About video game

A video game is a game played on a video screen, typically a television, computer, or handheld device.

Addiction to video 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 video game addiction?

There is no formal diagnosis of “video game addiction” in the DSM-5, but there is a diagnosis of “internet gaming disorder” which is similar.

So what means “video game addiction”?

Video game addiction is a mental disorder that is characterized by an obsession with playing video games. This disorder can lead to social isolation, problems in school or work, and even depression.

What is considered video game addiction?

There are a few key criteria that are generally used to diagnose a video game addiction. These include:

• 1. Preoccupation with gaming: This refers to an individual’s preoccupation or obsession with video games. They may think about gaming all the time and feel the need to play more and more.
• 2. withdrawal symptoms: This refers to feeling irritable, anxious, or depressed when not playing video games.
• 3. tolerance: This refers to needing to play more and more games for longer periods of time in order to get the same “high” or feeling of satisfaction.
• 4. negative impact on life: This refers to the negative impact that gaming has on an individual’s life. It may cause them to neglect their studies or work, and they may isolate themselves from friends and family.

How much video game is too much?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people may argue that spending any amount of time on video games is too much, while others may argue that as long as it does not interfere with other aspects of one’s life, it is not 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.

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Is the video game addiction widespread?

Yes, there are a significant number of people who struggle with video game addiction. While video games can be a fun and engaging form of entertainment, they can also be highly addictive for some individuals. Studies have shown that gaming addiction can lead to a range of negative consequences, including social isolation, academic and occupational problems, and even physical health issues. It is important for individuals who feel they may be struggling with video game addiction to seek help and support from qualified professionals.

Why is video game so addictive?

There is no one answer to this question as there are many factors that can contribute to why someone might find video games addictive. Some possible reasons could include that the games are enjoyable and provide a sense of escapism from everyday life, they offer a sense of accomplishment or progress, and they can be social experiences that allow people to connect with others.

Additionally, some people may be more vulnerable to developing an addiction to video games due to underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

Possible causes of video game dependency

Video game addiction can be caused by a number of factors, including a need for escapism, social isolation, and a lack of real-world achievement. Some people may be more susceptible to addiction than others, due to underlying mental health conditions or a family history of addiction.

Signs & Symptoms of video game addiction

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

• 1. You spend more time playing video games than doing anything else.
• 2. You think about video games even when you’re not playing them.
• 3. You’re always trying to get better at playing video games.
• 4. You spend a lot of money on video games and gaming equipment.
• 5. You neglect your personal hygiene and/or your responsibilities in order to play video games.
• 6. You feel anxious or irritable when you can’t play video games.
• 7. You’ve been lying to people about how much time you spend playing video games.

What are some benefits of video game

Some people might say that video games are a great way to relieve boredom or stress. They can also be used as a form of social interaction, as many people enjoy playing video games with friends or family.

Additionally, video games can improve hand-eye coordination, problem-solving skills, and reaction time.But at the opposite, what can be some video game addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

The effects of video game on your health are both physical and mental.

Physical effects can include:

-Eye strain

-Carpal tunnel syndrome

-Insomnia

-Obesity

-Musculoskeletal problems

Mental effects can include:

-Addiction

-Aggression

-Anxiety

-Depression

-Social isolation

video game and sleep disorder

Yes, video games can potentially create sleep disorders or sleep problems. Playing video games before bedtime can overstimulate the brain, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. The blue light emitted by screens can also disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle by suppressing the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

Additionally, video games can be addictive and cause individuals to stay up late into the night, leading to sleep deprivation and subsequent sleep disorders. It is important to set boundaries and avoid playing video games close to bedtime to ensure a healthy sleep schedule.

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

Some effects of video game on your brain

The long-term effects of video gaming on the brain are still being studied. However, there are some potential negative effects that have been identified, including:

• 1. Addiction: Video gaming can be addictive, and people who are addicted may experience negative consequences, such as social isolation, poor grades, and sleep problems.
• 2. Aggression: Some research has linked video gaming to increases in aggressive behavior.
• 3. desensitization: People who play violent video games may become less sensitive to violence in real life.
• 4. Attention problems: Some research suggests that people who play video games may have difficulty paying attention.
• 5. Obesity: People who play video games may be more likely to be obese, due to the sedentary nature of gaming and the high calorie content of many snacks and drinks associated with gaming.

Some effects of video game on your mental health

Some research suggests that video games can have negative effects on mental health, including increases in anxiety and depression. Other studies have found that video games can cause social isolation and increases in aggressive behavior.

Does video game cause stress and anxiety?

Yes, video games can cause stress or anxiety. When playing video games, players may experience high levels of excitement or frustration, which can lead to stress and anxiety.

Additionally, some games are designed to be challenging and difficult, which can cause players to feel anxious about their ability to succeed. Moreover, excessive gaming can also lead to social isolation, which can further contribute to stress and anxiety. It is important for individuals to monitor their gaming habits and take breaks when necessary to avoid the negative effects of excessive gaming.

