Gaming addiction

Gaming addiction, also known as gaming disorder or video game addiction, refers to the excessive and compulsive use of video games that leads to negative consequences in various areas of life. It is characterised by a loss of control over gaming, prioritising gaming over other activities and responsibilities, and continuing to engage in gaming despite negative consequences.

Here are some frequently asked questions about gaming addiction:

Q: What causes gaming addiction? A: Gaming addiction can have various underlying causes. It may be influenced by factors such as individual susceptibility, social and environmental factors, the design and features of video games (e.g., reward systems, social interaction), and psychological factors (e.g., escapism, coping mechanism).

Q: What are the signs and symptoms of gaming addiction? A: Signs of gaming addiction may include:

Preoccupation with gaming, thinking about previous gaming sessions or anticipating the next one.
Difficulty controlling the amount of time spent on gaming.
Neglecting or losing interest in other activities and hobbies.
Withdrawal symptoms when not playing games, such as irritability, restlessness, or moodiness.
Neglecting personal hygiene, sleep, or meals due to excessive gaming.
Decline in school or work performance.
Continued gaming despite negative consequences on relationships, physical health, or mental well-being.

Q: How is gaming addiction diagnosed? A: Gaming addiction can be diagnosed by mental health professionals using criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It typically involves assessing the severity of the gaming behaviours and the impact on different areas of life.

Q: How is gaming addiction treated? A: Treatment for gaming addiction often involves a combination of approaches, including:

Psychotherapy: Individual or group therapy can help address underlying psychological and emotional factors contributing to addiction.
Behavioural interventions: Developing strategies to manage gaming behaviour, setting limits, and establishing healthier routines.
Family support: Involving family members in therapy to improve communication, set boundaries, and support the individual’s recovery.
Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage underlying mental health conditions that contribute to addiction.

Q: How can gaming habits be managed in a healthy way? A: To maintain healthy gaming habits, it can be helpful to:

Set limits on gaming time and take regular breaks.
Engage in a variety of other activities and hobbies.
Maintain a balanced lifestyle with sufficient sleep, exercise, and social interactions.
Monitor and regulate the types of games played and their content.
Seek support from friends, family, or support groups to maintain accountability and balance.

It’s important to remember that seeking professional help from a mental health provider is crucial for proper diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of gaming addiction.

What is a gaming addiction?

Gaming addiction, also known as gaming disorder or video game addiction, refers to a behavioural addiction characterised by excessive and compulsive gaming habits that interfere with various aspects of a person’s life. It is recognised as a mental health condition by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and can have significant negative consequences on an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being.

Gaming addiction involves a loss of control over gaming behaviours, where the person is unable to limit or stop their gaming despite experiencing negative consequences. They may prioritise gaming over other important activities such as school, work, relationships, and self-care. The addiction often leads to a disruption in daily routines, impaired functioning, and a preoccupation with gaming.

Common signs and symptoms of gaming addiction may include:

Preoccupation with gaming: Constantly thinking about previous gaming sessions or anticipating the next opportunity to play.
Loss of control: Being unable to limit the time spent on gaming or repeatedly failing in attempts to reduce or stop gaming.
Neglecting other activities: Neglecting or losing interest in other hobbies, relationships, responsibilities, or self-care activities due to excessive gaming.
Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing restlessness, irritability, moodiness, or other negative emotions when not able to engage in gaming.
Escalation of gaming: Needing to spend increasing amounts of time gaming to achieve the same level of excitement or satisfaction.
Gaming despite negative consequences: Continuing to game even when it leads to negative consequences, such as problems with relationships, academic or occupational performance, or physical health.

Gaming addiction can have various underlying causes, including psychological factors (e.g., using gaming as an escape or coping mechanism), social factors (e.g., seeking social interaction through online gaming communities), and game-related factors (e.g., the design and features of video games that promote addictive behaviours).

It’s important to note that not everyone who plays video games excessively has an addiction. Gaming becomes problematic when it interferes with daily life and causes significant distress or impairment. If you or someone you know is struggling with gaming addiction, seeking professional help from a mental health provider or addiction specialist is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How much gaming per day is an addiction?

The amount of gaming per day that qualifies as an addiction can vary depending on the individual and their specific circumstances. There is no universally agreed-upon threshold for the number of hours of gaming that defines an addiction. Instead, the diagnosis of gaming addiction is typically based on the impact it has on a person’s life and their inability to control or stop their gaming habits despite negative consequences.

However, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) suggests that gaming behaviour may be considered problematic if it meets the following criteria within a 12-month period:

Impaired control: The person is unable to control the onset, frequency, intensity, duration, or termination of their gaming sessions.
Escalation: The person needs to spend increasing amounts of time on gaming to achieve the desired level of excitement or satisfaction.
Continuation despite negative consequences: The person continues to engage in gaming despite experiencing negative consequences in various areas of life, such as relationships, work or education, and physical or mental health.
Preoccupation: The person is preoccupied with gaming, often thinking about gaming even when not actively playing.
Withdrawal symptoms: The person experiences restlessness, irritability, or other negative emotions when attempting to reduce or stop gaming.

It’s important to remember that the diagnosis of gaming addiction should be made by qualified mental health professionals based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s behaviours, symptoms, and functional impairment.

If you are concerned about your own gaming habits or those of someone you know, it can be helpful to reflect on the impact gaming has on various aspects of life, including relationships, work or education, physical health, and mental well-being. Seeking professional help from a mental health provider or addiction specialist can provide a more accurate evaluation and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

How do I get rid of a gaming addiction?

Overcoming a gaming addiction can be challenging, but with determination and support, it is possible to regain control of your gaming habits. Here are some strategies that can help:

Recognise and admit the addiction: Acknowledge that you have a gaming addiction and understand the negative impact it has on your life. Acceptance is the first step towards change.
Set goals and make a plan: Define your goals for reducing or eliminating gaming from your life. Create a specific and realistic plan that includes setting limits on your gaming time and gradually reducing it over time.
Establish a support system: Share your goals with supportive friends, family members, or a support group. Having a network of people who understand and encourage your efforts can provide invaluable support during your recovery journey.
Create a balanced schedule: Fill your time with a variety of activities beyond gaming. Engage in hobbies, exercise, socialise, pursue personal interests, or learn new skills. Finding alternative activities that bring you joy and fulfilment can help reduce the urge to game excessively.
Set boundaries and remove triggers: Establish clear boundaries around gaming, such as designated gaming-free days or specific time periods for gaming. Remove gaming triggers from your environment, such as uninstalling games from your devices or keeping gaming consoles out of sight.
Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Identify healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, boredom, or negative emotions that may have previously driven you towards gaming. Explore activities like mindfulness, meditation, exercise, or creative outlets that can help you relax and reduce the desire to game.
Seek professional help: Consider reaching out to a mental health professional who specialises in addiction or gaming disorder. They can provide personalised guidance, support, and therapy to address the underlying factors contributing to your addiction.
Practice self-care: Prioritise self-care activities that promote your overall well-being, such as getting enough sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Practice digital detox: Take breaks from screens and digital devices. Disconnecting from technology for designated periods can help break the cycle of gaming addiction and allow you to explore other aspects of life.

Remember, overcoming addiction is a process that takes time and effort. It’s important to be patient and kind to yourself during the journey. Celebrate your progress, seek support when needed, and stay committed to your goals.

Where to seek help

If you are seeking help for gaming addiction in the UK, there are several resources available to support you. Here are some options to consider:

National Health Service (NHS): The NHS provides mental health services across the UK. You can start by contacting your local GP (general practitioner) who can provide guidance, make an assessment, and refer you to appropriate services or specialists in your area.
NHS Mental Health Services: The NHS offers a range of mental health services that may include specialised addiction services or clinics. They can provide assessment, counselling, therapy, and treatment options for gaming addiction.
NHS Digital Wellbeing: The NHS provides resources and information on digital wellbeing and managing screen time. They offer practical tips, advice, and strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between online activities and other aspects of life.
Game Quitters: Game Quitters is an online support community specifically designed to help individuals overcome gaming addiction. They offer forums, resources, and a supportive community where you can connect with others facing similar challenges.
Counselling and Therapy Services: Consider reaching out to private therapists or counselling services that specialise in addiction or gaming disorder. They can provide individualised treatment plans, counselling sessions, and support tailored to your specific needs.
Online Resources: Explore online resources and self-help tools that provide information and strategies for managing gaming addiction. Websites such as “Game Quitters,” “UK Addiction Treatment Centres,” and “NHS Digital Wellbeing” offer valuable information, advice, and self-help resources.
Support Groups: Joining support groups, either in-person or online, can provide you with a supportive community of individuals who understand your struggles with gaming addiction. These groups can offer guidance, encouragement, and a space for sharing experiences and coping strategies.

Remember, seeking help is an important step towards recovery. You can start by contacting your GP or exploring the resources mentioned above. They will be able to provide you with further guidance and direct you to appropriate services in your local area.