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Breaking a negative behaviour pattern can be one of our biggest challenges. When a pattern creates negative consequences in our lives, we may need help to overcome it. In this context, we will discuss what video game addiction is and what can be done to address it.
What is video game addiction?
Video game addiction, also known as gaming addiction, is a condition where a person develops an addiction to video games. This refers to a person who has difficulty controlling their gaming and continues to play even though it negatively affects their life.
Is video game addiction a diagnosis?
Video game addiction is not an official medical diagnosis according to diagnostic references such as DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) or ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases). Still, it is a topic receiving mounting attention in research and healthcare. Whether it is a diagnosis or not, it can be a problem behaviour that may need to be addressed.
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Causes of video game addiction
Video game addiction is often caused by a mixture of biological, psychological and social factors. Psychologically loneliness, depression or anxiety may cause people to use games as an escape from reality. Games are designed to be addictive, stimulating the brain’s reward system and offering immediate reward.
Social aspects such as community within games can also encourage excessive playing, especially for those who may feel isolated in real life. In addition, because games are readily available they are easy to overuse.
Personal factors such as impulsivity and stress management can also play a role, there may also be a genetic predisposition for addictive behaviours. Overall, gaming addiction is a complex issue that varies from person to person.
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Symptoms of video game addiction
Video game addiction is characterized by several symptoms that can vary in intensity and combination between individuals. These include spending excessive time gaming, often at the expense of sleep, work or study. Individuals who game excessively may lose interest in other activities that were previously important to them. They may use gambling as a way of coping with negative emotions such as stress, anxiety or depression. It can cause conflicts in relationships with family, friends or partners, and individuals may lie about or hide how much they gamble or play games.
Individuals who game or gamble may have difficulty controlling or reducing this, even when it affects their work, studies or health. Psychological withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritation or sadness may occur when they are unable to gamble or play games. Despite these negative consequences, an individual who is addicted to gaming may continue to play, which indicates a severe problem that may require professional help.
Children and young people who are addicted to video games
Children and young people with video game addiction face particularly problematic challenges as they are still developing physically and mentally. Excessive gaming can affect social, emotional and cognitive development, limiting the ability to develop social skills and engage in problem-solving or creative thinking activities.
A gaming addiction can lead to neglected schoolwork, reduced concentration and lower marks, as well as affecting their physical health through things such as poor posture, eye problems, low activity levels, and increased risk of obesity. There is also an increased risk of mental health problems such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Gaming can be used as an escape from these problems, which creates a vicious circle.
Sleep disorders are common in children and adolescents who play games late at night, affecting their health and well-being. Additionally, an excessive focus on gaming can lead to social isolation because children prefer gaming to interacting with family and friends. Parents’ role is crucial in monitoring their children’s gaming habits and enforcing a healthy balance between gaming, physical activity, social interaction, and other responsibilities.
In severe cases, professional help, such as therapy or support groups specialized in children and adolescents, may be needed to deal with a gaming addiction. A balanced approach to gaming, with clear boundaries and alternative activities, is essential to promote healthy development.
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Treatment for video game addiction
Treatment for video game addiction is often multifaceted and individualized depending on the individual’s specific situation and needs. Here are some of the most common treatment methods:
- Therapy: Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals understand and change their behaviour. CBT also focuses on addressing underlying issues such as anxiety, depression or social difficulties.
- Family therapy: Because family dynamics are often affected by a person’s gaming or gambling addiction, family therapy can be an important part of treatment. This helps family members understand the problem and how they can support a loved one.
- Support groups and self-help groups: Groups such as those following the 12-step program or similar support groups can provide social support and advice from others who have experienced similar circumstances.
- Medical treatment: In some cases, medication can be used to treat underlying mental health conditions that may be contributing to the addiction, such as anxiety or depression.
- Digital detox and restrictions: Taking a break from digital devices or strictly limiting their use may be necessary to break the cycle of addiction. This may include removing games from devices or using software to limit game access.
- Lifestyle changes: Encourage a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity, a healthy diet, good sleep hygiene and social interaction outside the gaming world.
- Education and awareness: Education about the negative consequences of excessive gambling and strategies to manage the urge to gamble can be an important part of treatment.
