Here’s a breakdown of seven signs that your attraction to picking up your smart phone might be affecting your relationship. Our psychologist give you some practical tips to shift these habits for a better partnership.

7 Signs Your Phone Might Be Affecting Your Relationship

1. You’re More Engaged with Your Phone Than Your Partner
   If you’re scrolling through social media or responding to messages while your partner is trying to talk, your phone might be taking precedence over your relationship.
2. Your Partner Complains About Your Phone Use
   If your partner feels neglected or frustrated due to your phone habits, it’s a clear indication that your device is having an impact.
3. You Feel Anxious When You Can’t Find Your Phone
   Constantly checking your phone or feeling uneasy when it’s not within reach can signal an unhealthy attachment.
4. You Use Your Phone as an Escape
   Turning to your phone during a disagreement or uncomfortable situations can prevent you from resolving issues with your partner and communicating.
5. Intimacy is Being Interrupted
   If your phone is present during intimate moments or in bed, it can create a barrier to closeness and connection.
6. You Prioritise Online Interactions Over Real-Life Connections
   Spending more time online than interacting with your partner (live watching a movie, going for a walk, etc.) can lead to feelings of disconnection.
7. You’re Missing Out on Shared Experiences
   If you’re constantly on your phone, you might be missing out on opportunities to create memories together.

Our Best Tips to Shift Your Phone Habits

1. Set Specific Times to Be Phone-Free – Allocate certain times, such as during meals or before bed, to be phone-free. Focus on engaging with your partner during these moments.
2. Listen to Your Partner’s Concerns – Work together to establish phone usage boundaries that respect both of your needs.
3. Practice Being Present – Leave your phone in another room during quality time or at dinner time with your partner. Give you mind a break.
4. Address Problems Directly – Recognise when you’re using your phone to avoid confrontation and make an effort to address issues face-to-face.
5. Establish a “No Phones in the Bedroom” Rule – Protect your intimate time by keeping phones out of the bedroom.
6. Plan Phone-Free Activities – Create opportunities to disconnect from devices and enjoy activities together, like going for a walk or cooking a meal.

What You Can Expect to See When You Change Your Phone Habits

1. Deeper Conversations and Connection – experience richer conversations, a deeper connection, and a renewed sense of closeness.
2. Mutual Respect and Appreciation – establishing boundaries fosters a sense of being valued and understood, leading to feeling supported.
3. Reduced Anxiety and Increased Mindfulness – letting go of constant “phone-checking” shifts your mindset and reduces feelings of anxiousness.
4. Relationship Resilience – facing issues directly builds resilience and trust, creating a partnership that can handle challenges with open and honest communication.
5. Reignited Passion and Closeness – removing distractions allows you to fully immerse yourselves in each other.
6. Restored Sense of Togetherness – prioritising your partner over online interactions can restore a sense of togetherness and joy, building a stronger, more connected relationship.

Supporting You Through a Life of Technology

At Creating Change, we understand the impact that modern life, including technology, can have on relationships. Our team of expert therapists is here to support you and your partner in navigating these challenges. Whether you’re struggling with communication, intimacy, or finding balance in your relationship, we offer a range of services to help you reconnect and strengthen your bond.

Make Your Choice

^{Written by Clinical Psychologist Rebecca Deane – www.creatingchange.net.au}
_{Psychology support in the Hills District, Western Sydney & Surrounds (including Rouse Hill, Bella Vista, Glenwood, Castle Hill, Kellyville, The Hawkesbury, Penrith Nepean, Blacktown, Epping, Ryde, Pennant Hills areas and surrounds)}