Many people, drawn to the excitement of online gaming, have seen a pleasurable activity transform into a dependency that consumes much of their time and energy.
Today we will talk about how to detect addiction to online video games. We’ll explore the signs that may indicate that gambling has become a problem and give you tools to identify and address this situation.
Online video game addiction is a behavioral disorder characterized by a compulsive need to play, despite the negative consequences it may have on personal, social and work life. It’s like any other addiction, but instead of a substance, the object of the addiction is an activity: playing online video games.
And, yes, it is true that online video games offer entertainment, social connection and immersive experiences. However, some people may be so attracted to these virtual worlds to the point of neglecting other areas of their life. Why does it happen? Let’s explore a little more below.
What makes video games so addictive?
The answer lies in the way these games interact with our brain. Video games are designed to stimulate the reward system, releasing dopamine each time a goal is reached or a challenge is overcome. This feeling of achievement and satisfaction motivates us to continue playing and seeking new goals..
Additionally, in the case of online video games, the ability to interact with other players in real time creates a strong sense of community and belonging, something especially valuable in our increasingly connected society. This makes it easier for friendships that take place in the “real world” to weaken in favor of the more superficial relationships that take place through a screen and with the video game as a communicative context.
Immersion in highly detailed and realistic virtual worlds is another key factor. Video games offer unique experiences that can be difficult to find in real life. This immersion, combined with the ease of access via mobile devices and computers, makes it tempting to spend hours and hours playing.
The reasons are many. And to all of the above we must also add that there are different psychological characteristics and social variables that can influence this dependency.
Why do some people become addicts and others not?
Susceptibility to video game addiction can be influenced by various factors, such as personality, life experiences, and social context. Individuals with low self-esteem, difficulties relating to others, or unresolved emotional problems may be more likely to seek refuge in virtual worlds.
Additionally, certain features of video games, such as competitiveness and the constant search for recognitioncan intensify these problems and promote addictive behaviors.
It is key to understand that, although video games can be a source of entertainment and connection, it is important to find a healthy balance between the virtual world and real life to keep addiction at bay.
Symptoms of video game addiction
There are people who enter the labyrinth of addiction without even realizing it or without having the will to accept it. Next, we will tell you how to detect addiction to online video games. These are some of the signs:
Video game addiction is characterized by an excessive prioritization of gaming over other areas of life. This manifests itself in a neglect of academic, work or family responsibilities.. The addicted person may miss classes, lose their job, or become socially isolated due to their obsession with video games.
They lose track of screen time
A clear symptom of addiction is the difficulty in controlling the time spent playing video games. The person can spend hours playing without realizing the time passing, even when they have other obligations. Attempts to reduce playing time are often unsuccessful, and the person may feel unable to resist the temptation to play again.
Your emotional and physical health deteriorates
Video game addiction has a significant impact on a person’s emotional and physical well-being. They may experience sudden mood swings, irritability, anxiety or depression, especially when they are prevented from playing.. On a physical level, they may have sleep problems, neglect their personal hygiene, diet and physical exercise.
They have obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors
People addicted to video games often have obsessive thoughts about games and constantly fantasize about them. They feel a strong need to play and may have difficulty concentrating on other activities. Additionally, they may develop compulsive behaviors related to gaming, such as the need to achieve higher levels or virtual objects.
Affects your social relationships
Video game addiction can deteriorate a person’s social relationships. They may isolate themselves from friends and family, spending so much time alone playing. Besides, They may experience conflict with loved ones due to the time they spend playing video games and neglecting their responsibilities..
If you recognize that there is a problem, you are on the right track. Often, video game addiction arises as a way to escape difficult situations or negative emotions. By admitting that gambling is interfering with your life, you are taking the first step toward change.
Once the problem is recognized, Setting clear boundaries is essential. This involves defining specific times to play and complying with them fully. It is also important to designate game-free areas in your home, such as your bedroom or study table. By limiting access to video games, you are creating a physical and mental barrier that will help you resist the temptation to play.
Finding new passions is also key to overcoming addiction. Explore activities that you find interesting and that allow you to disconnect from video games. Whether it’s reading a book, exercising, practicing an instrument, or learning something new, any activity that allows you to enjoy the present and develop new skills will be beneficial.
Social support is essential in this process, so Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your difficulties. And, if you don’t have psychological care, look for it. Dependence on online video games is a real problem that must be treated with mental health professionals. In this sense, at Clínica Recal we will be happy to help you.
And finally, be patient with you. Overcoming an addiction is a gradual process and, even if you know you are making a good decision, discomfort will arise in the process. Which, remember, is never linear. Just keep going, and trust that it will be worth the effort.
