Tech Addiction

Tech Addiction

Made by Dinis Franco, Rúben Duarte

What Is Tech Addiction?

Tech addiction (also called digital addiction and internet addicition) means using phones, computers or the internet so much that it starts hurting your life, like your sleep, mood, work or relationships

It can include being on:

• Social media (like TikTok, Instagram)
• Video games
• YouTube or streaming
• Online shopping or gambling
• Constant texting or scrolling

Why It Happens

Here’s why people get addicted to technology:

• Brain chemicals: When you get likes or wins in a game, your brain releases dopamine, a “feel-good” chemical. You want more, so you keep scrolling or playing.
• App design: Social media and games are made to keep you hooked — with notifications, rewards, and never-ending feeds.
• Stress and boredom: People often use tech to escape problems or feelings.
• Easy access: Phones are everywhere — in school, work, and even at bedtime.
• Young age: Kids and teens are more likely to get addicted because their brains are still growing.

Signs You Might Be Addicted

• Using your phone or computer more than you plan to
• Feel anxious, angry, or bored when you can’t use it
• Stay up late scrolling or gaming instead of sleeping
• Ignore school, work, or people around you
• Think about your phone all the time
• Feel empty or lonely without your device

How It Affects You

Mental health:

• More stress, sadness, or anxiety
• Feeling lonely or comparing yourself to others online

Body health:

• Eye strain and headaches
• Back or neck pain
• Trouble sleeping
• Less exercise and weight gain

School/work:

• Harder to focus or remember things
• Lower grades or performance
• Arguing with family about screen time

Some Facts

• About 1 in 3 people show signs of internet or phone addiction.

• Teens often spend 6–8 hours a day on screens.

• The younger you start heavy tech use, the harder it can be to control later.

How to Control or Treat It

• Set screen time limits

• No screens before bed — at least 30–60 minutes before sleep

• Turn off unnecessary notifications

• Take “tech breaks” (walk, read, talk to someone)

• Ask for help if you can’t control it — talk to a counselor or therapist

Why It Matters

Technology is amazing, it helps us learn, connect, and work. But too much of it can harm your brain, mood, and body, especially for kids and teens. Learning healthy tech habits early can protect your mental health and help you focus better.

links

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10779052/https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more/what-is-technology-addiction https://www.nm.org/conditions-and-care-areas/behavioral-health/technology-overuse-and-addiction?