Gaming Addiction: Symptoms & Treatment

Dr.Pavitra Shankar, 3 mins read

Nowadays, gaming has evolved from a casual pastime into a multi-billion-dollar global industry that connects millions. But behind the dazzling graphics and thrilling virtual victories, a growing concern is emerging — gaming addiction. And it is not just confined to children anymore, with adults also in its grip. While playing games occasionally can be entertaining and even beneficial for stress relief or cognitive sharpness, excessive gaming can take a serious toll on mental, emotional, and physical health. Night merges into day, social interactions fade, and a person’s life begins revolving solely around screens and gaming scores. Understanding gaming addiction, its warning signs, and available treatment options is crucial for timely intervention and recovery.

At Aakash Healthcare, specialised mental health professionals use a personalised approach to help individuals regain balance in their lives.

What Is Gaming Addiction?

Gaming addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), is characterised by an uncontrollable urge to play video games, even when it negatively impacts personal, social, academic, or professional life. The World Health Organisation (WHO) officially recognises it as a mental health disorder, highlighting its growing prevalence, especially among teenagers and young adults. The key factor distinguishing gaming addiction from normal gaming is the loss of control. The person cannot stop playing even when they want to, choosing gaming over essential responsibilities and relationships.

Common Symptoms of Gaming Addiction

Recognising the symptoms early can make a huge difference in preventing long-term consequences. Some common signs include:

1. Preoccupation with gaming: Constantly thinking about past sessions or upcoming opportunities to play.
2. Loss of interest in other activities: Neglecting hobbies, studies, or social interactions.
3. Withdrawal symptoms: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when unable to play.
4. Devoting more time towards gaming: The person increasingly spends time on gaming activities to feel the same excitement.
5. Ignoring responsibilities: Skipping work, school, or family activities to continue gaming.
6. Deceptive behaviour: Lying about time spent gaming or hiding gaming habits.
7. Sleep issues and fatigue: Staying awake deep into the night or neglecting sleep entirely.

Watch out for these signs particularly in the 5-20 years age bracket, and if these behaviours persist for over a year and disrupt daily functioning, professional help may be needed.

Why Does Gaming Become Addictive?

Several psychological and neurological factors contribute to gaming addiction. Many games are intentionally designed to be immersive — the constant rewards, achievements, and multiplayer social dynamics trigger the dopamine reward system in the brain. Furthermore, in a fast-paced, stressful world, gaming offers an escape — a virtual space where players feel accomplished, connected, and in control. However, when used as a coping mechanism for loneliness, depression, or anxiety, it can evolve into a serious dependency.

Treatment Options for a Gaming Addiction

The good news is that gaming addiction is treatable with proper guidance, therapy, and support.

Common treatment methods include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and compulsive behaviors linked to gaming.
2. Digital detox programs: Structured time away from digital devices to reset the brain’s reward system.
3. Family counselling: Involving family members to build understanding and support recovery.
4. Lifestyle modification: Encouraging physical activity, mindfulness, and real-world social interactions to replace excess screen time.
5. Medication: In some cases, medication may help manage underlying anxiety, depression, or impulsive behaviour.

At Aakash Healthcare Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka psychiatry clinicians also emphasise long-term coping strategies — teaching self-regulation, time management, and emotional resilience to prevent relapse.

Final Thoughts: It’s All About Finding the Right Balance

Gaming in moderation can be a harmless activity, and it is even considered beneficial, as it improves coordination, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills. However, when control slips away, it’s essential to recognise that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. If you know someone who is suffering from this type of gaming addiction, they can reach out for professional psychiatric help. With the right care and treatment, it’s possible to regain control, rebuild balance, and enjoy gaming as a healthy, positive part of life. For appointment bookings and any queries, please call: 88 000 159 05