About card game

A card game is a game that uses playing cards as the primary tool of gameplay. Players use a deck of cards to compete against each other, with the objective of winning by having the highest value or combination of cards.

Addiction to card game, a “real” addiction?

Officially an addiction?

First, let’s have a look to the DSM-5,the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Does it includes card game addiction?

No, card game addiction is not specifically listed in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition). However, gambling disorder is listed as a diagnosable condition, and excessive playing of card games (or other types of gambling games) can fall under this category.

So what means “card game addiction”?

Card game addiction refers to an excessive and uncontrollable desire to play card games, which can lead to negative consequences in a person’s life. This addiction can manifest in different ways, such as spending excessive amounts of money on card games, neglecting personal responsibilities such as work or school, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when unable to play. Card game addiction is a form of gambling addiction and can have severe impacts on a person’s mental health and well-being. It is important to seek help if you or someone you know is struggling with this addiction.

What is considered card game addiction?

• 1. Preoccupation with card games: The person may spend a lot of time thinking about card games, planning when and where they will play, and looking forward to their next game.
• 2. Loss of control: The person may find it difficult to stop playing, even when they have other important things to do. They may continue playing for longer than they intended and neglect other responsibilities.
• 3. Withdrawal symptoms: The person may experience negative emotional or physical symptoms when they are unable to play card games. These symptoms may include anxiety, irritability, restlessness, and even physical symptoms such as headaches and insomnia.
• 4. Tolerance: The person may need to play card games more frequently or for longer periods of time to achieve the same level of enjoyment or excitement.
• 5. Interference with social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning: The person may neglect important relationships, work, or other responsibilities in order to play card games.
• 6. Continued use despite negative consequences: The person may continue to play card games even when it causes problems in their life, such as financial difficulties, relationship problems, or health issues.
• 7. Deception and dishonesty: The person may lie about their card game playing or hide the extent of their involvement from others. They may also engage in illegal or unethical activities to support their card game addiction.

How much card game is too much?

The amount of time spent on a card game depends on individual preferences, responsibilities, and priorities. If playing card games starts to interfere with daily responsibilities, relationships, or negatively impacts one’s physical or mental health, it may be considered too much time. It is important to maintain a healthy balance between leisure activities and other aspects of life.

Some Online entertainment addiction facts & statistics

Online entertainment addiction is a growing concern as more and more people spend their time on the internet for entertainment purposes. Here are some statistics related to online entertainment addiction:

1. According to a 2018 study by the Pew Research Center, 26% of adults in the United States say they are “almost constantly” online.

2. A 2019 survey by Common Sense Media found that 50% of teens feel addicted to their mobile devices.

3. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that 14% of college students in China were addicted to online entertainment.

4. A 2020 survey by the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that 10% of American adults had experienced internet addiction at some point in their lives.

5. A 2021 study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research found that social media use was associated with increased risk of depression and anxiety among young adults.

Overall, these statistics suggest that online entertainment addiction is a growing concern, especially among young people, and may have negative effects on mental health.

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Is the card game addiction widespread?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of people who are addicted to card games, as addiction can vary in severity and may not always be recognized or reported. However, card games such as poker and blackjack can be highly addictive, as they involve gambling and the potential for high stakes and rewards.

Additionally, the social aspect of playing card games with friends or in a casino setting can also contribute to addictive behavior. It is important for individuals to be aware of their own behavior and seek help if they feel they may be struggling with addiction.

Why is card game so addictive?

There are several reasons why card games can be addictive:

• 1. Strategy: Card games often require a great deal of strategy and critical thinking skills. Figuring out the best move to make can be challenging and rewarding.
• 2. Social Interaction: Many card games are played with others, creating opportunities for social interaction and bonding. This can be particularly appealing for those who enjoy spending time with others.
• 3. Competition: Card games often involve a competitive element, which can be motivating for some people. The desire to win and outsmart opponents can keep players engaged and motivated.
• 4. Chance: Probability and chance play a significant role in many card games. The unpredictability of the game can be exciting and keep players engaged.
• 5. Rewards: Winning a game or achieving a high score can be rewarding and satisfying, releasing feel-good chemicals in the brain and reinforcing the desire to play again.

