American researchers have been trying to find out whether addiction to smartphones can lead to depression or whether it is people prone to depressive symptoms that present favorable conditions for this type of addiction.

Researchers have found that heavy smartphone dependence is linked to increased risks of developing depressive symptoms and loneliness.
In recent years, studies linking smartphone addiction and depression, especially among adolescents, are increasing. But is it really our tendency to remain staring at the screen that causes depression or vice versa? Is this theory valid in both directions? These are the questions asked by American researchers from the University of Arizona (United States).

The authors of the study define addiction to the smartphone as: a constant desire to use the object, which can result in a feeling of discomfort in the event of deprivation. " There is a problem when people are so dependent on the device that they may feel anxious if they do not have access to it and use it to the detriment of their daily lives ," said Matthew Lapierre, assistant professor in the communications department of the University of Arizona and lead author of the study.
Professor Lapierre and his team interviewed 346 adolescents in two stages, over a total period of 3 months. Published in the  Journal of Adolescent Health, the study selected participants aged 17 to 20 years. The researchers proposed that the volunteers assess their feeling of lack on a scale of 1 to 4, by responding to a series of statements, such as " I panic when I cannot use my smartphone ".

Participants also answered questions designed to gauge their feelings of loneliness, depressive symptoms, and how often they use their phones.

Identify the causes of addiction to limit the time spent on the smartphone
By analyzing the responses of the volunteers, the researchers found that a strong dependence on the smartphone was linked to increased risks of developing depressive symptoms and loneliness. Their research therefore confirms what has been demonstrated in several previous studies: namely that intensive use of the smartphone tends to isolate and promote anxiety.  

In light of these results, the study authors believe that it could be useful for those concerned to assess their relationship with their devices and to impose limits if necessary. " If someone uses their smartphone as a bulwark against stress, they can for example try other healthier approaches, such as talking to a close friend for support or doing meditation exercises ," suggests researcher Pengfei Zhao. , co-author of the study.

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