Nomophobia Linked to Anxiety and Narcissism in New Romanian Study

Nomophobia, the fear of being without a mobile phone, is not an officially recognized medical diagnosis but can cause significant anxiety, stress and physical symptoms such as palpitations, sweating and irritability. A July 2026 study conducted by the University Alexandru Ioan Cuza in Romania found that individuals with higher narcissistic traits are more likely to develop strong dependence on their phones and experience heightened anxiety when disconnected. The research notes that mobile‑phone use triggers dopamine release, reinforcing compulsive checking behavior, and that chronic dependence may increase the risk of long‑term depression and anxiety. The phenomenon is reported across all age groups worldwide, reflecting the deep integration of smartphones into daily life.