My Partner Is Always on Their Phone – Am I Overreacting?

Lately, I feel like I’m competing with a screen for my partner’s attention. No matter what we’re doing, they’re always on their phone, and it’s starting to make me feel invisible. Am I overreacting, or is this a real issue?

Background Information

We’ve been together for four years, and I love my partner. But over time, their phone use has become excessive. Whether we’re eating dinner, watching a movie, or even having a conversation, their eyes are locked on their screen.

I get that phones are a big part of life, but when I feel like I’m constantly being tuned out, it starts to hurt. I don’t want to be controlling, but I also don’t want to feel ignored.

The Main Conflict

Last night, we went out to dinner, and the entire time, my partner barely looked up from their phone. I finally said, “Can we just have one meal without screens?”

They sighed and replied, “I’m just checking something real quick.” But ‘real quick’ turned into the entire dinner, and I felt like I was eating alone.

The Aftermath

When we got home, I brought it up again, and my partner got defensive. “It’s not a big deal. Everyone does it.”

I tried to explain that it makes me feel unimportant, but they dismissed it, saying I was “being dramatic.” Now I’m wondering—am I expecting too much?

Community Reaction

“Constant phone use can seriously damage a relationship. You deserve attention.”

“If they can’t put their phone down for a meal, that’s a problem.”

“It’s about balance. Maybe set phone-free times together?”

“You’re not being dramatic—your feelings are valid.”

“If they’re not willing to listen, that’s the real red flag.”

Final Thoughts

I don’t expect them to ditch their phone entirely, but I do want to feel like a priority.

Has anyone else dealt with this? How do you get a partner to be more present without feeling like you’re nagging?

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