Video Game Addiction Treatment: Doctor’s Recommendations

Do you love playing video games, but sometimes find it hard to stop? You’re definitely not alone. Video game addiction, also known as internet gaming disorder, is a real condition that affects many people worldwide. It’s when you lose control over your gaming habits, leading to negative consequences in different areas of your life, like your relationships, school, and work.

This addiction can include playing games on the internet or any electronic device, but most people with significant gaming issues mainly play online. Some researchers compare video game addiction to gambling disorder because the excitement of winning becomes a major reason for playing.

However, others argue that the two are not the same, as there may not be financial losses involved in gaming, and winning a video game often requires cognitive skills and quick reflexes. Regardless of this debate, when any activity becomes so consuming that it negatively affects your daily life, it’s essential to seek help as video game addiction treatment is a long and complex process.

In this article, we’ll explore the main signs, triggers, and symptoms of game-playing dependence and provide recommendations from doctors on how to stop video game addiction.

Understanding Video Game Addiction

To begin with, video game addiction is when someone has difficulty controlling how much time they play video games, prioritizing gaming over other real life, and continuing to game despite negative consequences.

This addiction is classified as a behavioral disorder and is not officially approved as a mental health disorder by the American Psychiatric Association (APA). Nevertheless, experts believe that video games can extremely be addictive due to their immersive experiences and the release of pleasurable chemicals, like dopamine, in the brain while gaming.

How To Spot A Gamer: Main Video Game Addiction Signs

To differentiate between casual gamers and those with addiction, we need to understand the signs of video game addiction. Some common symptoms include:

• being preoccupied with playing video games
• having trouble cutting down on gaming
• using games to cope with unwanted emotions
• losing interest in other activities, lying about gaming habits
• risking important opportunities for gaming
• experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not gaming

If you or someone you know shows these signs, it might be time to seek help.

Why is Playing Video Games Bad?

Playing video games can become harmful when it starts negatively impacting your life. Excessive gaming can lead to problems in relationships, work, and school. It can also affect your physical health, leading to issues like sleep disturbances, eye strain, and a sedentary lifestyle. Additionally, spending too much time gaming might cause you to neglect other important activities and responsibilities.

Is It Similar to Internet Addiction Disorder?

Internet Addiction Disorder (IAD) is closely related to video game addiction. IAD involves excessive internet usage that interferes with daily life and causes distress. Since many video games are played online, the line between video game addiction and IAD can sometimes be blurry. Both conditions share similar symptoms, such as preoccupation with online activities and withdrawal when not online.

What Causes Video Game Addictions?

Let’s delve into the primary factors that contribute to people becoming addicted to video games. Researchers strongly suggest that the elevated levels of dopamine in the brain’s reward center play a vital role in this phenomenon.

Dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, is released during enjoyable activities like eating or using certain drugs. In the context of gaming, this heightened dopamine response can lead to addictive behaviors. Additionally, the addictive nature of gaming involves a psychological aspect, wherein compulsive gamers turn to video games as an escape from real-life issues and negative emotions they might be facing.
Furthermore, specific personality disorders or disabilities, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and Asperger’s, may heighten an individual’s vulnerability to gaming addiction.

Main Triggers

Let’s discuss the main reasons people become addicted to video games in detail:

• Dopamine Release

Video games trigger the release of dopamine in the brain’s reward system, leading to pleasurable feelings that encourage repetition of the behavior.

• Escapism

Gamers may use video games as a means to escape from real-life stress, problems, or negative emotions.

• Social Interaction

Multiplayer online games provide a sense of community and social interaction, making individuals more engaged and invested in playing.

• Achievements and Rewards

Advancements, achievements, and rewards in games can create a sense of accomplishment and motivate players to continue playing.

• Competition

Competitive gaming can be highly stimulating, with players striving to improve their skills and win, leading to addictive behavior.

• Sense of Control

Video games provide a sense of control and mastery, allowing individuals to escape feelings of powerlessness in real life.

• Immersive Experience

The immersive and interactive nature of video games can captivate players and keep them engaged for extended periods.

• Social Pressure

Peer influence and the desire to fit in with gaming communities may contribute to excessive gaming.

• Time Fillers

Video games can serve as time-fillers or coping mechanisms for those lacking other meaningful activities or facing boredom.

• Escalation

Over time, individuals may become desensitized to the effects of gaming, leading to increased gaming time to maintain the same level of excitement.

Understanding these reasons can help raise awareness and develop effective strategies to prevent and address video game addiction.

Understanding the Symptoms of Gaming Addiction

Gaming addiction can have significant impacts on personal relationships and academic/work performance. Whether someone is addicted to single-player or multiplayer video games, the emotional and social symptoms can be concerning. In the integration with our partners, we have created this short video to show you those video gaming addiction symptoms you might be familiar with.

Effects on Personal Relationships and Academic/Work Performance

• Impaired Work and Academic Performance

Addiction to video games can lead to a decline in work or academic performance. People may find it challenging to focus on their responsibilities or schoolwork because they are preoccupied with gaming.

• Detachment from Friends and Family

Addicted gamers may become isolated and detached from their loved ones to free up more time for gaming. This can strain relationships and lead to feelings of loneliness.

• Mood Changes and Restlessness

Gaming addiction can result in mood swings and irritability, especially when the person is unable to play. It can be similar to withdrawal symptoms seen in other addictive behaviors.

