About world of warcraft

A massively popular online role-playing game in which players create characters and explore a fantasy world, completing quests and battling monsters.

Addiction to world of warcraft, 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 world of warcraft addiction?

No, World of Warcraft addiction is not listed in the DSM-5.

So what means “world of warcraft addiction”?

World of Warcraft addiction is an excessive and compulsive preoccupation with the MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) World of Warcraft. Individuals with this addiction may become so engrossed in the game that they neglect their personal relationships, work, and other responsibilities. Symptoms of World of Warcraft addiction include spending large amounts of time playing the game, devoting more time to the game than to real-life activities, and feeling a strong craving to play the game.

What is considered world of warcraft addiction?

• 1. Preoccupation with the game: A person may be addicted to World of Warcraft if they are constantly thinking about the game, even when they are not playing.
• 2. Loss of interest in other activities: A person may be addicted to World of Warcraft if they no longer find pleasure in activities they used to enjoy, such as hanging out with friends or playing sports.
• 3. Increased tolerance: A person may be addicted to World of Warcraft if they need to play for increasing amounts of time in order to feel satisfied.
• 4. Withdrawal symptoms: A person may be addicted to World of Warcraft if they experience physical and mental distress when they cannot play, such as irritability, restlessness, or depression.
• 5. Denial: A person may be addicted to World of Warcraft if they deny or minimize the problem, even when confronted with evidence of their behavior.

How much world of warcraft is too much?

There is no universal answer to this question, as everyone’s situation is different. What may be too much for one person may not be too much for another. It is important to remember to take regular breaks, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and prioritize responsibilities and relationships outside of the game.

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 world of warcraft addiction widespread?

It is difficult to determine the exact number of people who are addicted to World of Warcraft. However, there have been cases reported where individuals have spent excessive amounts of time playing the game, neglecting their personal and professional responsibilities. It is important to note that while gaming can be a fun and enjoyable activity, it is important to maintain a healthy balance and not let it interfere with other important aspects of life.

Why is world of warcraft so addictive?

World of Warcraft is an incredibly immersive game that allows players to create their own character, explore vast and dynamic worlds, and build relationships with other players. It also offers a huge variety of activities and challenges, from dungeon runs to raids, PvP battlegrounds to Arena matches, and more. The game also provides a sense of accomplishment and reward, as players progress and level up, gain new gear and skills, and become more powerful. The game also has a deep and rich lore, with a huge amount of content to explore. All of these things combine to create an experience that is highly addictive and engaging.

Possible causes of world of warcraft dependency

• 1. Social Interaction: World of Warcraft provides a platform for players to meet and interact with other people from all over the world. This can lead to intense friendships and rivalries, which can lead to strong emotional attachments to the game.
• 2. Escapism: World of Warcraft allows players to escape their everyday lives and become someone else in an alternate universe. This can lead to becoming addicted to the feeling of being in a different world and forgetting their real-world responsibilities.
• 3. Rewards and Achievements: The game rewards players with in-game rewards and achievements for completing certain tasks. This can lead to a player becoming addicted to the feeling of accomplishment that comes with progressing in the game.
• 4. Variety: World of Warcraft provides a large variety of content, quests, and activities to keep players entertained. This can lead to players getting hooked on the game’s constant new content and the feeling of progress.
• 5. Competition: World of Warcraft is a competitive game, with players striving to be the best. This competitive atmosphere can drive players to become addicted to the game as they strive to be the best.

Signs & Symptoms of world of warcraft addiction

Now let’s see if you have the world of warcraft addiction problem.

• 1. You start referring to yourself as your character’s name.
• 2. You can’t help but daydream about the game.
• 3. You find yourself talking about WoW with your friends and family.
• 4. You find yourself counting down the days until the next content patch.
• 5. You find yourself playing the game for hours on end.
• 6. You find yourself making excuses to stay home and play the game.
• 7. You find yourself buying in-game items and services with real money.

What are some benefits of world of warcraft

Pros:

• 1. Immersive World: World of Warcraft is a game that allows you to immerse yourself in a vast, detailed world that is full of quests, NPCs, and unique and exciting environments.
• 2. Endgame Content: World of Warcraft offers a variety of endgame content, such as raiding, PvP, and challenging daily quests.
• 3. Story: World of Warcraft has an incredibly rich and detailed storyline that is constantly evolving.
• 4. Social Aspect: World of Warcraft is a great way to meet other gamers and make friends. You can join guilds and chat with others while playing.
• 5. Variety: World of Warcraft offers a variety of classes, races, and professions, allowing players to customize their characters and experiences.
• 6. Beautiful Graphics: World of Warcraft features beautiful graphics that bring the world to life.
• 7. Accessibility: World of Warcraft is available on a variety of platforms, making it easy to access and play.
• 8. Variety of Gameplay: World of Warcraft offers a variety of different modes of play, from PvE to PvP to exploration.
• 9. Great Community: World of Warcraft has an incredibly welcoming and friendly community that is always willing to help new players.
• 10. Affordable: World of Warcraft is a very affordable game, and there are a variety of subscription options available.

