Welcome to our digital detoxing series! A series on how to stop addictions toFortnite,Facebook,Instagram,porn,Netflix, Youtube,Tinder… Findall the posts about digital addiction. Today, let’s talk about how to quit the mario kart addiction.
- What’s the mario kart addiction?
- Addiction to mario kart, a “real” addiction?
- What’s considered mario kart addiction
- How much mario kart is too much?
- Some video games addiction facts & statistics
- Symptoms & Causes of the mario kart addiction
- Why is mario kart so addictive?
- Possible causes of mario kart dependency
- Symptoms, Causes and Signs of mario kart addiction
- Problems, impacts & bad effects of mario kart
- Some benefits of mario kart
- health problems
- impact on brain & mental health
- impact on relationships
- How to stop & quit your mario kart addiction
- Main steps and solutions to break the mario kart addiction
- Best mario kart blocker apps & functionalities
- where to seek extra help?
- Conclusion
- To Go Further
- How to help someone with mario kart addiction
- Best books about video games addiction
- Research about video games addiction
What is the mario kart addiction?
About mario kart
Mario Kart is a popular racing game series where players race against each other on fantasy tracks to win races.
Addiction to mario kart, 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 mario kart addiction?
No, Mario Kart addiction is not listed in the DSM-5.
So what means “mario kart addiction”?
Mario Kart addiction is a term used to describe an obsession with playing the Mario Kart video game series. People with Mario Kart addiction may spend hours playing the games, to the point that it interferes with their daily activities. They may also become fixated on improving their scores or competing with others. Mario Kart addiction can be seen as a form of video game addiction, similar to how people can become addicted to other forms of entertainment.
What is considered mario kart addiction?
- 1. Spending an abnormal amount of time playing Mario Kart, such as multiple hours a day.
- 2. Becoming irritable or agitated if unable to play Mario Kart.
- 3. Neglecting other activities or hobbies, such as socializing, in order to play Mario Kart.
- 4. Feeling restless or anxious if there is a delay in playing Mario Kart.
- 5. Feeling euphoric or energized when playing Mario Kart.
- 6. Becoming preoccupied with the game, such as thinking about it when not playing.
- 7. Feeling a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction after playing Mario Kart.
- 8. Lying to family or friends about the amount of time spent playing Mario Kart.
- 9. Participating in risky behavior, such as driving recklessly, to gain an advantage in the game.
- 10. Refusing to stop playing Mario Kart even when asked to by family or friends.
How much mario kart is too much?
This is subjective, and depends on a person’s lifestyle and commitments. If playing Mario Kart interferes with a person’s academic, work, or personal goals, then it could be considered too much.
Some video games addiction facts & statistics
Video game addiction, also known as gaming disorder, is a relatively new phenomenon and the statistics vary depending on the source and definition of addiction. Here are some statistics related to video game addiction:
1. According to a survey conducted by the Entertainment Software Association, 65% of American adults play video games, and the average age of a video gamer is 35 years old.
2. According to a study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health, approximately 8.5% of adolescents in the United States meet the criteria for video game addiction.
3. The World Health Organization (WHO) included gaming disorder as a diagnosable conditionin the 11th Revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11.. The WHO estimates that gaming disorder affects 3-4% of gamers.
4. According to a study published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, gamers who play for more than 40 hours per week are more likely to report depression, anxiety, and lower overall life satisfaction.
5. A study conducted by the University of Oxford found that playing video games for less than an hour per day was associated with higher levels of well-being, while those who played for more than three hours per day had lower levels of well-being.
It is important to note that not all video game usage is considered addiction, and many people are able to enjoy video games in a healthy and balanced way.
Is the mario kart addiction widespread?
It is possible for individuals to become addicted to video games, including Mario Kart, if they spend an excessive amount of time playing and it begins to negatively impact their daily life and responsibilities. It is important for individuals to monitor their gaming habits and seek help if they feel they may have developed an addiction.
Symptoms, Causes and Signs of mario kart addiction
Why is mario kart so addictive?
