When Gaming Becomes an Addiction

Gaming has become a popular activity among the younger and older generation. According to recent data, there are 1.7 billion male gamers compared to 1.4 billion female gamers. That accounts for 2.47 billion adult gamers. A majority of these people qualify for problem gaming.

Video games are addicting for those who can't control their habits. They could be at risk of losing everything. Gaming is already risky since it rewards the brain, resulting in a desire that makes the individual want to do it more. 

Problem gamers feel on edge when they're not playing or winning. They could cash out their 401K or max out their credit cards to feed their addiction. They could hide or steal money to play more games. When they lose, they feel desperate and hopeless.

They play more video games to get that rush back. Gamers continue this downward spiral to recover from their losses. It's a vicious cycle they can't get themselves out of. Their addiction could cause them to lose their career, family, and relationships. It can also lead to substance abuse and other mental health problems. 

Seeking Help and Treatment

If you exhibit the signs of a video game addiction, you should speak with a mental health professional who specializes in this behavioral addiction. Other options include support groups, video game addiction hotlines, and treatment centers.

The most common treatment for video game addiction is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which changes the behaviors, thoughts, and patterns that contribute to problem gambling. 

Medication can also treat the compulsive and obsessive behavior that comes with behavioral addiction. You might also be prescribed medication to help treat your anxiety and depression. 

Escitalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that treats mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. 

Find Treatment Near You

Finding the right treatment facility in your area is paramount to your recovery. Whether you or someone you know is a video game addict, an online directory or hotline can make the process of finding the right treatment center as easy as possible. 

The first step is calling the National Alliance on Mental Illness (1-800-950-6264), via chat or text. You’ll receive information on inpatient and outpatient treatment centers in your area. You can also visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness website for a full list of treatment centers. 

Types of Treatment

Most video game addicts can recover on their own due to the plethora of available books and self-help treatment options. However, some people need to treat their gaming addiction in a safe environment.

The average age for video game addiction is 24 years old is when they also seek treatment for their problem. Since video game addiction manifests differently in various people, varying approaches may work for some and not for others. 

Counseling can help families and couples understand how video game addiction affects them and their loved ones. It can also encourage addicts to explore different options and develop problem-solving skills. 

Support is crucial for an addict's recovery from problem gaming. Still, the individual must desire to recover from problem gaming. Those who don't have the support of their friends and family can join the Gaming Addicts Anonymous support group. 

Outpatient care

Outpatient care allows patients to stay overnight in a hospital, clinic, or urgent care center. It provides various types of treatment, including counseling, group therapy, and psychiatry. 

Treatment can range from short-term to long-term and includes ongoing therapy and medication. Patients must attend the regularly scheduled sessions to make the most of their recovery. 

However, it’s different from inpatient care in which they can leave the facility for work or school. Outpatient care is an ideal choice for patients who don’t need around-the-clock care. There are many benefits to outpatient care, including affordability, flexibility with schedules, and a wide network of providers. 

This approach only works for patients who want to learn how to cope with stressors in their environment. It can also help those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems that stem from their video game addiction. 

How do I select a residential treatment facility?

Finding the help you need for yourself or a loved one can be difficult. When researching a residential treatment facility, it’s important to have an understanding of this behavioral addiction and what is needed to achieve sobriety. 

The best course of action is to ask around and do your research. Ask a trusted colleague or professional who might have a suggestion. You should also consider some of the following questions in your research:

• The types of treatments the facility offers. Do they offer CBT, DBT, or a combination of therapy and medication?

• Does the facility offer family therapy or couples counseling? 

• Are they licensed? Is their license still in good standing? 

• How long has the facility been in operation? 

• Does the staff have licensed professionals? Are their licenses in good standing? 

• Where is the facility located? Is it possible to travel there and do they offer transportation? 

• Is the website up to date? Does it provide up-to-date information? Are there bios with credentials and experience?  

Get help for your video gaming addiction. Take the video game assessment on Birches Health. It’s 100% free and confidential. You’ll receive online treatment for your specific problem. 

Resources:

How Many Gamers Are There? (2024 Statistics)

Game over: When video games become a problem

Symptoms, Mechanisms, and Treatments of Video Game Addiction

Why do adults seek treatment for gaming (disorder)? A qualitative study