Ten Signs You're Addicted to Your Mobile Devices

We often joke that we can't live without our smartphones, tablets and laptops, and that we need connectivity as much as we need food and drink. But that sentiment stops being funny when our dependency crosses over into a more harmful state and descends into an unsettling addiction. Obsessive dependence on technology—like being hooked on gambling, alcohol or drugs—can cause high stress, physical deterioration, poor self-esteem, relationship issues and even job loss. Losing a job may seem drastic, but it does happen when professionals neglect their work and spend an excessive amount of time pursuing non-business-related activities on their mobile devices. These diversions include online games, videos, chats and social media. And it's not only about the amount of time you spend on a device; it's more about the way the activity affects you. With that in mind, consider the following 10 signs that indicate you (or a colleague) may be suffering from technology addiction. It will give you a sense of how your emotions, behavior and physical state are affected by your device usage. These signs were compiled by a number of online authorities, including Addictions.com and EveryDayHealth.com.