15 MARCH 2023 THE NEW ADDICTION

Human society has indulged in addictions for centuries. Alcoholic beverages are of course, the first one that we think of. Cigarette smoking addiction overall, affects only about 20% of the population; however I would venture to guess that here in Wyoming, it is far greater than that. Drug addictions are a growing problem as more dangerous drugs, both legal and illegal, are being created and peddled everywhere. Sexual addiction probably occurs more often than is currently believed, because it is something people are less willing to talk about. There are other seemingly “minor” addictions, like gambling and watching television. What do all of these addictions, and the growing numbers of them, say about the human species?

There is a quieter, less noticeable kind of addiction that has crept into our society in the past twenty years. The emergence of smartphones and text messaging has become commonplace. Many people my age and older have kept up with the technology because it has become a mainstay for our children and grandchildren. My generation must either keep up or drop out.

It concerns me that the cell phone has become the favorite blanket or stuffed toy for today’s younger members of society. It seems that the youth of today cannot function without them. The phones have become a kind of smokescreen behind which many people hide in order to avoid actual communication. Hunched over their devices, they are freed from engaging in eye to eye contact. Smartphones have become a means by which we can isolate ourselves in an overcrowded world.

Before cell phones, I would often let my wall phone ring if I was busy, or if I did not want to deal with a telemarketer. This drove my ex-husband crazy, but I knew that if someone truly needed to get in touch with me, they would either call back a little later or leave a message. I occasionally forget my phone when I head out to go to work or to the store. I don’t mind. I turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode when I am napping and I have it set to automatically go into “Bedtime Mode” between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. I don’t like addictions of any kind because I don’t want to give power to the “things” in my life. Cell phones may be the latest addiction, but I value my freedom too much to ever succumb to any addiction.