Gaming Addiction

On the surface, gaming seems harmless, a popular way for people to unwind, connect with others and enjoy their free time. But a deeper layer to modern video games is often overlooked.

For example, many of today’s games are engineered to keep players coming back, often through the ‘Pay to Win’ model or mystery boxes, a feature where players pay to unlock random in-game items. Mystery boxes are especially insidious, as they mimic the mechanics of gambling, creating excitement and unpredictability each time a box is opened.

This element of chance can trigger the same kind of addictive response as traditional gambling, making players feel compelled to keep spending in the hopes of getting rare items or upgrades.

Another reason is that modern games are so intricately designed that they can feel like a world within a world. Some games let you step into the role of an ordinary character with the goal of building them up to a ‘god-like’ status. For those struggling with real-life challenges, this kind of gaming can act as a powerful form of escapism, drawing players in deeper and deeper.

In fact, gaming addiction has become so widespread that in 2013, it was added to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as ‘Internet Gaming Disorder’. This recognition shows just how serious it can be. For people struggling with gaming addiction, it’s a compulsion that takes priority over everything else, from work to relationships.

Understanding gaming addiction is the first step in recognising the signs and taking back control, so gaming stays a fun pastime and not something that runs your life.

Gaming addiction is a relatively new concern and as gaming technology evolves, so does our understanding of its impacts. Researchers have spent years exploring the effects of excessive gaming, uncovering a range of troubling findings that point to the need for continued study. Here are some of the most concerning results so far:

Mental health and emotional strain: Gaming addiction is closely associated with mental health challenges, including higher levels of impulsivity, depression and anxiety.

Social isolation and relationship strain: Those affected by gaming addiction often experience significant social issues, like feelings of loneliness, social anxiety and difficult family dynamics. While online gaming can provide a sense of belonging, the social connection gained in virtual spaces may lead to real-world isolation and a disconnect from close relationships​.

Academic and career impact: Adolescents and young adults with gaming addiction frequently report lower academic performance, with many noting declines in grades or neglected responsibilities. This extends to career performance, where time lost to gaming can interfere with professional obligations and progression.​

Sleep disorders and physical health: Gaming addiction often disrupts sleep, leading to insomnia and poor sleep quality. The physically inactive lifestyle common among those addicted to gaming has also been linked to health issues like obesity, repetitive strain injuries and muscle strain, showing that both mental and physical health are at risk​.

Understanding the signs of gaming addiction is key to supporting loved ones who may be struggling. Spotting these signs early on can make a world of difference, allowing you to step in with support and guidance before the situation escalates. Here’s how gaming addiction can manifest across physical, psychological and behavioural signs.

Physical signs

• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying up too late due to gaming can lead to chronic fatigue, irritability and decreased mental focus during the day.
• Poor hygiene: In extreme cases, a person may neglect personal grooming, meals and other daily routines.
• Physical discomfort: Frequent gaming can lead to strain in the eyes, headaches and discomfort in the wrists, fingers or back, often due to prolonged, uninterrupted sessions.

Psychological signs

• Obsessive thinking: Individuals may become preoccupied with gaming, constantly thinking about it when they’re not playing and planning their next session.
• Mood swings: Irritability or even aggression can appear when they’re unable to play or have been asked to stop, indicating a dependency on gaming to maintain a balanced mood.
• Anxiety or depression: For some, gaming becomes a way to escape from feelings of anxiety, stress or depression, creating a cycle where they feel reliant on gaming for emotional relief.

Behavioural signs

• Withdrawing from other activities: Hobbies, social engagements and even responsibilities can fall by the wayside as gaming takes priority.
• Lying about gaming habits: A person may downplay the amount of time spent gaming or be dishonest about why they’re unavailable to family and friends.
• Decline in performance: Work, school and other areas of life may suffer as a result of spending more time gaming, and they might struggle with meeting obligations or maintaining productivity.

At Liberty House, we understand how gaming addiction can disrupt your life and relationships and we’re here to offer the specialised support you need to regain balance. Our tailored gaming addiction programme focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of your reliance on gaming, helping you develop healthier coping strategies.

Central to our approach is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which empowers you to replace negative thought patterns with healthier, more positive ones. By working with our compassionate therapists, you’ll learn to understand and manage the emotions and behaviours that fuel your gaming habits.

For many, a residential stay is especially beneficial, providing a dedicated space to focus entirely on recovery. This immersive experience gives you the time and support to develop resilience and lay the foundation for a gaming-free life. Reach out to Liberty House today, and let us help you take the first steps toward lasting change.