Tengrinews.kz - Addiction experts have shared the signs of unhealthy TikTok use, why the app is addictive, and how to recognize it in yourself, according to HuffPost.
Tengrinews.kz - Addiction experts have shared the signs of unhealthy TikTok use, why the app is addictive, and how to recognize it in yourself, according to HuffPost.
Experts agree that there's one clear sign of TikTok addiction - your use of the app is taking over your life.
"If someone finds themselves skipping work tasks, ignoring family or friends, or struggling to keep up with school or chores because they’re too wrapped up in endless scrolling, that’s a strong sign that their usage has become very unhealthy," said Michael Villarreal, the CEO of Tres Vistas Recovery, a drug treatment center in California.
You think about the app constantly.
Whether you’re taking a break at work, going to the bathroom, or trying to get out of bed, you might find yourself wanting to watch TikTok.
“If TikTok is the first thing you think about in the morning and the last thing before bed, or if you’re constantly replaying videos in your head during other activities, that’s a sign your brain is hyper-focused on it,” Villarreal said.
You feel emotionally dependent on it.
Feeling anxious, bored, or irritable without TikTok, or relying on it for validation, are other signs of addiction, according to the expert.
You are experiencing physical pain.
Yes, unfortunately, spending too much time on TikTok can even lead to physical problems.
Why is scrolling on TikTok so addictive?
How can stupid videos be so addictive that they can cause real harm?
“TikTok is brilliantly designed to keep you hooked. It’s like a slot machine: You don’t know what’s coming next, but you’re sure it’ll be entertaining, so you keep scrolling,” he said.
Beyond providing endless entertainment, TikTok’s design is strategic. Its algorithm tailors content to you, relieves stress, and can help you feel connected to others in a more comfortable and easier way.
What to do if you want to scroll less on social media:
Set limits.
Create phone-free zones.
Find new habits or hobbies.
Get curious.
Feeling the need to check the app?
Ask yourself why.
Seek professional support.