About mmo

MMO is a massively multiplayer online game.

Addiction to mmo, 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 mmo addiction?

There is no listing for MMO addiction in the DSM-5.

So what means “mmo addiction”?

MMO addiction is a real problem for some people. It’s characterized by an uncontrollable need to play online games, often to the exclusion of all other activities. Symptoms include feeling restless or irritable when not playing, losing interest in other hobbies and activities, and spending excessive amounts of time and money on in-game items. MMO addiction can lead to serious problems in school, work, and personal relationships.

What is considered mmo addiction?

• 1. Preoccupation with the game – thinking about it when you’re not playing, or looking forward to playing it all the time
• 2. Loss of control – playing for longer or more frequently than you intended, or finding it hard to stop playing
• 3. Neglecting other important areas of your life – letting your real-life commitments slide in favor of playing the game
• 4. Tolerance – needing to play for longer or more frequently to get the same buzz or feeling of satisfaction
• 5. Withdrawal symptoms – feeling irritable, anxious or depressed when you can’t play, or using the game as a way to escape from real-life problems

If you’re worried that you or someone you know might be addicted to an MMO, it’s important to seek professional help.

How much mmo is too much?

There is no universally accepted answer to this question. It depends on the person’s individual circumstances, including their age, health, lifestyle, and commitments. Some people may be able to spend a considerable amount of time on an MMO without any negative consequences, while others may find that even a small amount of time spent on an MMO is 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.

This Course Breaks Your Digital Habits

START THE COURSE

Is the mmo addiction widespread?

There are many people addicted to MMOs (massively multiplayer online games). The exact number of people addicted varies depending on the definition of addiction and the specific MMO in question, but it is estimated that millions of people around the world are addicted to these types of games. Addiction to MMOs can have negative impacts on individuals’ personal, social, and professional lives, and it is important for individuals to recognize the signs of addiction and seek help if necessary.

Why is mmo so addictive?

There are a number of reasons why people might find MMOs addictive. For some, it might be the sense of social interaction and community that they provide. For others, it might be the feeling of accomplishment and progress that comes with levelling up a character. And for others still, it might simply be the escapism and sense of adventure that these games provide. Whatever the reason, for many people, MMOs can be highly addictive.

Possible causes of mmo dependency

There is no one answer to this question as everyone experiences MMO addiction differently. However, some possible causes of MMO addiction could include feelings of social isolation, escapism, or needing to feel a sense of achievement or progress.

Additionally, people who are struggling with mental health issues or have a history of addiction may be more susceptible to developing an addiction to MMOs.

Signs & Symptoms of mmo addiction

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

• 1. You spend more time playing MMOs than you do sleeping.
• 2. You have multiple accounts on different servers and play them all at the same time.
• 3. You have more in-game friends than you do real-life friends.
• 4. You can’t go more than a few hours without playing an MMO.
• 5. You have all of the expansion packs for your favorite MMOs.
• 6. You’ve spent more money on in-game items than you have on real-life items.
• 7. You can’t imagine life without playing MMOs.

What are some benefits of mmo

Some people might say that playing an MMO is a great way to socialize and make friends. Others might say that they enjoy the feeling of camaraderie that comes from playing with others in an MMO. And still others might enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from completing difficult tasks with a group of people. Whatever the reason, there are many people who enjoy playing MMOs and who find them to be a great way to spend their time.But at the opposite, what can be some mmo addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

There is not a lot of research on the effects of MMORPGs on health, but some studies have found that playing these games can lead to increased levels of anxiety and depression. In addition, some research has found that MMORPGs can cause players to become more isolated and withdrawn from real-life social interactions.

mmo and sleep disorder

Yes, playing MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) can potentially create sleep disorders or sleep problems. This is because playing MMOs can lead to decreased sleeping hours or irregular sleeping patterns, which can interfere with the body’s natural circadian rhythm.

