The Influence of Smartphone Addiction and Nomophobia on Lifestyle and Mental Health: Behavioural Disruptions and Intervention Strategies

Smartphone addiction and nomophobia are social problems many people these days are living in the modern digital society irrespective of age, gender and place, Users do not think about the problems these devices cause but are really enjoying being in the digital world wherein the individuals are travelling from one place to another without physically moving, spending money on online shopping buying things from various places of country, being connected with loved once with just few seconds and seeing them in real with video calling and cherishing the lovable moments, entertaining themselves with favourite songs, videos and even playing games, getting works done quickly paying bills all these making life more smooth and comfortable, meting many virtual friends and becoming acquainted and learning many aspects like language, culture and traditions from overall globe living in digital world reaching anyone anytime anywhere with one gadget. This effecting less time with family, not contributing in household chores always being connected, virtual extramarital affairs, while like walking with their mobiles and crossing roads, less interaction with person who is close by, reduced social gathering for festivals, entertaining themselves without any physical friend in person, less interaction with family members, anger and using abusive language if expressed to reduce usage of mobile, depressed if not connected online, not interested to move outside for any physical activity, reduced sleep wherein dark circles around eyes due to inappropriate disturbed sleeping schedules and unhealthy eating habits, choices of foods are changed due to online food with colorful and more attractive more options available from various restaurants, roadside foods this is also well connected with online delivery apps choosing rather than cooking self or preferring to eat food prepared at home. negative comments on social media posts, extreme decisions, hiding their real identity either age, genders or place, cyberbullying and cybercrimes, platonic love (internet relationship) without knowing the other person falling in love getting emotionally attached and even meeting in person and sometimes becoming victims of catfishing, Victims of negative comments on social media unable to accept their real identity taking extreme steps leading to stress and harming self. Both these sides of virtual world with love, caring, happiness, physically connected and emotionally involved to another side with uncontrollable desire, hate, jealously, conflicts, bullying, insults, frustration, anger and sad. We are surrounded with these irrespective of willingness. These positive and negative experiences, from connections and support to jealousy, frustration, and harmful behaviors. This study exploring on how smartphone addiction and nomophobia influence the key aspects of one’s lifestyle, including sleep patterns, physical activity, social life, and psychological health. The findings of the study reveal that people who use smartphones for longer durations have poor lifestyle practices in eating, physical activities and in overall well-being. The study also considers possible solutions to the problem, such as ‘digital detox’ and mindfulness in the setting of smartphone overconsumption. The research implies that there should be stringent regulations concerning smartphone usage to prevent further damage to the community.