Gaming Addiction. Help and Treatment. Care and Support.

Gaming addiction

Gaming addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder, refers to a pattern of excessive and compulsive gaming behaviour that leads to significant impairment in various areas of life, including personal, social, academic, or occupational functioning. It is characterised by a loss of control over gaming, preoccupation with gaming, and continued gaming despite negative consequences.

Gaming addiction can have a detrimental impact on an individual’s physical health, mental well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life. It can lead to neglect of important responsibilities, social isolation, sleep disturbances, poor academic or work performance, and even physical health problems.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of gaming addiction is essential. Some common indicators include:

Preoccupation with gaming: Constantly thinking about gaming, planning future gaming sessions, and prioritising gaming over other activities.
Loss of control: Difficulty controlling the amount of time spent gaming and failed attempts to cut back or stop gaming.
Neglecting responsibilities: Neglecting personal, academic, or professional responsibilities in favour of gaming.
Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing restlessness, irritability, or mood swings when unable to play games.
Tolerance: Needing to spend increasing amounts of time gaming to achieve the same level of satisfaction or excitement.
Escapism: Using gaming as a way to escape from or cope with negative emotions, stress, or real-life problems.
Neglected relationships: Neglecting or distancing oneself from family, friends, or social activities due to excessive gaming.
Deceptive behaviour: Hiding or lying about the extent of gaming or engaging in gaming secretly.
Interference with daily life: Experiencing disruptions in sleep patterns, academic or work performance, physical health, or personal hygiene due to excessive gaming.

If you or someone you know exhibits several of these signs and symptoms and experiences significant impairment or distress as a result of gaming, it may be a sign of gaming addiction. Seeking professional help from healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, or mental health professionals who are experienced in gaming addiction can provide an accurate assessment, guidance, and appropriate treatment options.

Gaming addiction treatment typically involves a combination of therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, individual counselling, group therapy, family therapy, and the development of healthier coping mechanisms and alternative activities. The goal of treatment is to regain control over gaming behaviours, address underlying issues, and improve overall well-being.

Gaming Addiction. This is becoming progressively worse amongst teenagers and children. And now with the introduction of more technical games. We are seeing a high amount of adults with a gaming addiction. Gaming addiction is now a recognised illness worldwide.

What is gaming addiction treatment?

Gaming addiction treatment refers to the various interventions and approaches aimed at helping individuals overcome problematic and excessive gaming behaviours. Gaming addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder, is characterised by a persistent and recurrent pattern of gaming that leads to significant impairment or distress.

Here are some common components and approaches used in gaming addiction treatment:

Assessment and evaluation: The treatment process typically begins with an assessment by healthcare professionals or addiction specialists. They evaluate the severity of the gaming addiction, assess any co-occurring mental health disorders, and gather relevant information to create an individualised treatment plan.
Psycho-education: Providing individuals and their families with education about gaming addiction is an essential component of treatment. Understanding the nature of addiction, its impact on mental health and daily functioning, and the potential consequences can help individuals gain insight and motivation for change.
Behavioural therapies: Behavioural therapies are commonly used in gaming addiction treatment to help individuals modify their gaming behaviours and develop healthier habits. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a widely utilised approach that helps individuals identify and challenge maladaptive thoughts and beliefs associated with gaming, develop coping strategies, and improve problem-solving skills. Other behavioural techniques such as motivational interviewing and contingency management may also be employed to support recovery.
Individual counselling: Individual counselling sessions with a therapist or counsellor provide a safe and confidential space for individuals to explore the underlying causes and triggers of their gaming addiction. Counselling helps individuals address psychological and emotional issues, learn healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a personalised plan for reducing gaming and improving overall well-being.
Family therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process can be beneficial, particularly when gaming addiction has strained relationships and caused family conflicts. Family therapy sessions help improve communication, set boundaries, and develop a supportive environment that fosters recovery.
Group therapy and support groups: Participating in group therapy or support groups with peers who have experienced similar gaming addiction can provide a sense of community and support. Sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and learning from others’ perspectives can be valuable in the recovery process.
Skill-building and alternative activities: Treatment for gaming addiction often involves helping individuals develop new skills and engage in alternative activities that promote a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. This may include assisting individuals in exploring new hobbies, sports, social activities, or educational pursuits.
Relapse prevention and aftercare planning: Developing relapse prevention strategies and creating an aftercare plan are crucial for long-term recovery. Treatment providers work with individuals to identify triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and establish a support network. Ongoing support through counselling, support groups, and self-help resources is typically recommended to maintain progress and prevent relapse.

