We are all familiar with gaming. It is enjoyable and effective for stress relief, but anything in excess is hazardous. Without moderation, a gaming addiction can develop, making it tough to overcome.
Since COVID-19, gaming addiction has increased dramatically. This is mostly because, during lockdown, young people discovered a way to pass the time by playing video games. However, because of the stimulation, many young people battle with this addiction. As a result, in this blog, we will learn about the warning signs of addiction, how to prevent it, and how to overcome it.
What Are the Signs of Gaming Addiction?
When someone is addicted to gaming, they will exhibit a variety of symptoms. While gaming in moderation is safe, addiction can be dangerous. Therefore, it is necessary to observe the indicators.
- Withdrawal From Other Interests
One of the most typical indicators of gaming addiction is when a person loses interest in other things and prioritises gaming above all else. One must understand that when someone develops an addiction, they lose control of their thinking.
- Lying About Hours Spent Gaming
When teenagers begin to spend an excessive amount of time gaming, their parents notice and try to limit their screen time. However, it is difficult to keep a check on youngsters at all times, so they try to sneak in additional gaming time.
A gaming addict will always look for an opportunity to play, even if they are restricted. Furthermore, they intend to lie about it. When someone begins to lie about how many hours they spend gaming, it may indicate that they are developing an addiction.
- Excessive Gaming
People who suffer from severe addictions frequently spend days at a time playing video games. As a result, they become lethargic. If someone spends an inordinate amount of time playing video games, it is necessary to establish a time limit before the problem escalates.
- Lack of Control
Many video games are designed to be highly addictive. They offer highly interesting images that stimulate the brain while simultaneously reducing an individual’s attention span.
Such games, such as Pubg, Valorant, and Call of Duty, do an excellent job of keeping users involved through prizes or hard gameplay.
When a player becomes addicted, they lose control over the amount of time they spend gaming, which can be quite detrimental. Many addicts quit taking care of themselves and play games for days on end without caring about their cleanliness.
- Increase In Anxiety & Irritability
Some studies have found that gaming can assist relieve stress and improve decision-making skills. However, research indicates that people with gaming problems experience anxiety and impaired emotional regulation.
Addiction to anything is always a bad sign. This is why people who become hooked to gaming frequently exhibit symptoms of anxiety and anger.
When a person with an addiction is separated from gaming for an extended period of time, they may exhibit indicators of wrath, irritability, or agitation.
If you see the majority of these symptoms, you should get advice from a professional who can better advise you.
3 Preventive Measures To Avoid Gaming Addiction
Now, let’s look at some techniques to avoid acquiring a gaming addiction.
1) Set Time Limits
Set a time limit for yourself and stick to it when gaming. Nowadays, phones include settings that allow you to establish a time restriction for a certain app; use these settings to guarantee you don’t go over time.
2) Engage In Outdoor Activities
Make time for outdoor activities in your daily routine, even if it’s as easy as taking a walk at a nearby park. Physical activity will help you lessen the likelihood of acquiring a gaming addiction. Furthermore, it benefits both your mental and physical health.
3) Follow A Routine
If you’re concerned about establishing a gaming addiction, try creating a regimen for yourself to follow. The regimen should include productive labor, rest periods, and recreational activities. It helps to keep your mind off the temptation of gaming.
How Can I Overcome a Gaming Addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with a game addiction, the best course of action is to seek treatment from a professional. However, there are a few things you may do to help someone during this time.
- Set A Strict Time Limit
For someone suffering from gaming addiction, limiting gaming can induce significant withdrawal symptoms. As a result, rather than denying an addict of their time, you should gradually diminish it. For example, if someone plays for 12 hours a day, reduce it to 8, and then lower it gradually.
While some people can overcome addiction with the help of friends and family, others may require professional assistance as well. As a result, it is critical to remember that if people continue to slip into a pattern of addiction despite numerous failed attempts, finding professional help is strongly recommended.
- Provide A Support System
When someone is struggling from addiction, it is critical to be supportive and empathetic. Find methods to spend more time with them and chat to them, be willing to calmly listen to them when they share, and avoid giving advice.
People are often hesitant to seek professional aid. If this is the case, attempt to talk to them and assure them that it is acceptable to seek treatment. However, you should avoid pressing them because they may withdraw from the conversation.
- Indulge In Other Activities
Keeping occupied and engaging in other activities can be beneficial throughout an addiction. Try to help an addict by distracting them with activities such as journaling, creating, jogging, gardening, dancing, etc. Participating in activities can assist kids distract themselves from their desire to play video games.
Also Read: Exploring the Benefits of Gaming: 10 Ways It Helps You
Conclusion
Gaming has various advantages when done in moderation. However, excessive gaming can result in an addiction. Since Covid-19, the prevalence of gaming addiction has grown. It is critical to watch for indicators of addiction, such as withdrawal from other activities, lying about game time, excessive gaming, a lack of self-control, and an increase in anxiety and irritation when deprived of gaming.
Dealing with addictions can be difficult. As a result, it is critical to implement preventive measures such as setting a time limit for gaming, participating in outdoor activities, and sticking to a routine. However, if someone has already developed an addiction, it is important to assist them by obtaining expert therapy. When an addict is afraid to get assistance, you can help them by calmly listening and being there for them.
Anshuman Jha