Excessive Digital Device Usage During the COVID-19 Pandemic (and Beyond)

Guest Bio: Lori Whatley, PhD

Dr. Lori Whatley is a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in the effects of digital device usage on both individuals and businesses.

With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Whatley has worked with thousands of clients both domestic and international. Her client list spans to everyone from families to CEOs and high-level executives of multi-billion-dollar companies, foreign diplomats and professional athletes. As a thought leader in her field, she has been featured in Inc., Yahoo News, ESPN, Business Insider plus many local and regional publications.

Around 10 years ago, Dr. Whatley noticed a pattern among her patients and even her own family. Patients were landing in her office with all different problems (insomnia, anxiety, lack of focus, etc) and when she finally identified the culprit—addiction to our devices—she discovered her true calling. In order to be a source of healing and recovery for her patients and her family she began researching the effects of excessive digital device usage.

During her countless hours of research, Dr. Whatley was astounded by the information she found regarding how too much device usage can effect our lives. She knew she needed to share her information and offer solutions to families and individuals to help overcome the effects of device overuse. Once her solutions were implemented into her work, Dr. Whatley immediately began to see results and recognize a difference in her patients, clients and even in her own home.

In addition to working 1-on-1 with clients, Dr. Whatley advises businesses on the operational effects of over-connected employees, how to manage technology distractions in the workplace and drive employee productivity.

Her first book Effects of Texting on Marital Relationships (April 2018) offers a poignant, data-backed critique of texting within marriage, including its often-negative impact.

Her new book, Connected & Engaged (February 2020) takes a look at the role excessive digital device usage has on our lives. From stress, empathy, intuition, and vulnerability to focus, sleep, communication and community, this book covers a wide range of topics inviting the reader to evaluate their own lives and overcome reliance on digital devices for overall well-being.

Though Dr. Whatley splits her time between Georgia and Florida, she is a passionate traveler and has visited more than 87 countries to date. Despite her professional success, her two children continue to be her greatest achievement.