Webinar
ML Webinar

Gaming Addiction TEST

28 Apr 2020
30 min
Date aired: Tuesday 28th April, 2020
Guest speaker
Catherine Wilson
Catherine is a Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist at the Bethlem Royal Hospital. She has been involved in medical education throughout her career having first joined Maudsley Simulation in 20
View profile

ntroduction

Gaming addiction, also known as internet gaming disorder, is a growing concern in the digital age. With the widespread availability of video games on various platforms, individuals, particularly younger populations, are spending increasingly more time engaged in gaming activities. While gaming can be a fun and relaxing hobby, excessive and uncontrolled gaming can lead to significant negative impacts on mental, physical, and social well-being.

Symptoms and Signs

Recognizing gaming addiction involves identifying several key symptoms and signs, including:

  1. Preoccupation with Gaming: Constantly thinking about gaming even when not playing.
  2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Feeling restless, irritable, or anxious when unable to play.
  3. Tolerance: Needing to spend more time playing to achieve the same level of satisfaction.
  4. Unsuccessful Attempts to Control: Repeatedly trying to cut down on gaming time without success.
  5. Loss of Interest in Other Activities: Neglecting hobbies, social activities, and responsibilities.
  6. Continued Use Despite Problems: Persisting in gaming despite knowing the adverse consequences.
  7. Deceiving Others: Lying to family members or therapists about the amount of time spent gaming.
  8. Escaping Negative Moods: Using gaming as a way to escape feelings of guilt, anxiety, or depression.
  9. Risking Relationships and Opportunities: Jeopardizing or losing significant relationships, educational or career opportunities due to gaming.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors contribute to the development of gaming addiction, including:

  1. Psychological Factors: High levels of stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.
  2. Social Factors: Lack of social support, loneliness, or peer pressure.
  3. Game Design: Games designed with addictive elements such as rewards, levels, and social interaction.
  4. Personality Traits: Traits such as impulsivity, low self-esteem, and a tendency toward escapism.

Consequences

The impact of gaming addiction can be wide-ranging:

  1. Physical Health: Poor posture, eye strain, sleep disturbances, and lack of physical activity.
  2. Mental Health: Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and stress.
  3. Social Life: Isolation from family and friends, and impaired social skills.
  4. Academic and Professional: Decline in academic performance and job productivity.

Prevention and Treatment

Addressing gaming addiction involves a multi-faceted approach:

  1. Education and Awareness: Raising awareness about the risks and signs of gaming addiction.
  2. Healthy Gaming Habits: Encouraging balanced and controlled gaming practices.
  3. Parental Involvement: Parents setting limits and monitoring gaming activities.
  4. Professional Help: Seeking therapy or counseling for underlying mental health issues.
  5. Support Groups: Joining groups where individuals can share experiences and strategies for managing addiction.
  6. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to gaming.
  7. Digital Detox: Taking breaks from all digital devices to reduce dependency on gaming.

Conclusion

Gaming addiction is a serious issue that can have far-reaching effects on an individual's life. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the causes, and implementing effective prevention and treatment strategies, it is possible to manage and overcome this addiction. It's crucial for individuals, families, and communities to work together to promote healthy gaming habits and provide support for those affected.

4o