It is important to note that gaming addiction treatment should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs and circumstances. Seeking help from healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, or addiction treatment centres can provide guidance, support, and appropriate resources for gaming addiction treatment. Remember, recovery from gaming addiction is possible with the right support, commitment, and treatment approach.

How do I know if I need Gaming addiction help?

Determining if you need gaming addiction help involves self-reflection and considering various signs and symptoms associated with problematic gaming behaviors. Here are some indicators that may suggest you could benefit from seeking assistance for gaming addiction:

Preoccupation with gaming: You constantly think about gaming, even when you’re not playing. It becomes a dominant focus in your thoughts, and you may find it difficult to concentrate on other tasks or responsibilities.
Loss of control: You struggle to control the amount of time you spend gaming. Despite your intentions to limit or stop gaming, you find yourself repeatedly exceeding self-imposed limits or experiencing difficulty in cutting back.
Neglecting responsibilities: Gaming starts to interfere with your daily responsibilities, such as work, school, relationships, or personal obligations. You may neglect important tasks or deadlines and prioritise gaming over other areas of life.
Escalating time spent gaming: You progressively spend more and more time gaming, to the point where it negatively impacts your sleep patterns, personal hygiene, and overall well-being. You may sacrifice sleep, social activities, or self-care to prioritise gaming.
Loss of interest in other activities: You lose interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies that do not involve gaming. Other areas of your life, such as socialising, physical exercise, or pursuing personal goals, may take a back seat to gaming.
Withdrawal symptoms: When you are unable to play games or are forced to take a break, you experience restlessness, irritability, anxiety, or other withdrawal-like symptoms. These symptoms can subside when you resume gaming.
Continued gaming despite negative consequences: Despite experiencing negative consequences as a result of gaming, such as strained relationships, poor academic or work performance, or declining physical and mental health, you persist in excessive gaming.
Failed attempts to cut back or stop gaming: You have made multiple attempts to reduce your gaming or stop altogether but have been unsuccessful. You may experience strong cravings or a compulsion to continue gaming despite negative consequences.
Relationship difficulties: Your gaming habits have strained your relationships with family, friends, or significant others. Your loved ones express concern about the amount of time you spend gaming, and conflicts may arise as a result.
Emotional and psychological distress: Your gaming behaviour is driven by a need to escape from or cope with emotional or psychological distress, such as anxiety, depression, stress, or loneliness.

If you identify with several of these signs and symptoms and feel that your gaming behaviour has become problematic or is negatively impacting your life, it may be beneficial to seek gaming addiction help. Consulting with healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, or mental health professionals can provide an accurate assessment, guidance, and appropriate treatment options. They can help determine the severity of your gaming addiction and recommend the most suitable course of action to address your specific needs. Remember, reaching out for help is a positive step towards regaining control and improving your overall well-being.

How does Gaming Addiction Treatment Work?

Gaming addiction treatment typically involves a combination of therapeutic interventions and support services aimed at helping individuals overcome problematic gaming behaviours. Here are some common components and approaches used in gaming addiction treatment:

