María Quevedo, psychologist: “We are facing a silent and normalized addiction with very real consequences”

Hyperconnectivity is no longer just a trend. It is now a reality that is beginning to seriously concern mental health experts. The heavy use of digital devices such as smartphones, social media, video games, and online platforms is giving rise to a new form of dependency: technology addiction, a disorder that is becoming more widespread and, in many cases, underdiagnosed.

“We are facing a silent addiction, one that has become socially normalized but carries very real consequences. Loss of control, social isolation, and anxiety when access to a device is unavailable are all clear warning signs,” explains María Quevedo, a licensed clinical psychologist and Director of Treatment at Clínica RECAL. Specialists at the center warn that this issue is already having a direct impact on the emotional, social, and physical health of the population, especially among younger people.

What technophilia looks like

So-called technophilia, or compulsive dependence on technological devices, is characterized by a constant need to stay connected and difficulty limiting use. Among its main causes are the search for instant gratification, such as likes, notifications, and digital rewards, emotional avoidance, and the persuasive design of many apps, which are built to capture and hold users’ attention.

Its manifestations are wide-ranging, from addiction to social media and video games to nomophobia, the irrational fear of being without a smartphone, as well as compulsive consumption of online content.

“When technology use begins to replace personal relationships, affects academic performance, or alters mood, we are talking about an addiction with clinical impact. This is not simply a matter of habits. It is a mental health issue,” Quevedo adds.

Among the main consequences are the deterioration of social relationships, increased anxiety and depression, sleep problems, a sedentary lifestyle, and greater exposure to risks such as cyberbullying or inappropriate online content.

“Technology itself is not the problem. The problem lies in how we use it. It is essential to educate, support, and, when necessary, treat this dependency with professional tools,” Quevedo concludes.

From RECAL, specialists stress the importance of addressing this issue through both therapeutic and preventive approaches.

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