Most families today struggle with the question of how much time is “normal” to spend on a phone or tablet. A child who reaches for a device as soon as they wake up in the morning, stays up all night watching TikTok, and fights over putting down the phone are common, are not the exception. But the question is: is this just part of growing up in the digital age, or is it risky behavior that needs attention?
Digital technologies have their advantages – they make it easier to learn, communicate with friends and access information. The problem arises when they become a daily “escape” from reality, stress or boredom. The algorithms of social networks and games are designed to keep us there as long as possible thanks to random rewards and act like an addictive substance.
How to know when it's time to act? Here are 7 warning signs:
A simple test for you: For 2-3 days, write down how much time your child (and you) spends on screens. Compare your estimate with reality – it often surprises us. Ask: “What do you use your phone for most? Can you be offline for an hour without stress?”
If you notice a combination of warning signs or feel that things are getting out of control, don’t wait to take action. At EUNOMA Clinic, Mgr. Kristýna Březováoffers addiction counseling to help assess the situation, identify underlying causes, and create a clear plan for setting healthy boundaries around digital technology use.
Seeking help is not a failure – it is a responsibility.
Schedule a consultation online or writedirectly to brezova.kristyna@seznam.cz to arrange a consultation with addiction specialist Kristýna Březová.
I have been working in the field of addiction counselling for more than 10 years. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Addictology from the First Faculty of Medicine and a degree in General Medicine from the Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University. In my research, I focus on preventive medicine and epidemiology.
In my work with clients, I combine evidence-based knowledge with a holistic approach to mental health. My medical background enables me to understand the broader clinical context and to better support each client’s individual needs.
