Common Signs of Gaming Addiction: How to Recognize the Signs and Take Action
Gaming can be a fun and immersive activity, but when it becomes an obsession, it can start to negatively impact a person’s life. Knowing the signs of gaming addiction or device addiction can help you intervene early and ensure a healthy relationship with gaming.
Here's what to look for:
Neglecting Responsibilities
One of the first red flags of gaming addiction is neglecting personal responsibilities in favor of more gaming time. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 3-4% of gamers worldwide may suffer from gaming disorder, which impacts their ability to fulfill daily obligations like school, work, or social relationships.Emotional Distress When Not Playing
Another indicator of potential gaming addiction is emotional distress when gaming time is interrupted or cut short. A study by the National Institutes of Health found that 41% of gamers who play excessively experience anxiety and irritability when they cannot access their games.
3. Physical Symptoms
Excessive gaming can take a toll on the body. Complaints of headaches, eye strain, or physical exhaustion from long gaming sessions can be signs that gaming is negatively affecting one’s health. The Sleep Foundation reports that 67% of excessive gamers experience sleep disturbances due to late-night gaming sessions.
4. Social Isolation
Gaming addiction often leads to social withdrawal. If the person is increasingly isolating themselves from friends and family or missing social events in favor of gaming, it’s important to address the issue sooner rather than later. Studies indicate that 50% of problematic gamers have reported decreased social interactions (American Psychiatric Association).
If you notice these signs in your loved one, consider talking to them about their gaming habits or visiting the below sites for help.
Game Quitters - www.gamequitters.com
A global support community for gaming addiction recovery with articles, programs, and forums.
Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous (ITAA) - www.internetaddictsanonymous.org
A 12-step program for those struggling with technology and gaming addiction.
OnLine Gamers Anonymous (OLGA) - www.olganon.org
A support community for compulsive gamers and their loved ones.
Center for Internet and Technology Addiction - www.virtual-addiction.com
Research-based information on gaming addiction and digital health
Restart Life -www.restartlife.com
Sources:
World Health Organization (www.who.int)
National Institutes of Health (www.nih.gov)
Sleep Foundation (www.sleepfoundation.org)
American Psychiatric Association (www.psychiatry.org)
This article was human generated with assistance from AI