Mario Kart is an incredibly popular and highly addictive racing game that has been around since 1992. It is incredibly fun and engaging, with a wide variety of characters, courses, and items that make it easy to pick up and play, and difficult to put down. The game also has a strong competitive element, with both local and online multiplayer modes, making it a great game for friends and family to play together.
Additionally, the game has a long history and is a classic, which adds to its appeal and keeps people coming back.
Possible causes of mario kart dependency
- 1. Fun and Engaging Gameplay: Mario Kart is an incredibly fun and engaging game that draws players in with its colorful characters and fast-paced race tracks.
- 2. Competitive Nature: Mario Kart is a competitive game that rewards players for their skill and speed, which can be incredibly addictive.
- 3. Variety: Mario Kart offers a variety of different courses and characters to choose from, which keeps the game fresh and engaging.
- 4. Social Aspect: Playing Mario Kart with friends can make it even more enjoyable, as players can compete against one another and share in the excitement of the game.
- 5. Achievements: Players who are able to complete certain objectives or win certain races may feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which can be addictive.
Signs & Symptoms of mario kart addiction
Now let’s see if you have the mario kart addiction problem.
- 1. You find yourself playing Mario Kart at every opportunity.
- 2. You have a very competitive racing spirit when playing Mario Kart.
- 3. You can identify which character is which based on their kart alone.
- 4. You have memorized all of the courses and can recite them on command.
- 5. You have an encyclopedic knowledge of all the special items.
- 6. You often find yourself dreaming of Mario Kart.
- 7. You frequently have conversations with your friends about Mario Kart.
Problems, impacts & bad effects of mario kart: should you quit?
What are some benefits of mario kart
Pros of Mario Kart:
- 1. Fun and Exciting Gameplay: Mario Kart is full of exciting courses, creative power-ups, and fast-paced races. The game offers a great challenge for any skill level and its engaging mechanics keep the fun going.
- 2. Variety of Modes: Mario Kart offers a wide variety of game modes from Grand Prix to Battle Mode. This lets you customize your gaming experience and play exactly how you want.
- 3. Multi-Player Options: Mario Kart has a great selection of local and online multi-player options for those who want to race with friends or take on the world.
- 4. Great Graphics: Despite being an older game, Mario Kart still looks great and its visuals are still impressive.
- 5. Iconic Characters: Mario Kart is filled with iconic Mario characters like Mario, Luigi, Toad, and more. This adds to the game’s charm and makes it even more enjoyable.
Overall, Mario Kart is an amazing game that is sure to provide hours of fun. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a classic racing game.But at the opposite, what can be some mario kart addiction problems addicts suffer from?
general health problems
Positive Effects:
- 1. Improved hand-eye coordination: Playing Mario Kart can help improve hand-eye coordination, as players must react quickly and accurately to the game’s fast-paced action.
- 2. Improved reflexes: As with hand-eye coordination, Mario Kart can help improve reflexes as players must respond quickly to obstacles in the game.
- 3. Improved concentration: Mario Kart requires players to stay focused and concentrate on the action, making it an excellent game for developing concentration.
- 4. Improved problem-solving skills: Mario Kart requires players to think strategically and plan ahead, helping to develop problem-solving skills.
Negative Effects:
- 1. Risk of addiction: As with any video game, there is a risk of addiction. Players may become so engrossed in the game that they neglect other important aspects of their lives.
- 2. Increased aggression: Some players may become frustrated or angry during game play, leading to increased aggression.
- 3. Decreased physical activity: Playing Mario Kart can lead to decreased physical activity as players sit at a console instead of engaging in physical activity.
mario kart and sleep disorder
In general, playing video games, including Mario Kart, before bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to sleep problems or sleep disorders. The blue light emitted from screens can interfere with the body’s natural production of melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleep, and affect the quality and duration of sleep.
Additionally, the excitement and stimulation from playing video games can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep. It is recommended to avoid playing video games, including Mario Kart, at least an hour before bedtime to promote better sleep.
mario kart affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?