Possible causes of card game dependency

• 1. Psychological factors: Card game addiction may be linked with underlying psychological issues like anxiety, depression, or stress that the person may be trying to cope with.
• 2. Social factors: A person may become addicted to card games due to the social aspect of the activity. For some people, card games provide a sense of belonging or connection with others.
• 3. Dopamine release: Winning a card game triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that creates a sense of pleasure and reward. This can lead to a desire to keep playing to experience that feeling again.
• 4. Easy accessibility: With the rise of online card games, it has become easier to access these games at any time from anywhere, which can lead to excessive play.
• 5. Personal factors: Some people may simply have a personality that is more susceptible to addiction or impulsivity, making them more likely to become addicted to card games.

It is important to note that addiction is a complex issue, and often a combination of factors can contribute to its development.

Signs & Symptoms of card game addiction

Now let’s see if you have the card game addiction problem.

• 1. You constantly think about playing card games: If you find yourself constantly thinking about playing card games, even when you are not playing them, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 2. You prioritize card games over other activities: If you find yourself canceling plans with friends or skipping important tasks to play card games, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 3. You spend a lot of money on card games: If you are spending a significant amount of money on buying card decks or accessories, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 4. You get irritable or upset when you can’t play card games: If you become angry or upset when you are unable to play card games, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 5. You play card games for long periods of time: If you find yourself playing card games for hours on end without taking breaks, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 6. You neglect personal hygiene or sleep to play card games: If you are neglecting basic personal hygiene or sacrificing sleep to play card games, this could be a sign of addiction.
• 7. You experience negative consequences due to card game addiction: If your addiction to card games is causing negative consequences in your life, such as relationship problems or financial difficulties, this is a clear sign of addiction.

What are some benefits of card game

There are several pros and advantages of playing card games:

• 1. Easy to Learn: Card games are easy to learn and can be played by anyone, regardless of age or skill level.
• 2. Portable: Card games are portable and can be played almost anywhere, making them a great option for travel or outdoor activities.
• 3. Social Interaction: Card games encourage social interaction and can be a great way to connect with friends and family.
• 4. Cognitive Benefits: Playing card games can improve cognitive skills such as memory, concentration, and decision-making.
• 5. Variety: There are hundreds of different card games to choose from, providing endless entertainment and variety.
• 6. Low Cost: Most card games require only a deck of cards, making them an affordable entertainment option.
• 7. Accessibility: Card games can be played by people with disabilities, making them an inclusive option for all.

Overall, card games are a great way to have fun, socialize, and improve mental skills.But at the opposite, what can be some card game addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

The effects of playing card games on your health can be both positive and negative. Here are some potential effects:

Positive effects:

• 1. Mental stimulation: Card games require players to use their cognitive skills, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving, which can help to improve their mental agility and flexibility.
• 2. Social interaction: Card games can provide a fun and social outlet for people, which can lead to increased feelings of connection and decreased feelings of loneliness.
• 3. Stress relief: Playing card games can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to unwind after a long day or week.

Negative effects:

• 1. Sedentary behavior: Playing card games often involves sitting for long periods of time, which can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and increase the risk of health problems such as obesity and heart disease.
• 2. Eye strain: Staring at cards or a computer screen for extended periods of time can cause eye strain and other visual problems.
• 3. Addiction: Some people may become addicted to playing card games, which can lead to negative consequences such as financial problems, social isolation, and depression.

card game and sleep disorder

It is highly unlikely that playing card games can directly cause sleep disorders or sleep problems. However, playing card games late into the night can lead to sleep deprivation, which can cause a range of health problems, including sleep disorders.

Additionally, if the game is particularly stressful or stimulating, it could lead to difficulty in falling asleep or staying asleep. It is important to prioritize getting enough sleep and avoiding stimulating activities before bed to ensure a good night’s rest.

card game affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?

