By Neh Elad
BUEA, Cameroon – The streets of Buea are witnessing a disturbing trend: phone addiction has taken hold of the youths, with many spending hours on end glued to their phones. From classrooms to kitchens, parks to bedrooms, phone addiction has crept into daily life, altering routines and straining relationships in ways that many never imagined.
“I was cooking dinner when I got caught up in a social media video. Next thing I knew, my pot had burned to a crisp. The whole kitchen was filled with smoke, and my mom was so angry,” Vanessa, an inhabitant in Great Soppo, said. Vanessa’s story, though shocking, is far from unique. Across town, youths confess to losing time, opportunities, and even relationships because of their inability to put down their phones.
To Brayan, a resident in Buea, phone addiction has become a daily struggle. “I’ll be in class, and I’ll catch myself scrolling through Instagram instead of taking notes. My grades have suffered because of it, and my parents are always on my case about it,’’ said Brayan.
Psychologists describe this as a hallmark of behavioural addiction. Unlike substances such as alcohol or tobacco, smartphones provide an endless stream of stimulation, videos, games, messages, likes, and comments, designed to trigger dopamine release in the brain. Over time, the urge to check one’s phone becomes almost irresistible.
Some young people have even neglected their responsibilities due to phone addiction. “I was supposed to meet up with friends at the park, but I got so caught up in a game that I forgot; they were all waiting for me, and I felt so embarrassed,’’ said Cynthia.
The impact on relationships is also significant. “I’ve lost touch with friends who are always on their phones. “It’s hard to have a conversation without them checking their phone every five minutes,’’ Brayan noted.
Despite the growing concern, some young people are beginning to seek ways to break free. Vanessa, who burned her dinner, says she is experimenting with self-control strategies. “I’ve tried setting limits on my phone use, but it’s hard. I guess I just need to be more disciplined,” Vanessa stated.
Cynthia has taken her battle a step further by introducing daily phone-free routines. “I’m trying to use my phone more responsibly, I’m setting aside phone-free time each day and focusing on my studies and relationships,’’ Cynthia Said.
Experts suggest practical approaches such as setting daily screen-time limits, turning off notifications, or designating no-phone zones in homes and classrooms. Schools and families, they argue, also have a critical role to play in helping young people strike a healthier balance.
The challenge, however, lies in how deeply integrated phones have become in modern life. From banking to entertainment, education to communication, the smartphone is now a lifeline to many. Phone addiction is a serious problem that requires attention and action. By acknowledging the problem and seeking solutions, Buea’s youths can take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life.
