When was the last time you went without looking at an electronic screen for a few hours? Unless you printed this article out, which also uses technology, you’re looking at a screen right now.
In an era where technology is integrated into countless aspects of daily life, concerns about screen time are on the rise. From online grade-school assignments to ordering off an electronic menu at a restaurant, it can sometimes feel impossible to avoid electronic screens for extended periods of time.
Research has shown that integrating anything at this scale into human daily life could lead to overuse and addiction. So what does all this screentime mean for our long-term mental and physical health?
We talked to Kyle Faust, PhD, a clinical psychologist and director of the new Digital Addiction and Gambling Treatment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital. The program focuses on developing and providing effective treatments for technology overuse and bridge the gap between innovation and well-being.
The Creation of Innovative Treatments
One of the key challenges of achieving this, however, is the lack of formal diagnosis methods for many types of technology-related addictions in the United States.
As of now, the American Psychiatric Association's DSM-5-TR, which is used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental disorders, only recognizes internet gaming disorder as a condition for further study, and does not have formal diagnostic criteria for many other forms of technology addiction, including social media or streaming services, such as Netflix.
At the Digital Addiction and Gambling Treatment Program, launched this summer, Faust is aiming to develop evidence-based treatments for conditions such as gaming disorder.
“Gaming disorder was included in the ICD-11, but other addictive uses of digital technology, like social media and streaming addictions, still lack proper categorization,” Faust states. “I'm hoping we'll eventually be able to research more treatments to detail the criteria for these diagnoses. The field is really in need of additional evidence-based approaches.”
“I'm hoping we'll eventually be able to research more treatments to detail the criteria for these diagnoses. The field is really in need of additional evidence-based approaches."
- Kyle Faust, PhD
While difficulties with diagnoses persist, researchers at MGH and all around the world are working to create innovative treatments for these new forms of digital addiction.
“Countries like South Korea and China have spent huge amounts of money funding research and addressing the problem of gaming disorder,” Faust says.
In the U.S., a recent warning from the U.S. Surgeon General about the potential harms of social media has offered hope for increased awareness and funding into the field.
The MGH program developed by Dr. Faust and team offers an individualized approach to treatment, and uses cognitive behavioral therapy individually tailored to help patients overcome their addictions.
The Bright Side of Technology
While technology addiction is a growing concern, digital platforms and tools also present powerful benefits that can support mental health, provide social connection, and enhance learning and personal development.
Dr. Faust highlights the potential of these tools to deliver positive mental health outcomes, especially when used thoughtfully and in moderation.
"Technology can play a supportive role in mental health," Faust explains. "In the right context, digital platforms can foster community and social connections, which are essential for mental well-being. This can be especially meaningful for people who may feel isolated, providing them with accessible ways to connect with others, share experiences, and seek support."
So, while technology has the potential to create issues with mental health, it also offers promising avenues for support, connection, and growth. Faust is working to identify practices to help people harness the benefits of digital devices while keeping the risks in check.
Advice for Moderating Technology Use
For individuals struggling with technology use, Faust offers practical advice: “Turning off notifications and nudges on smartphones, setting strict time limits, or even using older flip phones without apps or internet connections can provide some help, although therapeutic treatment is often necessary for technology users experiencing greater struggles.”
While only a small percentage of the population is clinically addicted to gaming or social media, many more individuals experience negative impacts from excessive technology use.
“It could be a good idea to seek support in moderating your technology use, even if you don't think you're addicted,” he suggests. “Ultimately it’s important to find balance in your life rather than letting digital technology become all-consuming.”
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