Romanians grapple with mobile phone dependence as experts suggest practical detachment strategies
A growing number of Romanians are trying to leave home without their phones, while specialists explain why the habit is hard to break and offer tips to reduce reliance.
An online poll of Romanian internet users reveals a split between those who experiment with phone-free outings and those who consider the mobile device indispensable for everyday functions like payments, transport tickets and emergency calls. Several respondents recount situations where the absence of a phone would have worsened accidents or delayed help. Experts featured on the podcast The Diary of a CEO, including social-psychology professor Jonathan Haidt and Harvard Medical School public-health specialist Aditi Nerurkar, discuss the psychological pull of smartphones and propose concrete measures: uninstalling time-draining apps, switching screens to grayscale, disabling non-essential notifications, and physically distancing the phone during work or leisure.
They cite studies showing that short periods without internet access can improve attention, mood and sleep quality. The advice aims to help users regain control over screen time without abandoning technology entirely.
Why it matters
Understanding phone addiction and practical ways to curb it can improve mental health and safety for everyday users.
In this story