Some effects of card game on your brain

• 1. Addiction: Card games can be highly addictive and can lead to compulsive gambling behaviors, which can have negative consequences on the brain and overall health.
• 2. Stress and Anxiety: Playing card games can be stressful and can lead to high levels of anxiety, which can negatively affect the brain and overall well-being.
• 3. Memory Loss: Many card games require players to remember rules, strategies, and card combinations, which can be challenging for people with memory problems.
• 4. Decreased Attention Span: Playing card games for extended periods can lead to a decrease in attention span, making it difficult for players to focus on other tasks.
• 5. Reduced Problem-Solving Skills: While card games can improve problem-solving skills, excessive playing can lead to a decrease in critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• 6. Social Isolation: Spending too much time playing card games can lead to social isolation, which can negatively impact mental health and overall well-being.

Overall, while playing card games in moderation can be beneficial for the brain, excessive playing can have negative effects on mental health and well-being.

Some effects of card game on your mental health

• 1. Addiction: Card games can become addictive, leading to an increased risk of compulsive gambling behavior, which can negatively impact mental health.
• 2. Anxiety: The pressure of winning or losing in a card game can cause anxiety and stress, leading to negative impacts on mental health.
• 3. Depression: Losing repeatedly in card games can lead to feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and depression.
• 4. Impaired decision-making: Playing card games for an extended period can impair decision-making abilities, leading to irrational behavior, which can negatively impact mental health.
• 5. Isolation: Spending an excessive amount of time playing card games can lead to social isolation, which can have negative effects on mental health.
• 6. Financial Stress: Losing money in card games can lead to financial stress, which can negatively impact mental health.
• 7. Relationship problems: Playing card games excessively can lead to conflicts with family and friends, leading to relationship problems, which can negatively impact mental health.

Does card game cause stress and anxiety?

Yes, card games can cause stress or anxiety in some people, especially if they are highly competitive or if the player has a tendency to become easily frustrated or overwhelmed.

Additionally, some people may experience anxiety due to the pressure of making the right move or strategy, or due to the fear of losing or making a mistake. However, card games can also be a fun and relaxing way to pass the time, so it ultimately depends on the individual and their personal experience and feelings towards the game.

Can card game addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Yes, card game addiction can lead to sadness and depression. This is because addiction to any activity, including card games, can lead to negative consequences in a person’s life, such as neglecting personal responsibilities, social isolation, and financial problems. These negative consequences can contribute to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and despair, which can ultimately lead to depression.

Additionally, excessive gaming can disrupt the natural release of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which can worsen depression symptoms. It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is struggling with card game addiction and experiencing negative emotions.

Dopamine and card game

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter in the brain that is associated with pleasure and reward. Card games can be an enjoyable activity that can release dopamine in the brain. When playing card games, players experience a sense of anticipation and excitement that can trigger the release of dopamine. This can make playing card games a fun and rewarding experience for many people. However, it is important to remember to play card games in moderation and to avoid developing a gambling addiction.

card game effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…

Card games, like any other game, can have an impact on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance, but the extent of this impact may vary from person to person and the type of card game being played.

On the positive side, playing card games can improve cognitive skills such as memory, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It can also help reduce stress and anxiety levels, which can ultimately improve focus and productivity.

However, excessive card game playing can lead to a decrease in academic performance, as it may take away time from studying and homework. Also, if the card game involves too much luck, it may not challenge the player’s cognitive skills as much, and therefore not provide as many benefits.

In summary, playing card games in moderation can have positive effects on focus, productivity, attention span, and cognitive skills. Still, excessive playing can have negative impacts on academic performance and overall well-being.

A word about ADHD and card game

It is possible that people with ADHD may interact differently with card games. Some individuals with ADHD may struggle with attention, focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which could affect their ability to play card games in a conventional manner.

For example, individuals with ADHD may have difficulty following the rules of the game, maintaining focus on the game, staying still, and taking turns. They may also be more likely to make impulsive decisions or act impulsively during the game, which could impact their ability to win or participate fully.

However, it is important to note that ADHD affects individuals differently. Some people with ADHD may not experience any significant difficulties playing card games, while others may struggle more.

