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How to Help Someone With Gaming Addiction

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Gaming addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), is a complex behavioral issue that has gained significant attention in recent years. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially recognized “gaming disorder” in the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), highlighting the growing concern surrounding excessive gaming habits.

Understanding Gaming Addiction

According to the WHO, gaming disorder is characterized by a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behavior, either online or offline, manifested by three key criteria:

  1. Impaired control over gaming (e.g., onset, frequency, intensity, duration, termination, context)
  2. Increasing priority given to gaming to the extent that it takes precedence over other life interests and daily activities
  3. Continuation or escalation of gaming despite the negative consequences

For a diagnosis to be made, this behavior pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, typically over a period of at least 12 months.

The chart below illustrates the prevalence of video game addiction among students from grades 3 to 12 based on a National Library of Medicine article. The data reveals a clear trend of increasing addiction rates as students progress through school years.

Level of gaming among students from Grade 3 to Grade 12

Many people including students can play video games extensively without developing problematic behaviors. The key distinction lies in the negative impact on various life aspects and the inability to control gaming habits.

Main Causes of Gaming Addiction

The development of gaming addiction is multifaceted, involving a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors.

Biological and Psychological Factors

Biologically, dopamine release during gaming creates a reward cycle, while genetic predisposition and differences in brain structure may increase susceptibility.

Psychologically, gaming can serve as escapism from real-world problems. Low self-esteem, pre-existing mental health conditions, and poor impulse control can also increase the risk of developing addictive gaming behaviors.

Social Factors

Social factors significantly influence gaming addiction. Social isolation may drive individuals to seek connection in online gaming communities. Peer influence and family dynamics can shape gaming habits.

Gaming addiction typically results from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social influences, requiring comprehensive prevention and treatment approaches.

What Are the Signs of Gaming Addiction

Identifying gaming addiction involves observing behavioral changes and their impact on daily life. Key indicators include:

SignDescription
Preoccupation with gamingConstantly thinking about gaming, even when not playing.
Neglect of responsibilitiesFailing to complete schoolwork, chores, or other obligations due to gaming.
Changes in sleep patternsA study found that 5th grade students with addiction symptoms reported not getting enough sleep due to gaming.
Social withdrawalPreferring gaming over social interactions. In 6th grade, playing video games instead of spending time with others was a top priority for some students.
Mood changesBecoming irritable or anxious when unable to play.
Main signs of gaming addiction

The prevalence of these signs increases with age as the above study revealed that by 12th grade, 5.63% of students suffered from gaming addiction, while 71.83% were at risk.

Approaching Gaming Addiction with Empathy and Understanding

When addressing concerns about gaming addiction with a loved one, it’s crucial to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. This can help create an environment where open, honest communication is possible. Here are some key strategies:

  • Create a safe space: Choose a calm, private setting where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
  • Express concern, not judgment: Focus on specific behaviors and their impacts, rather than criticizing the person.
  • Practice active listening: Give them a chance to express their feelings and perspectives without interruption.
  • Offer support: Let them know you’re there for them and willing to help them find solutions.
  • Set boundaries together: Collaborate on establishing clear expectations and consequences for excessive gaming.

Remember, recovery from gaming addiction is a process. The study found that even in 6th grade, 73% of students were at risk of addiction. By approaching the situation with empathy and understanding, you can play a crucial role in supporting your loved one’s journey towards healthier gaming habits.

Strategies for Helping Those with Gaming Addiction

Overcoming gaming addiction requires a multi-faceted approach addressing underlying causes and providing support for lasting change.

An important thing to note is that the approach will vary significantly depending on whether you’re helping a friend or a family member like your child, sibling, or partner.

How to Help a Friend with Gaming Addiction

Supporting a friend with gaming addiction requires a compassionate approach. Express concerns privately using “I” statements to avoid accusation. Be a good listener without judgment and offer alternative activities to break the gaming cycle. Encourage seeking professional help if they’re receptive, offering to assist in finding resources or accompanying them to support groups.

How to Help a Family Member with Gaming Addiction

Addressing gaming addiction within the family requires a unified and supportive approach. Start by holding a family meeting to discuss the issue openly, ensuring everyone has a chance to express their concerns and feelings. Work together to establish clear family guidelines about gaming time and usage, such as designated gaming hours or tech-free zones in the house.

How to Help Your Partner with Gaming Addiction

Helping a partner with gaming addiction requires a delicate balance of support and boundary-setting. Open, honest communication is crucial – express your concerns lovingly, but firmly. Work together to establish agreed-upon gaming limits and create shared activities that don’t involve screens. Encourage your partner to seek professional help, offering to attend therapy sessions together if they’re comfortable.

Support Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Whether you’re helping a friend, coworker, or family member overcome gaming addiction, it’s crucial to promote overall well-being.

  • Promote physical activity: Encourage regular exercise to reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a healthy outlet for energy. This could include:
    • Daily walks or jogs
    • Joining a sports team or fitness class
    • Trying yoga or meditation for stress relief
  • Encourage healthy sleep habits: Help establish a consistent sleep schedule by:
    • Setting a regular bedtime and wake-up time
    • Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
    • Avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed
  • Support balanced nutrition: Promote a healthy diet to improve overall well-being:
    • Encourage regular, nutritious meals
    • Suggest healthier snack alternatives to those often consumed while gaming
    • Emphasize the importance of staying hydrated
  • Foster social connections: Help build a support network outside of gaming:
    • Encourage participation in social activities or clubs
    • Suggest volunteering opportunities
    • Plan regular face-to-face meetups with friends and family

By supporting these healthy lifestyle choices, you can help create a balanced routine that reduces the urge to game excessively and promotes overall well-being.

Encourage Professional Help

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp offer convenient access to licensed therapists specializing in addiction. Support groups, both in-person and online, provide a sense of community and practical coping strategies.

Of course don’t forget to set realistic goals with gradual gaming reduction and fun alternatives. Keep the conversation open, supportive, and judgment-free. If needed, consider seeking therapy for teens or couple therapy to address addiction issues and learn strategies to support your loved ones recovery as a unit. Remember, patience and consistency are key in this process!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is gaming addiction?

It’s a compulsive pattern of excessive gaming that negatively impacts daily life and relationships.

How can I tell if someone has a gaming addiction?

Look for signs like neglecting responsibilities, prioritizing gaming over other activities, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when unable to play.

How can I help a friend with gaming addiction?

Express concern privately, offer support, and encourage them to seek professional help.

How can I help a family member with gaming addiction?

Hold a family meeting to discuss concerns and establish clear guidelines for gaming time and usage.

How can I support my partner with gaming addiction?

Communicate your concerns openly and honestly, encourage seeking professional help, and set boundaries together.

Author Avatar
Bringing over 15 years of experience to her work, Lorraine is an expert in the areas of anxiety, depression, and family therapy. With her extensive background in psychology and her personal experience, she applies her knowledge of therapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques to compose insightful articles on coping strategies.
Lorraine Banks
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