In addition to the other stated dangers of cell phone use, such as driving while talking, research is now being done on possible cell phone addiction. The thoughts behind this are that in today’s increasingly technologically connected society, we cannot afford to be disconnected not only from technology but from everyone around us.
who could be affected
commercial users
Today’s ability to conduct business from anywhere can be both a blessing and a curse. It means that you have a bit of freedom from being tied to the office, but it can also mean that you are available even when you are out of the office or on vacation.
Teenagers
Teenagers seem more susceptible to addictions in general, but the ability to stay in touch with friends at all times can be a major drawback for a teen who uses a cell phone.
None of us like to believe that we could be affected by some kind of addiction, but the fact is that addictions are not selective about who they affect, nor are they selective about how they affect us.
learn the signs
high bills – People who are addicted to their cell phones often give little thought to the cost of their incessant cell phone use. There are voice and data plans that allow intensive use; however, with addictions, logic is rarely followed. The logical thing would be to increase voice and data plans to sufficiently cover the high use of cell phones; but if someone is addicted, they will most likely deny their addiction as well. The thought process behind the denial is usually “I don’t use my phone enough to increase my plans that much!”
Eyes glued to the screen – If a person is addicted to their cell phone, chances are they are constantly checking their phone for a missed call, voicemail, or missed text message. This can not only be annoying, but can become dangerous when the person is also driving a vehicle.
Behavior – Anxiety-like behavior when parted with a cell phone has been reported to be a major sign that someone might be addicted to their cell phone. If you or someone close to you expresses high levels of anxiety or worry when you can’t make a phone call or send a text, you might consider yourself addicted.
endless use – A person who is addicted to their cell phone will find it difficult to give it up, in a variety of different situations. How often do you see someone talking loudly on a cell phone while in a restaurant? Or sitting in a doctor’s waiting room while talking on her cell phone? The worst reported cases have been people even talking on their cell phone while using a public restroom!
The addiction to a cell phone can affect personal relationships, with partners and even children who believe that they are not as important as their cell phone; Even job performance can be dramatically affected by cell phone use if the addicted person is constantly checking voicemail or sending text messages.
Treatment
As is the case with many addictions and behavioral disorders, antidepressants and anxiety medications can often do a great job of relieving cell phone dependency.
If your job requires you to have the use of a cell phone, you may find it hard to get away from it after hours; however, with a little persistence and determination you will find that this is possible. Try to separate cell phone use for business reasons from the rest of your life.