Technology is amazing! It really is. Even though on a regular basis I want to throw my computer out the window because it acts up or won’t respond as I need it to. But for the most part, technology has afforded us opportunities that were unavailable to us even a few short years ago. At the same time, internet use, gaming, and Facebook addictions are becoming serious problems, even being thrust into the mental health world. And yet, the problem really has little to do with technology itself.

In a recent research summary report, Dr. Charles Fay from the Love and Logic Institute reports that “People at risk of developing these problems feel so badly about themselves, and their lives, that they will do anything to escape into a world where they feel competent, powerful and liked.”

I want to briefly mention three contributors to this problem – for both adults and children. First, these individuals are trying to Escape for Self. They feel that they don’t measure up to the expectations of those around them. Unattractive, Inadequate, and responsible for all that goes wrong – are feelings that frequently overwhelm them. Second, they often believe that they are Worthless, which can lead to severe anxiety and depression. Finally, they perceive a Lack of Affection believing that there is not anything that they can do to please their spouse (or in the case of children – their parents). They are heard to frequently say – “Nothing I do is good enough.”

This week’s tip is simple – be intentional in letting those you love know how much you care and value them. Let them know that they are “good enough.” Actually, if we are honest in our assessment, they are probably “better than we deserve.” Begin to communicate that this week – and every week.