For many people, 10 minutes away from your smarpthone can feel like a lifetime.
Now, a study has revealed that if you feel lost without your smartphone in your hand, you may have ‘nomophobia'.
Scientists from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, found that the condition is extremely common in college students, and is linked with poor sleep.
Dr Jennifer Peszka, who led the study, said: “We found that college students who experience more ‘nomophobia’ were also more likely to experience sleepiness and poorer sleep hygiene such as long naps and inconsistent bed and wake times.
“Because our study suggests a connection between nomophobia and poorer sleep, it is interesting to consider what the implications will be if nomophobia severity continues to increase.”
In the study, the researchers surveyed 327 university students about their sleep habits and phone use.
The results revealed that a whopping 89% have moderate or severe nomophobia.
Worryingly, greater nomophobia was significantly related to greater daytime sleepiness, and poor sleep quality.
Based on the findings, the researchers suggest that people should limit the time on their smartphone before and during bedtime.
Dr Peszka added: “The recommendation to curtail bedtime phone use, which is meant to improve sleep and seems rather straightforward, might need adjustment or consideration for these individuals.”
