In this episode of Therapy Talks, I’m getting real about my relationship with my phone—yes, the mindless scrolling, the dopamine dips, and the patterns that pull us in even when we know better. After a recent therapy session, I uncovered something huge: my scrolling isn’t just a bad habit… it’s a coping mechanism rooted in childhood hypervigilance and a dysregulated nervous system.
I share what my therapist told me that completely shifted the way I see my screen time, why trying to “fix” behavior with more behavior isn’t the answer, and how our nervous system, past experiences, and emotions all play a part in the patterns we can’t seem to break. If you’ve ever felt frustrated with your phone use or wondered why you do it even when it drains you—this one’s for you. This isn’t just about scrolling. It’s about healing the root.
Let’s talk about how to break free, feel better, and create healthier habits from a place of understanding—not shame.
Takeaways
Therapy is not just for those in crisis; it can enhance overall well-being.
Addiction can manifest in various forms, including technology use.
Understanding the root causes of behaviors is crucial for change.
Hypervigilance can lead to maladaptive coping mechanisms like phone scrolling.
Doing nothing can be uncomfortable and trigger anxiety for some individuals.
Finding peace and simplicity is essential for mental health.
Healthy coping strategies can replace maladaptive behaviors.
Mindfulness practices can help in managing anxiety and stress.
Recognizing triggers is the first step towards change.
The journey of self-improvement is ongoing and requires deep understanding.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Therapy
02:25 Understanding Addiction and Coping Mechanisms
05:09 Hypervigilance and Its Effects
07:57 The Challenge of Doing Nothing
10:35 Finding Healthy Alternatives to Coping
13:15 Transformative Insights and Future Goals