Additionally, the blue light emitted from screens can reduce the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, making it harder to fall asleep. It is important to establish healthy habits and set boundaries when playing MMOs to ensure that it does not negatively impact your sleep.

mmo affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?

Some effects of mmo on your brain

There is no definitive answer to this question as the effects of MMOs on the brain can vary depending on the individual. Some people may find that playing MMOs can help to improve their cognitive skills and memory, while others may find that it has negative effects on their concentration and focus. There is also some evidence to suggest that MMOs can affect the way that the brain processes emotions, which could lead to problems with anxiety and depression.

Some effects of mmo on your mental health

MMOs can have a number of negative effects on your mental health, including:

• 1. Social isolation: Spending too much time in an MMO can cause you to become isolated from real-life social interaction. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
• 2. Addiction: Some people become addicted to MMOs and spend excessive amounts of time playing them. This can lead to problems with work, school, and personal relationships.
• 3. Compulsive behavior: Some people develop compulsive behaviors related to MMOs, such as spending too much money on in-game items or spending too much time playing.
• 4. Mental health problems: Some people with pre-existing mental health problems may experience worsening symptoms due to playing MMOs.

Does mmo cause stress and anxiety?

Yes, playing MMO games can cause stress and anxiety for some individuals. This can be due to various reasons such as:

• 1. Competition: MMO games often involve competing with other players for resources, ranking, and achievements. This can create a high-pressure environment that leads to stress and anxiety.
• 2. Time commitment: MMO games often require a significant time commitment to progress and succeed. This can create stress for players who feel they need to dedicate a lot of time to the game.
• 3. Social pressure: MMO games often involve social interactions with other players. This can create pressure to fit in and be accepted by the community, which can lead to anxiety.
• 4. Perceived failure: Failing to meet personal or community expectations in MMO games can create feelings of disappointment, stress, and anxiety.

It is important to recognize when playing MMO games starts to negatively impact one’s mental health and to take breaks or seek help if needed.

Can mmo addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Yes, MMO addiction can lead to sadness and depression. When someone becomes addicted to an MMO, they may spend excessive amounts of time playing the game, neglecting other important aspects of their life such as work, school, relationships, and physical health. This can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and dissatisfaction with one’s life outside of the game.

Additionally, if the addict is unable to play the game due to technical issues or other reasons, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and depression. Overall, MMO addiction can have a negative impact on mental health and well-being.

Dopamine and mmo

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in pleasure, reward, motivation, and learning. When we engage in activities that are rewarding or pleasurable, such as playing video games, dopamine is released in the brain, which reinforces the behavior and encourages us to keep doing it.

MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) are designed to be highly engaging and rewarding, with many features that can trigger dopamine release. For example, completing quests, earning achievements, and leveling up all provide a sense of accomplishment and reward, which can increase dopamine levels in the brain.

However, excessive gaming and dopamine release can lead to addiction and other negative consequences, such as decreased motivation for other activities, disrupted sleep patterns, and social isolation. It is important to balance gaming with other healthy behaviors and to be aware of the potential risks of excessive gaming.

mmo effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…

Yes, playing MMOs (Massively Multiplayer Online games) can affect focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance in both positive and negative ways.

On the negative side, playing MMOs for prolonged periods can lead to decreased productivity, as players may become engrossed in the game and neglect other responsibilities.

Additionally, frequent interruptions and distractions from the game can negatively affect focus and attention span, making it difficult to concentrate on other tasks.

On the positive side, playing MMOs can improve cognitive abilities such as problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking. These skills can transfer to academic performance and work productivity if the player can effectively manage their time and balance game time with other responsibilities.

However, excessive gaming can also lead to sleep deprivation, which can negatively impact cognitive abilities and academic performance. It is important to find a balance between playing MMOs and other responsibilities to avoid negative effects on productivity, focus, attention span, and academic performance.

A word about ADHD and mmo

There is some research that suggests that people with ADHD may interact differently with MMOs (massively multiplayer online games) compared to neurotypical individuals.

