What is Nomophobia?

Nomophobia:Fear of being without your phone.

We start to use cell phones at an early age and it is difficult to think of a time without it.We are so much dependent on it that the thought of not being able to access our calls and messages can be discomforting.If the thought of not being able to access the phone makes you tremble and shake,then you might be suffering from Nomophobia.

What is nomophobia?

Nomophobia is short for "no mobile phobia" and is categorized under the topic of techno phobia.Nomophobia is the helplessness experienced by the  people when they cannot use their phones.The word was coined in 2008 in UK when a study pointed out that 53 percent of cell phone users experienced anxiety when they lose their phones or run out of battery or have to stay in out of coverage areas.A 2012 study calls nomophobia "possibly the biggest non-drug addiction" of the century.

Who is prone to nomophobia?

1.The younger people are more likely to suffer from nomophobia(between the age groups of 18 and 24).
2.Women suffer from nomophobia more than men(70 percent).
3.People suffering from panic disorders and anxiety are prone to nomophobia.
4.Those with low self esteem can also suffer from nomophobia.

What are the symptoms of nomophobia?

Unable to use the phone,the sufferer may undergo an anxiety attack.Common symptoms include anxiety,trembling,sweating,confusion fast heartbeats and combativeness.Emotional symptoms include depression,fear,panic dejection,loneliness and low-self esteem.

How can Nomophobia be treated?

It is not included officially in the diagnostic and statistical Manual disorders,it has been recognised as phobia.Since it is a new phenomena there are multiple studies that discuss proven methods for nomophobia.However drug based approach and behavioural treatments are both used to address nomophobia.The impact of drugs like tranylcypromine and clonazepam are being explored,along with cognitive behaviour therapy to treat this phobia.