Additionally, some individuals with ADHD may find card games to be a helpful way to improve focus and executive functioning skills.

Overall, it depends on the individual and the severity of their ADHD symptoms, as well as the specific card game being played.

affecting your relationships

card game and self-esteem

Card games can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem. Here are some ways in which card games can affect self-esteem:

• 1. Success in the game can boost self-esteem: Winning a game can make someone feel good about themselves, which can lead to an increase in self-esteem. This is especially true if the person was able to use their skills and strategies to win the game.
• 2. Failure in the game can lower self-esteem: On the other hand, losing a game can lead to a decrease in self-esteem, especially if the person feels like they didn’t perform well or made mistakes.
• 3. Social interactions during the game can impact self-esteem: Card games often involve social interactions with other players. If a person feels like they are being treated unfairly or not taken seriously, their self-esteem can suffer. On the other hand, positive interactions with other players can boost self-esteem.
• 4. Learning something new can increase self-esteem: Learning how to play a new card game can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. As a person becomes more skilled at the game, their self-esteem can increase.

Overall, the impact that card games have on self-esteem will depend on a variety of factors, including the person’s attitude towards the game, their level of skill, and the social dynamics of the game.

card game addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, card game addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone is addicted to playing card games, they may spend a lot of time playing those games instead of spending time with friends and family. This can lead to social isolation and loneliness as they may miss out on important social interactions and connections.

Additionally, if the person is playing card games online, they may become more isolated as they may not interact with others in person. Over time, this can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. It is important to balance playing card games with other social activities and maintain a healthy balance in life.

Effects of card game on your relationship

Positive effects of card games on relationships:

• 1. Enhances communication: Card games require players to communicate with each other, which can help couples to improve their communication skills and strengthen their bond.
• 2. Builds teamwork: Some card games require players to work together towards a common goal, which can help couples develop a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
• 3. Provides entertainment: Card games can provide a fun and entertaining activity for couples to enjoy together, which can help to reduce stress and improve mood.
• 4. Enhances problem-solving skills: Card games often require players to think strategically and solve problems, which can help couples to develop their problem-solving skills and improve their ability to work through challenges together.

Negative effects of card games on relationships:

• 1. Can lead to conflict: Competitive card games can sometimes lead to arguments or conflicts between couples if one partner becomes too focused on winning.
• 2. Can be addictive: Card games can be addictive, and if one partner becomes too obsessed with playing, it can lead to neglect of the relationship.
• 3. Can become monotonous: If couples play the same card game repeatedly, it can become monotonous and lose its appeal over time.
• 4. Can be time-consuming: If couples spend too much time playing card games, it can take away from other activities that are important for maintaining a healthy relationship, such as spending quality time together and engaging in physical activities.

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Finally you think you are addicted to card game and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for card game?

Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your card game addiction.

Main steps and solutions to break the card game addiction

Here are some steps to get rid of card game addiction:

• 1. Acknowledge the addiction: The first step is to recognize and acknowledge that you have a problem and are addicted to card games.
• 2. Seek professional help: Consider seeking help from a professional therapist or counselor who specializes in addiction treatment.
• 3. Identify triggers: Identify what triggers your addiction and try to avoid those situations or people that make you want to play card games.
• 4. Set limits: Set limits on how much time and money you spend playing card games.
• 5. Find other activities: Find alternative activities to replace the time and energy that you spent on playing card games.
• 6. Get support: Surround yourself with friends and family who support your decision to quit playing card games.
• 7. Stay committed: Stay committed to your decision to quit playing card games and don’t give up if you slip up. Keep trying and focus on your goals.

Actually, that’s what most documentation out there is about… However, quitting a digital addiction can be a bit trickier than that.

So our team, after testing many ways, designed a bulletproof way to overcome them. Here are some clear and practical steps that are very powerful to quit a digital addiction, including card game:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of card game

First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your card game accounts, change the password and hide it somewhere you can’t access easily, keep your phone / computer far away… Out of sight out of mind.

Here is a video from our course the The Digital Purge. on how to add resistance to your temptations, so you become so lazy to engage with them that you give them up:

More of the Digital Purge