- Professional help: In some cases, it may be necessary to seek help from a psychologist, psychiatrist or other health professional who specializes in treating addictions.
It is important to remember that treatment can take time and requires commitment from the individual. Recognizing the problem and seeking help is the first step towards recovery.
Treatment with CBT online
You can get therapy for a gaming addiction online. At Lavendla, all our sessions are online.
From conversation to understanding and change
Talk therapy is often the first step in seeking help. By working with a psychologist or therapist, you can begin to understand your symptoms and triggers, which is essential for long-term change.
The first step to change
Book a 20—or 45-minute session with a psychologist or therapist today via our website booking form. If the time is not right now, remember that you can always come back when you are ready to make a change. Together, we make the hard things easier.
11 FAQs about Video Game Addiction
What is video game addiction?
Video game addiction, also known as gaming addiction, is a condition where a person develops an addiction to video games. This means that the person has difficulty controlling their gaming and continues to play even though it has negative consequences in different areas of life.
Is video game addiction a disease?
Video game addiction is not an official medical diagnosis. Regardless of whether it is a diagnosis, it can be a problem behaviour for which you may need help.
Can video game addiction be cured?
Any type of addiction can be treated, but it often requires care and support. It is possible to change your patterns and improve your quality of life.
What are the signs that I may be addicted to video games?
The signs of video game addiction are finding it difficult to control gaming times and continuing to play despite the negative impact on life.
What are the risks of video game addiction?
Potential risks include problems with physical and mental health, studies, and relationships. If you have this problem, it is advisable to seek help.
How can I help a family member who is addicted to video games?
The first step is to offer your support, encourage them to seek professional help and stand by them during treatment. If you find the problem difficult to understand, seek information about it. If you are a parent of a young person, you may need more support.
What treatment options are available?
Several different treatment types include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Can you have other mental health problems at the same time as being addicted to video games?
There may be underlying mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem and loneliness.
What resources are available?
In addition to our professional therapists and psychologists, many websites, books, and support groups can offer additional information and support.
Can video game addiction be treated online?
Yes, all our therapists’ and psychologists’ sessions are online via video conferencing.
How important is the support system around a person with video game addiction?
A support system is usually crucial for a successful recovery. This includes professional help with treatment and a good support system. It can help reduce the risk of relapse and help the person maintain a healthier lifestyle.
Treatment steps to improve quality of life
Treatment for gaming addiction is multi-faceted and individualized to avoid relapse. Here are the main components of a treatment plan for a gaming addiction:
- Evaluation and diagnosis: Treatment usually begins with a comprehensive psychologist or psychiatrist evaluation. During the evaluation phase, the therapist aims to understand the extent of the addiction, identify any additional mental health conditions, and assess the individual’s overall physical and mental health.
- Individual therapy: Therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are effective in treating gaming addictions. They can help individuals identify and change behaviours and thought patterns that contribute to their compulsive need to game, as well as develop coping strategies to deal with triggers, stress anxiety and depression.
- Family therapy and counselling: Family dynamics are often affected, and family therapy can be vital to the treatment. This helps the family to understand the addiction and how they can support the affected person. The family will also learn how to manage conflict and improve communication.
- Support groups and community: Participation in support groups such as Gamers Anonymous or other self-help groups can offer additional support. Sharing experiences and strategies with others who have similar problems can be very helpful.
- Digital detox and behavioural changes: It may be recommended that the individual take a “digital detox”, which means a break from all digital devices for a certain period. During this time, the individual learns to find and engage in other activities outside the digital space.
- Lifestyle changes: It is important to encourage and establish a healthy lifestyle. This includes establishing a balanced eating routine, regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, and social activities.
- Medical treatment: If there are concurrent mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety, medical treatment can be prescribed by a doctor.
- Follow-up and relapse prevention: After completing initial treatment, regular follow-up is important to prevent relapse. A therapist can continue working with the individual to reinforce the skills learned during treatment and help them deal with challenges.
It is important to remember that each individual is unique and treatment should be tailored to their needs. Treatment time can vary depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s commitment to the treatment process.
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