Some effects of mario kart on your brain
1. Decreased Concentration: Mario Kart is a fast-paced game and requires intense concentration to play. This can cause your brain to become overstimulated, resulting in decreased focus and concentration on other tasks.
2. Increased Stress Levels: Mario Kart can be a very competitive game and can cause your stress levels to increase. This can lead to further problems such as headaches and insomnia.
3. Distraction from Real-Life Goals: Spending too much time and energy on Mario Kart can distract you from your real-life goals and objectives. This can lead to decreased motivation and a lack of progress towards achieving your goals.
Some effects of mario kart on your mental health
- 1. Increased Stress: Mario Kart can be extremely competitive, which can lead to increased stress levels. Players may become frustrated when they lose a race or when they are unable to master a difficult course.
- 2. Poor Time Management: Playing Mario Kart can lead to poor time management as players can become so engrossed in the game that they spend too much time playing. This can lead to a lack of productivity and poor academic performance.
- 3. Addiction: Some players may become addicted to Mario Kart, spending too much time playing and neglecting their other responsibilities. This can lead to a lack of concentration and an inability to focus on other tasks.
- 4. Social Isolation: Spending too much time playing Mario Kart can lead to social isolation as the player may not want to engage in social activities with others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
Does mario kart cause stress and anxiety?
It is possible for Mario Kart to cause stress or anxiety in some individuals, particularly in highly competitive or intense gameplay situations. The fast-paced nature of the game, combined with the pressure to perform well and win, can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, or even anger.
Additionally, the use of bright colors, flashing lights, and loud sounds can overstimulate some players and contribute to feelings of stress or overwhelm. However, for most players, Mario Kart is a fun and entertaining game that can provide a welcome break from the stresses of daily life.
Can mario kart addiction lead to sadness and depression?
It is possible for any form of addiction to lead to sadness and depression, including addiction to Mario Kart. When someone becomes addicted to a video game, they may spend excessive amounts of time playing it, which can lead to neglecting important responsibilities, such as school or work. This can lead to feelings of guilt and inadequacy, which can contribute to feelings of sadness and depression.
Additionally, if someone becomes overly invested in a video game, it can lead to a lack of social interaction and isolation, which can also contribute to feelings of sadness and depression. It is important to recognize the signs of video game addiction and seek help if necessary.
Dopamine and mario kart
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is released in the brain and is associated with pleasure, reward, and motivation. Playing video games like Mario Kart can stimulate the release of dopamine in the brain, leading to feelings of accomplishment and satisfaction when the player achieves a goal or wins a race. This can create a positive feedback loop, where the brain seeks more of the pleasurable experience, leading to increased motivation to continue playing. However, it is important to balance gaming with other activities to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
mario kart effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…
Playing Mario Kart can affect focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance in both positive and negative ways.
On the positive side, playing Mario Kart can improve hand-eye coordination, reaction time, and strategic thinking skills. These skills can translate into better academic performance and productivity in other areas of life.
However, playing Mario Kart for extended periods of time can also be a distraction and negatively impact focus and attention span. It is important to balance playing video games with other activities that promote academic and personal growth, such as studying, physical exercise, and social interaction.
In summary, playing Mario Kart can have both positive and negative effects on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance. It is important to maintain a healthy balance and prioritize activities that promote academic and personal growth.
A word about ADHD and mario kart
There is no definitive answer to this question as people with ADHD may interact differently with Mario Kart based on a multitude of factors including their individual symptoms, severity of symptoms, and personal preferences. However, some research suggests that individuals with ADHD may be more impulsive, have difficulty with sustained attention, and struggle with executive functioning tasks such as planning and decision-making.
In the context of Mario Kart, these symptoms may manifest in a number of ways. For example, individuals with ADHD may be more likely to take risks and make impulsive decisions while playing the game, which could result in them taking shortcuts or driving recklessly. They may also have difficulty focusing on the game for extended periods of time, leading to distraction or boredom.