Understanding Common Excuses and Denial Mechanisms

People with gaming addiction may come up with excuses to justify their excessive gaming habits. Some common excuses include claiming that gaming helps them relax or cope with stress, that it’s just a temporary phase, or that they can quit playing games anytime they want.

Denial mechanisms may prevent addicted gamers from realizing the severity of their addiction, making it challenging to seek help.

The Role of Family and Friends

Family and friends play a crucial role in recognizing and intervening in gaming addiction. They can observe behavioral changes and mood swings and may notice the person neglecting important responsibilities or hobbies.

If loved ones suspect gaming addiction, they should approach the individual with empathy and concern, encouraging open communication about their gaming habits. Support from family and friends can be instrumental in helping addicted gamers acknowledge their addiction and seek appropriate treatment.

How to Break a Video Game Addiction?

If you find that video games are becoming a problem for you, there are steps you can take to regain control of your gaming habits and find a healthier balance in your life.

Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations for Recovery

• Limit Your Gaming Time. Set specific limits on when and how long you can play video games each day. For example, you might decide to play for only one hour per day or only on weekends.
• Follow Through with Consequences. Stick to the limits you set and have consequences in place if you break them. This will help you stay accountable for your gaming habits.
• Prioritize Responsibilities. Make sure to complete all your daily responsibilities, such as schoolwork or chores, before indulging in gaming.

Implementing Strategies to Reduce Gaming Time Gradually

• Have “gaming detox”.Take a break from gaming for several days or a week to help break the habit and reduce your dependence on video games.
• Explore Other Hobbies. Engage in other hobbies or activities that do not involve gaming. This can help divert your attention and reduce the urge to play.

Identifying and Addressing Underlying Emotional or Psychological Issues

• Understand your triggers. Identify situations or emotions that lead you to seek comfort in video games. Addressing these triggers can help you find healthier ways to cope.
• Seek support. Talk to trusted loved ones or join mutual help groups that focus on overcoming video game addiction.

Adopting Healthier Coping Mechanisms and Alternative Activities

• Develop your daily routine. Establish a healthy daily structure that includes time for physical activity, socializing, and other fulfilling activities outside of gaming.
• Limit your screen time. Remove video games and other triggers from your digital devices and replace them with more positive content.
• Engage in healthy coping skills. Practice healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, meditation, and proper nutrition to deal with stress and negative emotions.

Breaking a video game addiction requires commitment and determination, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to regain control of your gaming habits and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

If you find it challenging to moderate or abstain from video games on your own, Dr. Sack recommends seeking help from a video game addiction specialist to ensure you receive the support and guidance you need for a successful recovery.

Video Game Addiction Treatment Approaches

When it comes to treating video game addiction, various approaches can be effective in helping individuals regain control of their gaming habits and lead a more balanced life.

Behavioral Therapies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has shown promising results in treating video game addiction. CBT helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thinking patterns and develop healthier coping skills. By understanding the triggers and underlying emotions that lead to excessive gaming, CBT can help break the cycle of addiction and encourage healthier behaviors.

Family Therapy

Family therapy involves the participation of parents and other family members to address the addiction as a collective unit. During therapy sessions, family members can openly communicate their concerns and experiences related to the individual’s gaming habits. This open dialogue fosters a better understanding of the addiction’s impact on both the individual and the family as a whole.

Family therapy also helps establish healthy boundaries around electronic use and gaming time. Together, the family can set clear expectations and limits on when and how much the individual can play video games.

Support Groups

Support groups provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals and their families to share their struggles, challenges, and successes throughout the recovery journey. Being surrounded by others who have experienced similar difficulties with video game addiction can create a sense of belonging and empathy.

In support groups, individuals and their families can gain valuable insights, learn coping strategies, and offer encouragement to one another. These groups also serve as a source of motivation and accountability, as participants can celebrate each other’s progress and provide guidance during challenging times.

Role of Medication

In some cases, medications used for treating depression and ADHD may be helpful in managing symptoms of video game addiction. Medications like Bupropion, Escitalopram, Methylphenidate, and Atomoxetine can be prescribed by medical professionals to address underlying mental health issues that may contribute to addiction.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Every individual’s journey to recovery is unique, and it is crucial to develop a personalized treatment plan based on their specific needs and circumstances. Tailoring the treatment approach ensures that the person receives the most appropriate interventions and support to overcome video game addiction.

In addition to therapy and medication, researchers are exploring the use of interactive websites and apps designed to help people limit their internet use. These tools can complement other treatment approaches and provide additional support in managing gaming habits effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, video game addiction treatment involves various effective approaches that can help individuals regain control of their gaming habits and lead a more balanced life. It is crucial to develop personalized treatment plans based on individual needs, ensuring the most appropriate interventions and support are provided.

For those struggling with video game addiction, seeking help is the first step toward recovery. Whether it’s setting limits on gaming time, exploring alternative hobbies, or engaging in therapy sessions, there are practical strategies to quit playing games excessively.

Remember, gaming can be enjoyable when done in moderation, but it should not negatively impact other important aspects of life. With determination, support from loved ones, and professional guidance, individuals can overcome video game addiction and find a healthier balance between gaming and other activities.

It’s never too late to take control and rediscover a fulfilling life beyond playing video games online.