Smartphones have become a kind of extension of ourselves, always within reach from the moment we wake up until we go to bed. For some individuals, the thought of being without their devices can evoke fear and trigger anxiety, leading to psychological reactions such as agitation, trembling and changes in breathing.
This constant and often irrational fear indicates a serious dependence and may signal a behavioural disorder that is increasingly prevalent in society. This phenomenon is now recognised with a specific term: nomophobia. The term “nomophobia” is derived from the phrase “no-mobile-phone-phobia.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as the “fear or worry at the idea of being without your mobile phone or unable to use it”.
Research by SecurEnvoy has revealed that since 2012, 66% of the global population has experienced this disorder, with 77% of those affected being young adults. These figures are concerning, and it is highly likely that cases of digital compulsion will continue to rise as technology advances – especially with smartphones, since they serve as our primary means of communication and provide countless essential conveniences.
While technology offers numerous advantages, its misuse can significantly impact our personal relationships and even society’s structure. For example, social media can create a virtual world – a metaverse – that detracts from our ability to manage our own lives. This environment can foster compulsive behaviours, such as constantly checking notifications, worrying about battery levels or internet connectivity, fearing the loss of the device, and the anxiety of missing important events or information while offline.
These habits can negatively affect real-life sociability and, consequently, the user’s overall well-being. However, it is possible to mitigate these impacts through the conscious use of smartphones. One effective approach is to dedicate part of the time typically spent on the internet or social media to activities that strengthen your faith and deepen your connection with God and His Word.
Every Wednesday and Sunday, we hold meetings focused on meditating on the Word of God and fostering our communion with the Almighty. Click here for our full schedule and join us at your nearest Universal Church. If you feel you have lost control over your technology usage or developed any other habits of concern, please feel free to contact our 24-hour helpline at 020 7686 6000 or send us a WhatsApp message at 020 7686 6010 for spiritual advice. An attentive adviser will be ready to talk to you.
Sources: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nomophobia
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/nomophobia
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563215001806
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