Social Media Addiction: How To Remove The Dependancy

Probably the most addictive thing known to man is: Social Media. Sites like Facebook and Twitter have been capturing the attention of millions since their creation in the early 2000’s. What is it about these sites that makes them so irresistible – that makes us helpless to do anything else but spend countless hours reading, scanning and skimming through hundreds and thousands of posts and pictures about someone’s beach trip or the “latest way to cook lasagna without cheese?”

Two words – Connection Addiction.

Connection Addiction is a phrase that expresses ones strong need to stay connected to people and feel like they are in the loop or feel like they can talk to someone. It comes from the feeling that one gets when they feel like someone is there or they feel comforted.

In a society that is based completely around texting, Social Media, and the latest, greatest way to talk to someone without being in the same room, feeling connected to someone is a really big deal. It helps people get through the day, feel popular, and feel wanted by others. The reason why people can’t get enough of social media is because it is their ‘social life.’ Its how they stay connected with family, friends, and loved ones. It’s how they ‘stalk’ their favorite movie star or new love interest and stay updated with the latest fads.

Now, obviously, not everyone experiences Connection Addiction. Some of the Social Media surfers have the ability not to get hooked on these ever-so-addictive sites, but for those who do stay up until 4 am cramming for a midterm because they spent viable studying hours Facetiming or Snapchatting, here are some great tips from @yourlibary on how to remove the dependency:

• Unplug and reconnect. Impose limits on the use of cell phones, iPads, iPods and other technologies every day, such as during mealtime and at social events.
• Put away your cell phone or smartphone. At least an hour before bedtime (if necessary, stow the device on a hall table out of reach and earshot). The constant stimulation of cell phone use and text exchanges hinders the wind-down phase needed for sound sleep.
• Set ground rules for email. Check your emails at regular intervals, not continuously, for instance, at 9 a.m.; 12 noon; and 3 p.m.
• Put people first. By always giving preference to the human being in front of you rather than the pinging phone or text.
• Talk rather than text. If you’re a text-first person, try making a phone call and engaging in an old-fashioned conversation. Over the phone (or in person), you can pick up emotion through vocal inflections, pauses and a person’s tone and timing that you’ll miss when only writing.
• Moderate your use of technology. Unless you have a full-blown connection addiction and need professional help, don’t try to go cold turkey on technology. Instead, strive to reign in your use of digital devices.