Best: Hang up on your cellphone addiction

ORLANDO, Fla. (Ivanhoe Newswire) - Almost 50% of Americans are addicted to their cell phones.

On average, people check their phones every 12 minutes throughout the day.

Almost 44% of Americans say being away from their phones gives them anxiety and two-thirds of children spend four hours or more a day on smartphones.

So how can we hang up on this addiction and dial into our mental health?

Whether texting, calling, emailing, scrolling, or playing games it seems like everyone is addicted to their phones!

A study done at San Diego State University found that prolonged screen time increases depression and suicide-related thoughts, especially in young girls.

“So, things like anxiety, depression, all our significant predictors of problem maximum smartphone use,” said Alex J. Holt, PhD, Assistant Professor of Psychology, University of Cincinnati.

Here are a few tips to help you detach from your device: first, consider setting designated tech-free times.

For example, make mealtimes a tech-free zone.

Try digital detox periods; Taking a break from screens for a day, a weekend, or even a week can significantly boost your mental health.

Implementing screen time limits can also help.

Many devices offer built-in tools to track and limit the amount of time you spend on specific apps.

Reconnect with hobbies and interests.

“So, when people are more prone to being bored, they’re going to be more likely to use their smartphone to address their uncertainty,” said Holt.

Consider downgrading your phone. You could simply replace your smartphone with a phone that doesn’t support apps so you can stay in the present.

There are ways to disconnect from your phone and reconnect with the world.

Also, consider creating tech-free zones in your home. Designate certain areas, like bedrooms or the dining room, as off-limits for devices.

Removing devices from these spaces can improve sleep quality and encourage more meaningful interactions with those around you.

Contributors to this news report include: Adahlia Thomas, Producer; Bob Walko, Editor

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