Social media and phone addiction treatment for teens and adults

Internet addiction is an older, broader term for compulsive or hard-to-control internet use, including social media, browsing, or other online activity. It's not a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5 or ICD-11, and today it's more commonly discussed in terms of specific behaviors, like social media or phone use, rather than "the internet" as a whole.

The struggle it describes is real, even though it isn't an official diagnosis. Difficulty controlling internet, phone, or social media use, and the real harm that can cause to sleep, relationships, and daily functioning, is a genuine experience for many people, regardless of what a diagnostic manual calls it.

Breaking a phone addiction usually works best with a mix of practical changes, like turning off nonessential notifications, setting app time limits, and creating phone-free times or spaces, along with professional support to address what's driving the behavior in the first place.

Stopping usually starts with identifying what social media is providing, whether that's distraction, validation, or connection, so you can find healthier ways to meet that need. Combining practical steps like limiting app access with therapy to address any underlying anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem tends to be more effective than willpower alone.

Similar to phone and social media addiction, stopping usually involves a combination of practical limits, like restricting access during certain hours, and professional support to address what's driving the compulsive use, especially if it's tied to anxiety, depression, or difficulty coping with stress.

Start with an honest, judgment-free conversation about what you're noticing and why you're concerned, rather than leading with criticism about their screen time. Ask about what they're getting from their phone or social media use, since understanding that can help guide the conversation. Encourage them to talk to a professional, and let them know treatment options — like Charlie Health's virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) — exist for people ready to make a change.

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a level of behavioral healthcare for people who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care. The goal is to help people manage mental health and substance use challenges while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Our IOP is delivered to clients directly at home through a virtual platform. Each program runs 9–12 weeks and includes 10+ hours of care per week. That time is split across individual therapy and group sessions, with family therapy and psychiatry available when clinically indicated. Scheduling is flexible, with morning, afternoon, and evening options to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

Charlie Health is in-network with more than 600 insurance plans nationwide, including most major commercial plans, TRICARE, and Medicaid in select states. Most clients (60%) pay $0 out-of-pocket. To verify coverage, contact the Admissions Team directly or fill out the online intake form.