How to Help With a Game Addiction

Gaming, like gambling, drinking, and drug use, is one of many activities in our society that is becoming increasingly recognized for its addictive potential. Video Game Addiction points out that the American Medical Association has not yet classified video and computer game addiction as a mental disorder, but is studying research findings to determine whether this should change with the next update of the (DSM)-IV. Mental health professionals increasingly point to similarities between gambling and computer or video game addiction. Fortunately, help is available for those who develop problem behaviors with regard to gaming.

Things You'll Need

• Counselor or interventionist
• Support group

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Instructions

• 1

  Problem gamers must learn responsible computer use because total avoidance of computers is a near-impossibility.

  Institute and follow a strict no-gaming rule, advises CBS Health Watch. Given the prevalence of computer technology in our lives, avoiding computers will not be possible for those whose gaming habits pose a problem. Like people who struggle with eating disorders, but who cannot avoid food, the key is in learning to manage your use. Limiting the amount of time spent on computer or video games is ineffective, much as limiting drinking is not helpful for alcoholics. Total cessation is the only option.

• 2

  Consult an interventionist, or counseling center that deals with addictive behaviors. The website Telling It Like It Is points out that treatment centers that specialize in video game addiction are available all over the world, including the Netherlands, South Korea and China.

• 3

  On-Line Gamers Anonymous offers both traditional approaches and an online presence.

  Consider a support group. A with other areas of addiction, a 12-step program is available for both problem gamers and their friends and family. In addition to the 12-step approach, On-Line Gamers Anonymous also offers a 12 Principles for Atheists and Agnostics approach. The group also offers an online forum for members. Friends and family can find support through On-LIne Gamers-Anon, also available through the OLGA website.

• 4

  Read books on the subject of addiction, especially with regard to video and computer games. In addition to providing tips on beating this addiction, these books also offer useful information for parents who are concerned about their children's gaming habits.

• 5

  Practice prevention if gaming is not yet a problem in your house. Place the computer in a place where use can be easily monitored. Be aware of warning signs such as devoting time to video or computer games to the exclusion of other activities or obligations, lying about gaming, or irritability when trying to limit gaming or when access to games is curtailed.