Breaking Free from Screen Addiction: Insights from Dr. Hilarie Cash
What we emphasize with families is that this technology is not in and of itself evil and it certainly can be useful.
Ever felt like your screen time is out of control? In this thought-provoking episode of 'One Hour AT A Time', host Mary Woods sits down with Dr. Hilarie Cash, PhD, LMHC, the executive director of reSTART, an Internet Addiction Recovery Program. Dr. Cash sheds light on the growing issue of internet and video game addiction, explaining how it affects not just individuals but also their families and relationships.
She emphasizes that while technology itself isn't inherently bad, its overuse can lead to significant problems. Dr. Cash shares her expertise on recognizing the signs of addiction and the importance of seeking help. She talks about the unique approach of the reSTART program, which offers a 45-day abstinence-based recovery plan designed to help participants break free from their tech dependencies. The program includes a variety of activities and life skills training that are often neglected due to excessive screen time.
For parents worried about their kids' gaming habits, Dr. Cash offers practical advice based on her book 'Video Games and Your Kids'. She discusses how much gaming is too much and the effects it can have on the brain and body at different stages of life. The conversation also touches on the benefits of social cognition retraining and setting boundaries, along with the use of monitoring software to manage screen time.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with internet or video game addiction or for those who have loved ones facing these challenges. Dr. Cash's insights provide a roadmap to understanding and addressing this modern-day issue, making it clear that recovery is possible with the right support and strategies.