Most of us are aware of the many reasons why technology should not be overused, like disrupted sleep patterns, lack of exercise, risk of carpal tunnel syndrome, eye and back strain, financial problems, job loss and relationship problems. However, do we ever consider the sacrifice we make in terms of our own personal time. Personal time is sacred time, time to reflect deeply, time to be ourselves, time to grow on a personal level. Personal time is our free time, our time to contemplate life, to think creatively about our life, to listen to our inner self, to connect to the force of life within us. Yet we lay this magical time at the feet of our technological devices, sacrificing our deepest need, which is to connect with self.

Why do we harm ourselves in this way? It becomes a way to escape problematic life circumstances and relationships, a way to avoid dealing with difficult situations. It gives us a feeling of connectedness when in reality we are feeling disconnected and lonely. It gives us a feeling of status and trendiness, of being taken seriously and listened to, when really we are suffering with low self esteem. It allows us to feel in control, when we feel overwhelmed by life. It allows us to create a different persona, an image of the person we would have liked to be, when we are unhappy with who we are. It hides our poor social skills allowing us to connect with people through other means. It becomes a way to dull pain, both physically and emotionally It allows us to stay anonymous, thereby guarding ourselves from being evaluated by others. It helps us to feel alive, when inside we are feeling down and depressed.

Balance is key. Imbalance needs to be addressed. We need to become conscious of the specific reasons underlying our over dependence on technology. Here in lies the gift….emerging from the state of ‘unconsciousness’ that our overuse of technology keeps us in, addressing the underlying causes like lack of self esteem, problematic relationships etc. and receiving the personal growth and sense of true connection with self and life itself.
It is advisable to make use of a Psychologist specializing in addiction as a guide on your healing journey. Your Psychologist will help you to unpack and explore the psychological reasons underpinning your addiction, be a witness to your healing journey, and offer
containment and emotional safety as you transition from unconsciousness into enlightenment.

by Dr Lize www.healingthemind.co.za