Playing video games is a popular activity played by millions of people around the world. Although video gaming is seemingly a harmless hobby, video gaming can be addictive and result in various negative physical and mental health consequences in a person’s life. Because video gaming is so common, it can sometimes be difficult to differentiate the line between enjoying video games as a hobby vs someone being addicted to video games. That’s why in this article, you’ll learn about the different signs of video game addiction to look out for in your own life and others.
At CTRLCare, we offer premier behavioral healthcare to teens and young adults who may be struggling with behavioral health issues or problematic technology use, such as video game addiction. We offer a range of therapies to help our clients take back their lives and live a normal, healthier, happier life. If you suspect your loved one is struggling with video game addiction, contact us today to learn more about our mental health treatment center in Princeton, New Jersey.
What is Video Game Addiction?
Millions of people across the world play video games. While the majority of people who play don’t have an addiction, many people either are addicted to video games, or on the path towards becoming addicted.
Video game addiction, otherwise known as internet gaming disorder, is when someone compulsively uses video games to the point that it interferes with other aspects of their life. This could vary depending on the individual.
For example, a teenager who is addicted to video games may experience a decline in school performance due to playing video games, rather than doing homework. Or, someone addicted to video games may miss out on social events as they are busy playing video games, rather than spending time with friends and loved ones.
Sometimes, it can be difficult to differentiate the difference between video game addiction signs vs regular use. The American Psychological Association defines having an internet gaming disorder as presenting at least 5 of the following criteria below over 12 months:
- Gaming preoccupation
- Withdrawal
- Tolerance
- Loss of interest in other activities
- Downplaying Use
- Loss of relationship, education, or career opportunities
- Gaming to escape or relieve anxiety, guilt, or other negative mood states
- Failure to control
- Continued gaming despite psychosocial problems
Common Warning Signs of Video Game Addiction
As mentioned above, there are key criteria to look out for that may determine if someone is struggling with an internet gaming disorder.
However, those criteria are not the only signs of video game addiction. Here are some more specific physical, mental, and behavioral warning signs of video game addiction to look for.
- Not being able to quit or play less.
- Having problems at work, school, or home because of gaming.
- Fatigue
- Migraines from eye strain or intense concentration
- Carpal tunnel syndrome from overuse of the gaming controller or computer mouse
- Poor personal hygiene
- Isolation from others to spend more time gaming
- Feeling bad when you can’t play video games.
If you suspect someone you know may be struggling with video game addiction, be sure to look out for the above symptoms of video game addiction. It can be difficult overcoming any addiction on your own. That’s why if you or someone you know is struggling with video game addiction, it’s crucial to seek professional care to safely and effectively overcome your addiction.
How to Overcome Video Game Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with video game addiction, help is available. Any type of addiction, including video game addiction, can be difficult to overcome all on your own. That’s why going to a behavioral healthcare treatment center specializing in helping clients overcome problematic technology use is essential to regain control over your life.
At CTRLCare, we don’t just help clients struggling with video game addiction; we offer a wide range of treatment options for mental health and unhealthy technology use. Therefore, whether you are struggling with social media addiction, cell phone addiction, or a mental health condition, our compassionate staff is here to help you better manage your symptoms so you can live a happier, healthier life. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you regain control over your life.