Additionally, they may struggle with strategic decision-making, such as deciding which power-up to use or when to use it, or with planning ahead to anticipate obstacles or turns in the course.
However, it is important to note that these are generalizations and that individuals with ADHD may interact with Mario Kart in a variety of ways based on their individual strengths and weaknesses.
Additionally, many individuals with ADHD may find the fast-paced, visually stimulating gameplay of Mario Kart to be engaging and enjoyable, which may help to mitigate some of their symptoms while playing the game.
affecting your relationships
mario kart and self-esteem
Mario Kart can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem, depending on how one perceives their performance in the game.
On one hand, winning races and achieving high scores can boost self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment and mastery. Success in the game can also lead to a sense of competitiveness and confidence, which can carry over into other areas of life.
However, on the other hand, losing races or performing poorly can have a negative impact on self-esteem. This can lead to feelings of frustration, disappointment, and a sense of failure.
Additionally, comparing oneself to others who may be more skilled at the game can also lead to feelings of low self-esteem and inadequacy.
Overall, it is important to approach playing Mario Kart with a healthy mindset and not let the game’s outcomes overly affect one’s self-esteem. It is also important to remember that the game is meant to be enjoyed and not taken too seriously.
mario kart addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?
Yes, Mario Kart addiction can potentially lead to isolation and loneliness. When individuals become excessively focused on playing video games like Mario Kart, they may start to spend more and more time alone or with online gaming friends, rather than interacting with real-life friends and family. This can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as the individual may start to feel disconnected from their social support network.
Additionally, excessive gaming can lead to neglect of other important responsibilities, such as work or school, further contributing to feelings of isolation and stress. It is important for individuals who enjoy gaming to find a balance that allows them to engage in their hobby without sacrificing important social connections and responsibilities.
Effects of mario kart on your relationship
Positive effects:
- 1. Bonding: Playing Mario Kart together can be a fun and bonding experience, helping you and your partner to spend quality time together.
- 2. Communication: Playing Mario Kart can help improve communication between you and your partner, as you need to work together to strategize and win the game.
- 3. Laughter: Mario Kart is known for its silly and entertaining gameplay, and playing it with your partner can bring a lot of laughter and joy to your relationship.
- 4. Healthy competition: Playing Mario Kart can help stimulate healthy competition between you and your partner, which can be a fun and exciting way to build your relationship.
Negative effects:
- 1. Frustration: Losing in Mario Kart can be frustrating, and this frustration can sometimes spill over into your relationship.
- 2. Cheating: Cheating can also be an issue in Mario Kart, and if one partner is caught cheating, it can cause trust issues in the relationship.
- 3. Overindulgence: Playing too much Mario Kart can lead to neglecting other aspects of your relationship, such as spending quality time together.
- 4. Arguments: Sometimes playing Mario Kart can lead to arguments, especially if one partner is more competitive than the other or if there are disagreements over gameplay strategies.
How To Stop & quit Your mario kart Addiction
Finally you think you are addicted to mario kart and you are wondering how to quit it? How to break and overcome your cravings for mario kart?
Here are the best solutions, steps, supports, resources and help you can get to treat your mario kart addiction.
Main steps and solutions to break the mario kart addiction
- 1. Identify the triggers that lead to playing Mario Kart. Try to identify why you want to play it and think of other activities you can do instead.
- 2. Set boundaries. Make a plan that limits the amount of time you spend playing Mario Kart and strictly adhere to it.
- 3. Make healthy substitutions. Find activities to replace the time spent playing Mario Kart. Exercise, read, watch movies, hang out with friends, etc.
- 4. Reach out for help. If necessary, seek professional help or join a support group to help you through the process.
- 5. Distract yourself. When the urge to play Mario Kart arises, try to do something to take your mind off it and distract yourself.
- 6. Track your progress. Keep track of your progress and celebrate small successes. This will help to motivate you to stay on track.
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 mario kart:
1. Purge temptations: Get rid of mario kart
First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your mario kart 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: