Video game addiction, also known as gaming addiction, refers to the inability to control the urge to play video games, leading to negative consequences in everyday life. Video game addiction impacts individuals from all walks of life and often co-occurs with substance use disorders. Whether you struggle with an addiction or know someone who does, learn about video gaming addiction effects and substance abuse by reading this article today!
What Is Video Game Addiction?
Video game addiction is when a person’s gaming habits negatively impact other areas of their life, such as school or work. It can also be dangerous, since many people become addicted to games that involve realistic violence. In fact, research shows that serious gamers can form an association between violent video games and real-life violence—and be more likely to act violently in certain situations.
What Causes Video Game Addiction?
Video game addiction often results from compulsive tendencies of an individual. Compulsive disorders stem from psychological and neurological factors, including genetic predisposition. In many cases, individuals struggling with video game addiction also struggle with depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. These issues can increase one’s risk for video game addiction by creating a need for escape in unhealthy ways.
The Signs of Video Game Addiction and Substance Abuse
You might think that your child’s video game addiction is harmless, but as many parents have realised too late, there can be long-term effects of video game addiction. Not only can addictions impact your child’s grades and health, they can lead to destructive behaviour like drug and alcohol abuse. Be on the lookout for warning signs of addictive behaviours in order to keep your family safe. If you suspect your child or loved one has a problem with video games or substance abuse, contact a professional immediately. The sooner you seek help, the better chance you have at helping your loved one overcome their addiction and get back on track. Here are some warning signs to look out for.
Video Game Addiction Warning Signs
The warning signs of video game addiction include becoming irritable or aggressive when interrupted or unable to play; lying about how much time is spent gaming; feeling depressed and/or antisocial when not allowed to play; and decreasing involvement in other activities that were once enjoyed.
Similarities Between Gaming and Drug Addiction
If a gamer finds himself or herself unable to stop gaming, it could be a sign of addiction. Just like individuals with substance use disorders, those who are addicted to video games may experience withdrawal symptoms when they don’t have access to their drug of choice. These may include irritability, restlessness and dysphoria. Similarly, if you’re trying to help a loved one kick his or her game habit, you may also notice these withdrawal symptoms when your efforts are unsuccessful.
Get Treatment
Getting treatment for gaming and substance addiction will require serious efforts. You can’t stop what you are doing on your own and expect things to change, especially when those behaviours are ingrained in your everyday life. It is easier said than done, but there are ways that you can still enjoy gaming while living a healthy life. If video game addiction is something that you or someone that you love struggles with, it is advised to get professional help at a rehab facility to start your recovery journey today.