in Princeton. Our team will let you know what works best for your individual needs.
A person’s technology use can become problematic when it interferes with their daily life, so much so that it is disruptive and affects their ability to function normally in social situations. When you are using your phone or computer excessively, the following issues may arise:
Augmented reality (AR) is a way of superimposing digital information on the real world. It’s used in many applications, from smartphones to video games and augmented reality glasses. AR combines data with real-world images and places, resulting in a composite image that seems like it is part of the user’s environment.
What makes AR so addictive? For one thing, it gives you access to all your favorite things wherever you are—just by using your phone or other devices. And while most people use it responsibly to get directions or find local businesses, some people can become addicted to using this technology just because it feels good.
Here are some warning signs that someone may have an addiction:
Online shopping addiction is different from other types of addiction in that it does not involve the use of substances or engaging in activities that are socially unacceptable or illegal. This makes it difficult for many people to recognize or admit they have a problem until their credit cards become maxed out and their bills go unpaid, or perhaps until they find themselves unable to pay rent due to having spent all their money.
The first step to treating your problematic smartphone use is to recognize the behaviors you’re engaging in. Do you check your phone frequently, even when something else is occupying your attention? Are you constantly checking it for new messages or notifications, even when they aren’t related to work or school? Do you use your phone in inappropriate places (like at church or on dates), often with other people nearby? Do you find yourself using your phone while driving because it feels more urgent than driving safely?
If so, this might be a sign that problematic technology use has become a problem for you—and that there are steps that can help. Contact CTRLCare for information on how to begin your journey.
Compulsive technology use, also referred to as Internet addiction disorder and gaming addiction is a pattern of problematic use of the internet and online social media sites.
It’s a real illness that can affect your relationships with others and your ability to function in daily life.
Compulsive technology use is often associated with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety disorders. In teens, it may be linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
If you’re a parent of a gamer, or if you suspect that one of your friends is struggling with an addiction to online gaming or gambling, it’s important to be able to spot the signs. A general rule of thumb is if someone can’t stop playing games even when they know they should be doing something else, like hanging out with family or friends or going to work, then they may have a problem. It’s also helpful to keep an eye out for other signs like increased isolation and mood swings—the latter two are especially common with people who use drugs or alcohol excessively.
If you’ve decided that your child has developed an addiction and needs help overcoming it before it gets worse, there are several treatment options available:
Virtual reality is a computer-simulated environment that can be experienced using a headset and controllers. In virtual reality, you are able to interact with objects in the same way that you would in the real world.
However, virtual reality can be an effective tool for pain management and therapy for people who are recovering from injuries or illnesses. For example, those who have experienced trauma may benefit from virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET), which uses immersive technology to help patients confront their fears associated with past events by creating scenarios in which they can safely experience triggers without being physically harmed.
Learn more about our technology addiction treatment program and how it can help you or a loved one overcome mental health and technology wellness challenges.
To discuss our programs in more detail, contact our CTRLCare Wellness Team.
There are many treatment options for problematic technology use disorders. Treatment can be conducted in a variety of settings, including outpatient programs and inpatient facilities. Treatment options include:
The key takeaway here is that technology use can be problematic for some teens. Before you get too concerned, though, it’s important to remember that this is just one type of behavioral issue that could affect your child. It’s also good to remember what we discussed earlier about how certain types of technology might be more addictive than others. In the end, if you suspect your teen may have a problem with their technology use, then it’s best to seek professional help from an addiction counselor or therapist who can assess whether there’s really something wrong here and offer solutions based on their findings.
Focused on evidence-based therapies and integrated wellness programs, the unique, hybrid approach at CTRLCare Behavioral Health is designed to meet the needs and goals of the individual. For personalized treatment that addresses the mind, body, and spirit, contact CTRLCare Behavioral Health today.
