Video games can be fun for people of all ages. People play as a single player or online with other people. Excessive gaming can interfere with relationships, cause emotional problems, and lead to isolation. Excessive or compulsive use of computer games or video games leads to a gaming addiction.
The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on June 18, 2018, “Gaming disorder as a new mental health condition included in the 11th edition of its International Classification of Diseases.” The WHO says the new diagnosis affects individuals who have lost control over their gaming habits, leading them to neglect everything else in their lives, remaining stuck in virtual worlds even as problems in the real world resulting from their addiction become apparent.
Gaming becomes a problem when the player obsesses over playing the next game. He or she constantly thinks about their next gaming experience. Some people who spend a lot of time playing video games thrive on the ability to become the character in a virtual world. Individuals suffering from a video game addiction use the virtual world as an escape from reality. They replace real-world human interaction with people on the Internet.
Deep emotional attachments can be developed through online friends. Some games require players to log in for great lengths of time. The player might feel obligated to play and not disappoint their online friends. A player with excessive gaming will create online characters to alter his or her identity. He or she can suffer from low self-esteem or other negative self-concepts.
Video game addiction can cause fatigue, migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, and poor hygiene. A person with a gaming addiction might avoid eating proper meals or sleeping to continue gaming. This could lead to sleep disorders or diet-related health issues. Relationships are compromised when a person isolates his or herself to continue gaming.
People often have depression in addition to their gaming addiction. Depression or other mental health disorders need to be addressed before treatment for a gaming addiction. Gaming addiction is also linked to drug or alcohol abuse.
Treatment is available for gaming addiction. The first step to recovery is recognizing the problem exists. If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction, get help today.
Cypress Lakes Lodge specializes in addiction treatment and is located in a serene, remote, lush-green, oxygen enriched environment. The program encompasses holistic addiction therapy and offers yoga and meditation for the mind, body, and soul. The focus is on physical, mental, and emotional well-being by generating the balance of life-enriching treatment, wellness, and healthy, sober, sustainable relationships. Call us to get started: 409-331-2204