But at the opposite, what can be some world of warcraft addiction problems addicts suffer from?

general health problems

• 1. Poor Posture: Constant hunching over a computer or gaming console can lead to poor posture and back pain.
• 2. Vision Problems: Prolonged staring at a computer or television screen can cause eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision.
• 3. Sleep Deprivation: Long hours of playing World of Warcraft can lead to sleep deprivation and reduced concentration.
• 4. Anxiety and Depression: Overindulging in the game can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and isolation.
• 5. Weight Gain: Sitting and playing video games for long periods of time can lead to a decrease in physical activity and an increase in weight gain.

world of warcraft and sleep disorder

Yes, excessive and prolonged use of World of Warcraft (WoW) can lead to sleep disorders or sleep problems. Playing WoW for long hours without taking breaks can affect the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to insomnia or other sleep disorders. The blue light emitted by the computer screen can also interfere with the production of the sleep hormone melatonin, which can disrupt sleep patterns.

Additionally, the excitement and stimulation of playing WoW can make it difficult for players to wind down and fall asleep. It is important to practice good sleep hygiene and limit screen time before bed to promote healthy sleep habits.

world of warcraft affecting your brain & mental health: bad for brain and mental health?

Some effects of world of warcraft on your brain

• 1.Loss of Motivation: World of Warcraft can be incredibly addictive, leading players to lose interest in real-world activities. This can lead to a lack of motivation, difficulty focusing on everyday tasks, and a decreased ability to stay on task or complete tasks in a timely manner.
• 2.Decreased Learning Capacity: Excessive playing of World of Warcraft can lead to a decreased ability to learn new information, which can have a detrimental effect on academic performance.
• 3.Risk of Addiction: As with any online game, World of Warcraft can become addictive. Players can become so invested in the game that they neglect their real-world responsibilities, leading to a host of physical, emotional, and social problems.
• 4.Social Isolation: World of Warcraft can cause players to become isolated from the real world, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression.
• 5.Increased Stress: Prolonged playing of World of Warcraft can lead to increased stress levels, resulting in fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and other physical and mental health issues.

Some effects of world of warcraft on your mental health

• 1. Loss of Motivation: World of Warcraft can become so engrossing that it can take over a person’s life, sapping their motivation to pursue other activities.
• 2. Sleep Deprivation: Players often stay up late playing World of Warcraft, leading to chronic sleep deprivation. In turn, this can lead to a host of physical and mental health issues.
• 3. Social Isolation: Players can become so immersed in the game that they lose touch with their friends and family, leading to social isolation.
• 4. Anxiety: The intense competition and pressure to “win” can lead to anxiety and depression in some players.
• 5. Addiction: Due to the game’s immersive nature, some players become addicted to the game and unable to stop playing. This can lead to further mental health problems.

Does world of warcraft cause stress and anxiety?

Yes, playing World of Warcraft (WoW) can cause stress or anxiety in some individuals. The game involves a lot of time commitment, intense competition, and social pressure to perform well. This can lead to feelings of stress, anxiety, and burnout, especially if the player is not able to balance their WoW gameplay with other aspects of their life.

Additionally, some players may experience anxiety related to social interactions within the game, such as fear of judgment or rejection from other players. This is particularly true for players who struggle with social anxiety in real life.

It’s important for players to be mindful of their mental health while playing WoW and to take breaks when necessary. It’s also important to prioritize self-care and make sure that WoW gameplay does not become a source of significant stress or anxiety.

Can world of warcraft addiction lead to sadness and depression?

Yes, it is possible for World of Warcraft addiction to lead to sadness and depression. Excessive gaming can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and a lack of fulfillment in real-life activities. This can cause a person to withdraw from social interactions and neglect important responsibilities, which can lead to feelings of guilt and despair.

Additionally, the constant need to achieve and progress in the game can cause high levels of stress and anxiety, which can also contribute to depression. It is important for individuals who feel like they may be struggling with addiction to seek professional help and support.

Dopamine and world of warcraft

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward. A popular video game, World of Warcraft, has been shown to increase dopamine levels in players. This is due to the game’s use of rewards and achievements, such as leveling up or obtaining rare items, which trigger the release of dopamine in the brain.

Players of World of Warcraft often become highly invested in the game, spending hours at a time playing and striving to reach new goals. This can lead to a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which further increases dopamine levels.

However, excessive gaming can also lead to addiction and negative effects on mental health. It is important for players to maintain a balance and not let the game consume their lives.

world of warcraft effects on Focus, productivity, attention span, academic performance…

World of Warcraft (WoW) can have both positive and negative effects on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance.