Assessment and evaluation: The treatment process usually begins with an assessment conducted by healthcare professionals or addiction specialists. They evaluate the severity of the gaming addiction, assess any co-occurring mental health disorders, and gather relevant information to create an individualised treatment plan.
Psycho-education: Providing individuals and their families with education about gaming addiction is an essential component of treatment. Understanding the nature of addiction, its impact on mental health and daily functioning, and the potential consequences can help individuals gain insight and motivation for change.
Behavioural therapies: Behavioural therapies play a central role in gaming addiction treatment. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals identify and modify maladaptive thoughts and behaviours associated with gaming addiction. It assists in developing healthier coping strategies, improving problem-solving skills, and addressing underlying issues contributing to addiction. Other behavioural techniques such as motivational interviewing and contingency management may also be employed to support recovery.
Individual counselling: Individual counselling sessions with a therapist or counsellor provide a confidential space for individuals to explore the underlying causes and triggers of their gaming addiction. Counselling helps individuals address psychological and emotional issues, learn healthier coping mechanisms, and develop a personalised plan for reducing excessive gaming.
Family therapy: Involving family members in the treatment process can be beneficial, particularly when gaming addiction has strained relationships and caused family conflicts. Family therapy sessions help improve communication, set boundaries, and develop a supportive environment that fosters recovery.
Group therapy and support groups: Participating in group therapy or support groups with peers who have experienced similar gaming addiction can provide a sense of community and support. Sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and learning from others’ perspectives can be valuable in the recovery process.
Skill-building and alternative activities: Treatment for gaming addiction often involves helping individuals develop new skills and engage in alternative activities that promote a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle. This may include assisting individuals in exploring new hobbies, sports, social activities, or educational pursuits.
Relapse prevention and aftercare planning: Developing relapse prevention strategies and creating an aftercare plan are crucial for long-term recovery. Treatment providers work with individuals to identify triggers, develop coping mechanisms, and establish a support network. Ongoing support through counselling, support groups, and self-help resources is typically recommended to maintain progress and prevent relapse.

It’s important to note that gaming addiction treatment is highly individualised, and the specific components and duration may vary for each person. Seeking help from healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, or addiction treatment centres can provide guidance, support, and appropriate resources for gaming addiction treatment. Remember, recovery from gaming addiction is possible with the right support, commitment, and treatment approach.

Why is gaming addiction a problem

Gaming addiction can cause mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. It is a real addiction and does need addressing. Depression can bring on suicide and self harm. It causes the person playing to neglect the important things in life. In general is it very bad for their wellbeing.

Advancement of gaming

With the advancement of games throughout the world, players can now interact with friends and people they do not know, and build friendships. You no longer need to go anywhere. What with the excitement of the game, and people you are interacting with. Gaming has got very addictive.

People playing these games can now go into a new world, away from boredom and reality and the stresses of real life. With people playing these games, and in most cases for hours. This can seriously effect friend and family relationships, other relationships and marriages.

Who is being effected

On the whole is affects children and teenagers alike. And now more adults. We do get a lot of calls from parents wanting to know a way through this. Being realistic this is parental care. The parents are in control of the internet, and can tern it off. I believe the problem stems from when children are young, and the easiest way to keep them quiet is to give the a phone or an iPad etc. Now sadly you are paying for it. Gaming addiction is no different to any other addiction. They all need treating. If you are struggling with a family member or loved one who has an addiction to gaming, do get in touch. Call 07811 606 606

Brain function

It is widely known teenagers brains function very differently to adults brains. This is partly because teenagers brains are still developing. Plus teenagers have a more emotional brain. Where as adults have a rational brain. Teenagers and children like receiving gratitude regardless of consequence, and gaming gives them this. The gaming manufactures know this and build tire games around gratification, rewards and irrational thoughts.

Signs of gaming addiction

Here is a list of where gaming becomes an addiction. Isolation also plays a big part in most addictions, and gaming is no different.

1/ Not worried about hygiene

2/ Falling behind on school work

3/ Frustrated and anxious

4/ Isolation

5/ No social life

6/ cannot interact easily

7/ preoccupied

8/ playing all night, not sleeping

9/ Lack mod concentration

10/ Not eating

If you or a loved one is showing any signs of gaming addiction, get in touch. Call: 07811 606 606

Does it effect adults

Yes. This can be serious in adults, as it can affect them from working, which in turn affects the families finances. It can effect relationships Work and destroy their social life etc. In fact it is more devastating in adults because of the commitments the have in life.

If you or a loved one have, or think you may have an addiction too gaming. Do get in touch. as we can put you on the right track and advise accordingly. Call: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)