Coping with Anxiety
There are many different forms of anxiety which includes social anxiety, generalized anxiety (GAD) and panic disorders. Symptoms of anxiety often include excessive fear, worry and concern over the activities of daily living. Those coping with anxiety may experience problems sleeping, excessive rumination, muscle aches and stress, along with general malaise and difficulty sleeping. Some people turn to screen use as a way to escape or avoid uncomfortable feelings.
Tech-based Behavioral Addictions
As screen time increases, so too does the possibility of addiction. Digital media addiction goes by many different terms, including Internet addiction, social media addiction, screen addiction, electronics addiction, internet video game addiction, and more. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently included Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD/IGA) as a condition to describe the effects associated with excessive Internet gaming use. Excessive digital use has been linked to a variety of problems in social, financial, relational, and academic areas. Additional symptoms may include feelings of loneliness, aggression, despair and depression.
Intensifying Symptoms of Anxiety
While screen use may temporarily lift anxious feelings, it may also bring concern as frequent excessive use may lead to an intensity of anxiety in some people. Studies suggest that those with anxiety may feel as if they need to respond to instant messaging or text messages immediately.
Treatment for Internet Addiction, Video Game Addiction and Co-morbid Anxiety
Cognitive behavioral therapy may improve symptoms of anxiety when paired with internet gaming treatment. Studies show that help for screen addiction involves pairing anxiety treatment with less Internet, screen time and video game use.
If you or someone you care about needs treatment for anxiety and digital distractions, reach out to a member of our team.
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