41 per cent of Brits believe that technology addiction is comparable to alcohol or substance abuse, as the amount we use our devices starts to become a significant worry amongst the public and not just the experts.

The findings come from a survey of 1,000 Brits by the7stars, which also found that 67 per cent of 18 to 34-year olds feel they need to take a ‘break from technology – a figure that rose to 71 per cent amongst 18 to 24-year olds.

Despite this, just six per cent of 25 to 34-year olds actively turn their phones off during evenings or at the weekend. And 64 per cent of 25 to 34-year olds say they like being connected all of the time.

The research also found that 75 per cent of Londoners still claim that they worry about losing face-to-face conversations and interactions. On that point, 10 per cent of 18 to 24-year olds admit to often recording voice notes instead of making actual phone calls.

“Technology brings with it distinct advantages but it’s clear Brits have a hard time prying themselves away from their smartphones – even when they feel they really need to,” said Frances Revel, insight lead at the7stars.

“In an increasingly digital world, attention has become a valuable commodity, but it’s clear the balance may need to be restored with users needing to feel more in control of their tech habits.

“Many tech companies have already started to help consumers ‘detox digitally’, urging them to develop more healthy relationships between the amount of time spent in the digital world, and that spent connecting to people off-screen. There’s still time for more tech brands to follow suit and encourage digital wellness, which must be a priority moving forward.”