Can video game addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Yes, video game addiction can lead to sadness and depression. Excessive gaming can lead to social isolation, lack of physical activity, and neglect of responsibilities, which can all contribute to feelings of sadness and depression.

Additionally, the constant stimulation and reward system in video games can create a dependency on gaming for feelings of pleasure and accomplishment, leading to further negative emotions when not gaming. It is important to balance gaming with other activities and seek help if addiction is impacting mental health.

Dopamine and video game

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward in the brain. Video games have been found to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can lead to feelings of enjoyment and motivation to continue playing.

When we play video games, our brain releases dopamine in response to certain aspects of the game, such as achieving goals, winning, or experiencing a sense of progression. This can create a reinforcing cycle, where the brain craves more dopamine and seeks out more opportunities to play the game.

However, excessive video game play can lead to addiction and negative impacts on mental health and well-being. It is important to balance video game play with other activities and responsibilities in life.

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

Video games can have both positive and negative effects on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance.

Positive effects:

– Video games can improve cognitive and motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and reaction time.
– Some video games require players to use problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and decision-making, which can improve focus and productivity.
– Multiplayer games can improve social skills and teamwork, which can translate to better academic performance.

Negative effects:

– Video games can be addictive and lead to excessive screen time, which can decrease attention span and productivity.
– Some violent or highly engaging games can cause distractions and decrease academic performance.
– Excessive gaming can interfere with sleep, leading to fatigue and decreased focus.

Overall, the impact of video games on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance can vary depending on the type and amount of gaming. Moderation is key to avoid negative effects and promote positive outcomes.

A word about ADHD and video game

Yes, people with ADHD may interact differently with video games compared to those without ADHD. People with ADHD have difficulty with attention, focus, and impulsivity, which can affect their ability to play video games effectively. They may struggle to stay engaged for extended periods and may exhibit impulsive or hyperactive behaviors, such as pressing buttons or making rash decisions without thinking through the consequences.

However, video games can also provide a stimulating and engaging environment that can help individuals with ADHD to focus and maintain their attention for longer periods. In some cases, the fast-paced and interactive nature of video games can even help manage symptoms of ADHD by providing a sense of control and immediacy.

Overall, the impact of video games on individuals with ADHD can be both positive and negative, depending on the person and the game. It is essential to find a balance and use video games in moderation, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD.

affecting your relationships

video game and self-esteem

Video games can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem. On one hand, video games can provide a sense of accomplishment and mastery, which can boost self-esteem. As players progress through levels and complete tasks, they may feel a sense of pride and satisfaction in their achievements.

On the other hand, video games can also have negative effects on self-esteem. For example, if a player is not successful in a game, they may feel frustrated and discouraged. Repeated failure can lead to a decrease in self-esteem and even feelings of worthlessness.

Additionally, excessive gaming can lead to social isolation and a lack of real-world accomplishments, which can also negatively impact self-esteem. It is important for individuals to maintain a balance between gaming and other activities that can contribute to a healthy sense of self-worth.

video game addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, video game addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. When someone becomes addicted to video games, they may spend long periods of time playing alone, which can lead to feelings of isolation and disconnection from others. They may also neglect their relationships and responsibilities, leading to further isolation and loneliness.

Additionally, video game addiction can lead to a lack of social skills and difficulty forming relationships, which can exacerbate feelings of loneliness.

Effects of video game on your relationship

Positive effects of video games on relationships:

• 1. Bonding: Playing video games can be a great way to bond with your partner or friends. It can provide a shared experience and common interest that can bring you closer together.
• 2. Communication: Video games can encourage communication and teamwork between players. This can help improve communication skills and strengthen relationships.
• 3. Stress relief: Playing video games can be a fun and effective way to relieve stress. This can help reduce tension in relationships and improve overall mood.
• 4. Shared hobby: Having a shared hobby like playing video games can help couples or friends spend quality time together and strengthen their relationship.

Negative effects of video games on relationships:

• 1. Addiction: Video game addiction can become a real problem for some people. It can lead to neglecting responsibilities, including relationships and social interactions.
• 2. Time-consuming: Playing video games can be time-consuming and may take away from time that could be spent with your partner or friends.
• 3. Conflict: Competitive video games can sometimes lead to conflict and disagreements between players. This can create tension in relationships.
• 4. Isolation: Playing video games for extended periods can lead to isolation and a lack of social interaction. This can negatively impact relationships and overall well-being.

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

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

Main steps and solutions to break the video game addiction

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, some suggested steps to get rid of video game addiction include:

• 1. Acknowledging that you have a problem.
• 2. Seeking professional help.
• 3. Making a plan to cut back on your gaming.
• 4. Sticking to your plan.
• 5. Finding other activities to do instead of gaming.

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 video game:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of video game

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