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At this stage, your phone is probably your most valuable possession. Everything you need, everything about you, and everyone in your life is on your phone. And because this is so, we tend to turn to our phones when we feel anxious.

Signs to watch out for

While our phones are there for a reason, when and how we use them could be our involuntary response to a situation that causes anxiety. For example, doomscrolling can be a sign that you have anxiety. It signifies your need to find an answer, and in a stressful situation, your anxious brain might think you'll find the solution as you scroll. In some cases, it can worsen an existing mental health condition. 

Using your phone or social media to avoid a real-life social situation is another sign of anxiety. Some studies suggest that the excessive use of mobile phones during social interactions may be a result of social anxiety. Socially anxious individuals tend to turn to their phones during awkward encounters since they feel safer communicating through them. The case of avoiding phone calls and preferring to use text, other messaging apps, or voice messages has the same principle behind it.

Aside from these, other signs to look out for include the inability to put your phone down, experiencing panic when your phone doesn't seem to work the way it should and immediately addressing notifications as they come.

What to do if your phone is fueling your anxiety

If you find that your phone is fueling your anxiety, don't feel bad about yourself. The fact is, technology is designed to keep you attached to it.

A quick way to address this is by placing a physical indication to stop using your phone for a while. This may mean putting it in a timed box or simply placing a rubber band around it as a reminder. You can also set time limits when using your phone or certain apps. Some features allow you to do this, or you can even do it manually. Keeping yourself busy and practicing self-care will help address your anxiety as well.