Is Online Gaming Addiction Real? Signs and Treatment Options

online gaming addiction

Online gaming has taken off in recent years especially among teenagers and young adults. What begins as a fun way to unwind or have fun with friends can quickly morph into something more serious for some. As screen time increases and day-to-day responsibilities fall off, people often begin to question; can gaming actually be classified as an addiction? You may be surprised to find out that yes, it can be! Recognizing the signs and obtaining help in a timely way, such as professional addiction treatment Melbourne services, can be a world of difference.

Signs of Online Gaming Addiction

Gaming becomes a problem when it starts to interfere with day-to-day responsibilities, as well as one’s ability to function in real life. Here are some potential signs of a gaming problem: 

• Preoccupied with gaming – Always thinking about gaming, when not gaming. 

• Loss of control – Have tried unsuccessfully to reduce or stop gaming. 

• Neglectful of life responsibilities – Choosing gaming over family, work, study, or health. 

• Changes in mood – Experiencing anxiety, irritability, or depression when not engaged in gaming. 

• Social withdrawal – Wanting to spend time with others, but preferring to be connect to others virtually. 

• Sleep deprivation – Staying up all night, or missing out on sleep, to continue gaming. 

• Lying about gaming – Hiding how much you game from others. 

If you recognize any of these signs, you may be dealing with a gaming addiction. Recognizing gaming addiction is an important first step to avoid negative consequences.

Why Does Gaming Become Addictive?

Online games are built for engagement. Features include instant gratification, competition, social aspects, and an escape from real life. It's a continuous cycle of stimulation, so that your brain craves and tolerates more. Over time, you may find that you need to play more frequently or for longer periods of time to feel that sense of satisfaction. 

If an individual is also struggling with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem, they can be more susceptible to using gaming as a coping mechanism. When gaming becomes a means of escape from real life, it can easily become an addiction. 

Treatment Options for Gaming Addiction

The positive aspect here is that help has been sought and found. It is indeed possible to interrupt the cycle and regain control over your life again. Professional addiction treatment Melbourne services will offer evidence-based practices for you that can treat online gaming addiction.

Examples of possible treatments: 

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – this will help identify triggers or stressors and build healthier habits around online gaming.

  
  

• Individual Counselling – one on one counseling can help you to work through the emotional correlates of your addiction to online gaming.

  
  

• Family Therapy – your loved ones are included in your recovery. This could build communication and trust with your loved ones.

  
  

• Digital Detox Plans – screen time is gradually being cut down in an organized supported way.

  
  

• Mindfulness and Stress Management – will provide various techniques in order to cope with your urges and your concentration on other tasks. 

  
  

For many people, a mixture of all these treatments is beneficial. If you are looking for addiction treatment Melbourne options, ensure that you are working with a professional who treats behavioral addictions instead of substance addictions.

Conclusion

Online gaming addiction is real and can affect someone's mental, emotional, social well-being. Online gaming addiction is a serious mental health disorder, and, with the right support and commitment, you can recover from it. Recognising signs of excessive gaming early and seeking professional addiction treatment Melbourne programs could help yourself or someone else lead a more balanced and healthy life.