How addicted are we to our phones? Some of us are going to rehab
In 2017, several individuals concerned about their use of technology and the internet came together to form Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous (ITAA), a global fellowship inspired by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).
Jenny is one of their members. At the height of his phone addiction, he couldn’t sleep for days. His addiction was so strong he could barely eat or drink.
“I would have lost so much of my life,” explains the 30-year-old, who did not want the BBC to use his real name.
He didn’t care what appeared on his screen (movie, TV series, short video) as long as he was watching something.
“I didn’t realize how addicted I was until I withdrew and had to ask my friends and family to keep my devices locked away,” Jenny recalls.
“It was so bad I thought I was going to die if I didn’t watch something.”
In case of a relapse, he preferred to borrow a laptop or smartphone from his family or “borrow it without permission.”
But then guilt and shame will kick in and he/she will want to post more content to block out the emotions.
After years of “looking for help” he came across the ITAA and followed their 12 steps. He is currently in recovery and has not streamed or watched anything for five years.
Jenny says she feels comfortable having a simple phone and accessing the internet for her work. “I’m in control now,” he says.
Another ITAA member, Tom, says his addiction has led him to dark places. He could lose entire months of his life to his phone and other screens.
“I would binge drink for 10 hours straight, listening to music, watching something on YouTube, scrolling through social media, and playing video games all at the same time.
“Then I go for a two-hour walk and eat again. This can go on for months.”
Tom’s addiction was so strong that it caused him to lose his job and his sense of purpose in life.
“I became suicidal,” he says.
“I’m starting to really enjoy life again. I’m playing a lot of pickleball, going outside and going to the gym.”
