Gaming Addiction | Warning Signs of Addiction, Prevention & Treatment

What Is Gaming Addiction?

Addiction is quickly taking over the US. Many people are getting addicted to substances and alcohol, but recently process addictions are increasingly popular. Some of these addictions that require treatment are eating disorders, porn addiction, internet addiction, and now video gaming addiction.

How serious is video game addiction, and does it have any effect on the brain? Today, gaming addiction has been recognized as a process addiction and comes with potentially adverse effects. Some of the most negative effects of video games include damage to the brain, memory, and even vision.

When Gaming Becomes an Addiction

Compulsive gaming can have adverse effects on a developing brain or body. As a result of a sedentary lifestyle, gaming addiction has led to a public health concern regarding poor posture and weight gain. Additionally, the lack of exercise has led to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. There is also concern regarding difficulties with attention span and concentration. The rapid changes and fast-paced action of video games may also promote a loss of concentration in players. As a result, this may lead to developmental delays, an increase in aggression, or difficulties with social engagement.

Research on Video Games

From the research done on video games, scientists have found that everyone experiences video games differently. For example, those who play massively multiplayer online video games, or MMORPG, tend to become more anti-social in the real world. This is because they are socializing so much online. There are many different types of video games that anyone will be able to find a style of gaming they like.

Now you can play games on your television, computer, tablet, and phone. As a result of the assortment of devices and games, it’s easy to see why gaming addiction has become an issue. In the end, gaming can be both beneficial and harmful; it all depends on the person.

Potential Signs of Gaming Addiction

The individual spends the majority of their free time playing video games. The individual also begins falling behind in educational requirements, missing work, or losing control of daily responsibilities due to gaming. Also, gamers may exhibit a preference for playing video games over spending time with family or participating in other activities. Finally, the individual might show emotional outbursts such as irritability, or when they are unable to play video games.

How to Treat Video Game Addiction

Gaming disorder has become recognized as an official disease by the World Health Organization, more people can seek treatment. So, the great news is that relief is available for someone struggling with gaming disorder. Additionally, compared to drug and alcohol addiction, video game addiction may not appear as severe. However, the family of the individuals grappling with gaming addiction understand the adverse effects of this behavior. If you, or someone you love, need gaming addiction treatment, call our staff today to see the available options.

Call 1–844-I-CAN-CHANGE to speak to one of our experienced and compassionate outreach and admission coordinators today.

Originally published at https://lighthouserecoveryinstitute.com on March 30, 2020.