Game addiction

What is a game addiction?

The definition of a game addiction is a type of behavioral addiction that can occur when someone becomes excessively involved in playing video games to the point where it begins to have negative consequences on their life. Gaming is a popular hobby amongst lots of young adults, but can take a wrong turn when it becomes someones core activity of each day.

How do I know my child has a gaming addiction?

For parents and caretakers it’s important to be aware of behavior of your child and what he or she is doing behind its computer. If you’re concerned you or a loved one is developing or has a possible gaming addiction, it’s important to seek treatment. Developing with a game addiction can have severe consequences for the wellbeing and future of a person.

How to recognize a game addiction?

Several signs and symptoms can be signals of a game addiction. Especially with young adults it’s important to be aware of what these are to acknowledge problematic behaviors and react accordingly.

Signs of game addiction

An important sign of a gaming addiction is when someone spends a lot of time gaming on a day and fails to reduce this screen time.

• Preoccupation with video games
• Loss of interest in other activities and social connections
• Inability to control the amount of time spent playing games
• Neglecting responsibilities, such as school or work, due to gaming
• Continuing to play games despite negative consequences, such as relationship problems or health issues
• Irritability or restlessness when unable to play games
• Using gaming as a way to escape from problems or negative emotions

Why are games addictive?

Asking yourself why gaming is so addictive? Triggering reward systems can be pointed out as one of the most important addictive qualities of playing video games. Games often provide rewards, such as points, achievements, or intergame currency, which can stimulate the release of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. This can create a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue playing. Gaming also provides challenges and opportunities for progression. This can create a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue playing in order to reach next levels.

Second reason is social interaction. Multiplayer games provide the opportunity for social interaction and interaction with other players, which can create a sense of community and belonging. Especially when the gamer is getting more and more estranged from real world friends and relatives.

Besides rewards and social interaction, gaming can be a form of escapism. It can provide an escape from real-life problems and stressors, creating a temporary sense of relief and relaxation.

Effects and risks of gaming

Spending a lot of time gaming has its effect on young people. It can take its toll on several areas of life. What are the risk factors of developing a gaming addiction? Risks of gaming are for example:

• Getting more socially isolated and lonely
• Sleeping less hours
• Social fear
• Fighting
• Becoming more aggressive
• Develop a depression
• Poor work and school results
• Bad hygiene
• Creating a negative self-image

Treatment of game addiction

Game addiction can be treated with therapy. Therapy is beneficial to help individuals develop healthy coping mechanisms, address underlying issues contributing to the addiction, and learn how to manage triggers which lead to this type of behavior.

How can we help?

The Grange Youth Clinic offers a unique 8-week program for individuals, and their families. Our professional team of psychologists and other therapists helps them deal with mental health issues as a game addiction. Teaching them how to cope with game addiction hands them vital tools for a new future and healthier family dynamics.

We help young adults identify and break free from struggles that are holding them back in daily life and future possibilities. Empowering their talents and qualities within the treatment gives them – and their family – an honest opportunity and chance to change their course, heading towards an honest, balanced future.

Parents or caregivers are closely involved in the treatment as you’ll join the clinic one week as well. Following a special program where we’ll work on family dynamics and communication. Read more about the program.

Schedule intake interview

The Grange Youth Clinic can help young adults who are struggling with game addiction. Learn more about our treatment here or register for an intake interview below.