A mental disorder in which a person has reduced control over gaming habits is called video game addiction (also known as internet gaming disorder). It may negatively affect daily functioning (such as personal, social, educational, and occupational responsibilities). However, there are millions of people who play games, but only a small percentage of them develop video game addiction.
Furthermore, internet and video game addiction should be classified as a mental disorder or addiction, which is debated among researchers. While some of them consider this condition a mental disorder, others think it is a behavioral addiction (similar to a gambling disorder) in which the rush of winning is one of the primary reasons for playing. Regardless of the opinions, any habit or activity that becomes all-consuming negatively affects your daily functioning. If you think you or your child has a video game addiction, immediately contact your healthcare professional.
While this condition occurs mostly among adults, it may also affect children and teens. According to some research, video game addiction impacts about 1.7% to 10% of the United States population. The range is large because of researchers who disagree with the diagnostic criteria for this condition.
Symptoms
Check below the most common symptoms of video game addiction:
- Reduced performance at school, work, or household responsibilities
- Certain withdrawal symptoms (including irritability, anxiety, or sadness when it is not possible to play)
- The need to spend more time playing video games to get the same level of enjoyment
- Gaming makes a person give up previously enjoyed activities or social relationships
- Inability to reduce the time or quit gaming despite the multiple problems it is causing
- Frequent lies to family members and friends about the amount of time you spend playing games
- Problems with personal hygiene
- Sometimes, you are playing games to escape stressful situations at school or work
- Playing games to relieve certain negative moods (including hopelessness, guilt, and others)
Do not hesitate to see a doctor if you or a loved one develops any of the previous symptoms.
Causes
Nowadays, researchers are trying to determine the exact cause of video game addiction. Previously, experts thought that the process of playing and winning video games triggers a release of Dopamine. This is a chemical in the brain that is very important in multiple body functions (such as pleasurable reward and motivation). Moreover, this chemical is also involved in use disorders (including substance use disorder or gambling disorder).
However, some recent studies have shown similarities in the brains of people with substance use disorder and video game addiction.
Risk Factors
While it is not possible to determine the exact cause of the disease, experts have identified some factors that could elevate the risk of developing video game addiction. Examples include:
- Low self-control
- Anxiety
- Impulsivity
- Increasing weekday gaming time
- Gaming community membership
- Offline gaming community meetings
- Spending money on gaming
However, this article does not contain all possible factors that may increase your risk of developing this condition. For more details, discuss it with your healthcare professional.
What Are The Consequences of Video Game Addiction?
People who develop this disorder and ignore the symptoms and do not get treatment may experience some complications. These include:
- Wrist, neck, or elbow pain
- Skin blisters
- Sleep disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
- Obesity, which is an increased risk for peripheral neuropathy and even blood clots
- Social problems
If you or a loved one experiences any of the previous complications, immediately visit a healthcare professional.
How to Prevent Video Game Addiction?
In general, it is not possible to prevent this condition because healthcare providers do not fully understand why it occurs. However, the following tips may help improve the symptoms. For example:
- Avoid gaming devices before bedtime
- Set a strict time limit for daily play
- Seek treatment
- Try other stress-relieving options
- Ask your family and friends for help
Diagnosis
Usually, to diagnose this condition, you may be referred to a mental health professional (such as a psychiatrist or psychologist). Generally, there is some information in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) about video game addiction, which may help diagnose it. Physicians may also ask some questions about the medical history and symptoms.
However, this disorder is mostly diagnosed in severe cases. It means the condition negatively affects personal, family, social, educational, or occupational functioning. Sometimes, video game addiction is diagnosed when these patterns are present for at least one year.
Treatment
One of the most common and effective treatments for people with this disorder is talk therapy (also known as psychotherapy). It involves multiple techniques that may help find and change negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Check below some types of talk therapy:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) – This type of treatment helps adopt healthy thinking patterns and habits.
- Group therapy – This type involves a group of people who discuss and describe their problems together under supervision. Usually, this is an effective treatment for people with video game addiction.
- Family or marriage counseling – It helps educate loved ones about this condition and makes a more stable home environment.
In some cases, people may develop video game addiction due to certain mental disorders. For example, depression, anxiety, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Treating the underlying cause usually helps get rid of the condition. Consult with your healthcare professional for more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should all people who play video games or online games be concerned about developing an addiction to them?
No, because as per studies, only a few percent of people who play video games develop this disorder. In any case, if you play video games, it is recommended to be aware of the amount of time you spend playing, especially if you begin to neglect daily activities (including hygiene, social interactions, and school or work).
When should I see my healthcare provider about video game addiction?
Do not hesitate to see a mental health professional if you suspect you or a loved one has symptoms of this disorder.
What are the effects of video game addiction?
People with video game addiction may also experience some complications if they do not get treatment. These include depression, neck, elbow, or wrist pain, skin blisters, sleep disorders, and others. Ask your healthcare provider if you have any other questions.