Some studies have found that individuals with ADHD may be more drawn to MMOs because they offer a highly stimulating and engaging environment. The constant stream of new goals, challenges, and rewards can provide a level of stimulation that individuals with ADHD may crave.

Additionally, the social aspect of MMOs can be appealing to individuals with ADHD who may struggle with social interactions in other contexts.

However, other studies have found that individuals with ADHD may struggle with certain aspects of MMOs, such as focusing on long-term goals or managing time effectively. The fast-paced nature of MMOs can also lead to impulsivity and distractibility, which may make it difficult for individuals with ADHD to stay on task and complete objectives.

Overall, the relationship between ADHD and MMOs is complex and may vary depending on the individual. Some individuals with ADHD may find MMOs to be a helpful way to engage their brain and interact with others, while others may struggle with the demands of the game.

affecting your relationships

mmo and self-esteem

MMOs, or Massively Multiplayer Online games, have the potential to both positively and negatively affect self-esteem.

Positive effects:

• 1. Sense of achievement: MMOs often involve completing quests or leveling up, which can provide a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.
• 2. Social interaction: MMOs allow players to interact with others from around the world and build social connections, which can improve self-esteem and feelings of belonging.
• 3. Mastery: Learning and mastering a game can provide a sense of competence and confidence, which can improve self-esteem.

Negative effects:

• 1. Addiction: Excessive play can lead to neglect of other important aspects of life such as work, school, and relationships, leading to feelings of guilt and low self-esteem.
• 2. Comparison to others: Players may compare themselves to others in the game who may have better skills or equipment, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.
• 3. Online harassment: Harassment or bullying in the game can lead to negative feelings and low self-esteem.

Overall, the impact of MMOs on self-esteem is complex and can vary depending on individual factors such as motivation for playing and frequency of play. It is important for players to maintain a balance between gaming and other aspects of their lives to prevent negative effects on their self-esteem.

mmo addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, MMO (massively multiplayer online) addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone becomes addicted to playing MMO games, they may spend excessive amounts of time playing and neglecting other aspects of their life, such as socializing with friends and family. This can lead to social isolation and feelings of loneliness, as the person may have less opportunities to interact with others and build meaningful relationships.

Additionally, MMO addiction can also lead to the development of social anxiety and difficulty in socializing with others. This can further contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation, as the person may feel uncomfortable or anxious in social situations.

It is important to note that not all individuals who play MMO games will develop an addiction or experience these negative effects. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and to seek support if you or someone you know is experiencing negative consequences related to MMO gaming.

Effects of mmo on your relationship

Positive effects:

• 1. Bonding: MMOs can help couples bond over shared interests and goals.
• 2. Communication: Playing MMOs together can improve communication skills by requiring teamwork and coordination.
• 3. Adventure: MMOs can provide a sense of adventure and excitement that can add excitement to a relationship.
• 4. Stress relief: Playing MMOs can be a form of stress relief and a way to unwind after a long day of work or other stressors.

Negative effects:

• 1. Time management: MMOs can take up a lot of time, potentially leading to neglect of other responsibilities and relationships.
• 2. Addiction: MMOs can be addictive, leading to neglect of other aspects of life and relationships.
• 3. Conflict: MMOs can lead to conflict if one partner becomes more invested in the game than the other.
• 4. Disconnection: MMOs can create a sense of disconnection from the real world and other relationships, potentially leading to a lack of intimacy and communication.

This Course Breaks Your Digital Habits

START THE COURSE

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

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

Main steps and solutions to break the mmo addiction

The main steps to getting rid of MMO addiction are to firstly admit that you have a problem, and then to seek help from a professional. Once you have done this, you will need to make a concerted effort to change your gaming habits, and to focus on other aspects of your life. It is also important to find a support network, either online or offline, which can help you through the process.
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 mmo:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of mmo

First, cleaning your life from temptations is much easier than resisting to them. Disable or delete your mmo 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