How Serious Is Video Game Addiction?

They call it EverCrack for a reason! Along with being blamed for creating serial killers and sexual deviants, video games are now being portrayed as the hot new drug that creeps their way into everyone’s home and destroys the lives of those caught in their clutches. The issue has grown to a point that video game addiction treatment centers have been instituted in parts of Europe and Asia; but how serious can it be?

As my boy Dr. Drew would say, addiction is defined consequences. If you’re unable to cease a behavior despite knowing the negative consequences it might bring, then it’s safe to say that you’re addicted. Much like gambling addiction, video game addiction is regarded as an impulse disorder. This has nothing to do with the game itself, but rather the player’s inability to resist the emotional responses they receive through playing. The repercussions are no different than the effects of a drug addiction–leading to impaired productivity, decrease in health/fitness, strained relationships, or in some cases death by exhaustion.

I know what you’re thinking… “That’s not me. Those guys just need to get a life. I’m not one of those losers.” Maybe you are, maybe you aren’t… Maybe you aren’t yet. What’s important is recognizing the signs so you don’t fall into this trap. Borrowed from this site, I’d like you to see how many of these traits apply to you:

• Do you neglect relationships with your friends and family to spend more time playing video games?
• Do you struggle to keep up with your schoolwork and/or professional responsibilities? (i.e., Have you ever taken a “sick day” to play your favorite game?)
• Do you lie to others about your video game use? Have you ever been criticized by someone close to you for spending too much time playing video games?
• When you’re not playing video games, do you feel angry or depressed? Do you spend your time wishing you could be playing your favorite game?
• Do you get so engrossed in video games that you neglect to eat, sleep, or shower?
• Do you suffer from backaches, dry eyes, or headaches after playing video games? Have you been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome?

While some of these symptoms only apply to some, the first three are very common in most avid gamers. I would have added the following questions:

• How much of your income do you budget toward games?
• Other than work or school, how many hours a week do you spend outside your home?
• How often do you engage in conversation with others on topics other than video games?

These questions aren’t meant to frighten you, unlike some media outlets which intend to further demonize gaming as some parasite designed to further corrupt our already depraved culture. They are however, a warning for those whose escapist hobbies may escalate into a life-hindering vice. I hesitate to use the term “treatment,” but if you would like to curb your gaming habits so that you don’t lose control, the first thing you should do is talk with some of the people who care about you. If you feel like you need some help, it’s as easy as seeking a therapist or counselor. (Ain’t no shame in it!) Preferably one familiar with impulse disorders.

For more information, you can also check out the Video Game Addiction blog.