On the positive side, playing WoW can improve cognitive function and problem-solving skills. The game requires players to strategize, make quick decisions, and work collaboratively with others. This can translate into improved focus and productivity in other areas of life.

However, playing WoW for long periods of time can also have negative effects. It can lead to a sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity, which can impact overall health and wellbeing. It can also be addictive, leading to a decrease in productivity and attention span as players become more focused on the game than other responsibilities.

In terms of academic performance, playing WoW can be a distraction from studying and completing assignments. However, if played in moderation, it may not have a significant impact on academic performance.

Overall, the effects of WoW on focus, productivity, attention span, and academic performance depend on how much it is played and how it is balanced with other responsibilities and activities.

A word about ADHD and world of warcraft

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question as everyone with ADHD can experience it differently. However, some people with ADHD may find that playing World of Warcraft can be an effective way to manage their symptoms, as it provides a structured environment with clear goals and objectives. The game also offers a sense of achievement, which can help boost confidence and self-esteem. On the other hand, some people with ADHD may struggle with the long periods of focus required to play the game, or may find themselves becoming overly immersed in it, leading to difficulties with time management and other responsibilities. Ultimately, the impact of World of Warcraft on individuals with ADHD will depend on their unique experiences and how well they can manage their symptoms while playing the game.

affecting your relationships

world of warcraft and self-esteem

World of Warcraft can have both positive and negative effects on self-esteem, depending on how it is played and how the player perceives their own experience.

Positive effects on self-esteem:

• 1. A sense of accomplishment: World of Warcraft requires players to complete quests and defeat difficult enemies. Successfully completing these tasks can give players a sense of accomplishment and boost their self-esteem.
• 2. Social connections: Playing World of Warcraft with friends or joining a guild can provide players with a sense of belonging and social connection. This can help to increase self-esteem and confidence in social situations.
• 3. Mastery of skills: World of Warcraft requires players to learn and master a variety of skills, such as strategy, teamwork, and problem-solving. Successfully mastering these skills can give players a sense of competence and mastery, which can improve self-esteem.

Negative effects on self-esteem:

• 1. Comparison to others: World of Warcraft is a highly competitive game, and players may compare themselves to others who are more skilled or have better gear. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-esteem.
• 2. Addiction: World of Warcraft can be addictive, and players may feel a sense of loss or withdrawal when they are unable to play. This can lead to feelings of guilt or shame, which can lower self-esteem.
• 3. Isolation: Playing World of Warcraft for long periods of time can lead to social isolation, which can negatively affect self-esteem. Lack of social connection and support can lead to feelings of loneliness and low self-worth.

world of warcraft addiction leads to isolation and loneliness?

Yes, World of Warcraft addiction can lead to isolation and loneliness. As players become more engrossed in the game, they may spend more and more time in the virtual world, neglecting real-life relationships and social interactions. This can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as players may feel disconnected from their friends and family members, and may struggle to form new relationships outside of the game.

Additionally, the addictive nature of the game can make it difficult for players to step away and engage in other activities, further exacerbating feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Effects of world of warcraft on your relationship

Positive effects:

• 1. Shared hobby: Playing World of Warcraft can be a shared hobby between partners, which can help strengthen their relationship.
• 2. Improved communication: Players need to communicate effectively in the game, which can improve communication skills in real life.
• 3. Stress relief: Playing the game can be a stress-reliever, which can help partners relax and bond.
• 4. Collaborative problem-solving: World of Warcraft requires players to work together to solve problems, which can improve teamwork and problem-solving skills.
• 5. Increased empathy: Playing the game can increase empathy towards other players, which can translate to increased empathy in real-life relationships.

Negative effects:

• 1. Time consumption: World of Warcraft can be a time-consuming game, which can lead to neglect of real-life relationships.
• 2. Addiction: The game can be addictive, which can lead to neglect of other responsibilities and relationships.
• 3. Isolation: Playing the game excessively can lead to social isolation, which can negatively affect real-life relationships.
• 4. Conflict: If partners have different levels of commitment to the game, it can lead to conflict and resentment.
• 5. Unrealistic expectations: The game can create unrealistic expectations in real-life relationships, such as expecting partners to always be available to play.

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

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

Main steps and solutions to break the world of warcraft addiction

• 1. Acknowledge the problem and take responsibility for it.
• 2. Set realistic goals and create a plan to reduce the amount of time spent on the game.
• 3. Seek help from a professional counselor or therapist.
• 4. Take part in activities and hobbies that don’t involve the game.
• 5. Seek out a support system of friends and family who can help you stay on track.
• 6. Identify the underlying causes of the addiction and address them.
• 7. Reassess your goals periodically to ensure that you are making progress.

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 world of warcraft:

1. Purge temptations: Get rid of world of warcraft

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