Gaming has become an obsession for many players, especially men under 30. The WHO (World Health Organization) has officially decided to include gaming disorder in its list of behavioral disorders. As soon as a child’s gaming habits become persistent, and it impairs their personal, social, family and educational performance or functions, the child needs to be considered for video game addiction treatment.
Playing video games produces a similar effect in the brain as the high produced by alcohol or drugs — so, doctors recognize that gaming can produce the same type of addictive behavior as drugs and alcohol. If your teenager prefers to play video games all day or night instead of handling basic personal hygiene or hanging out with friends, you may need to seek teen gaming addiction treatment.
Before we admit a teenage patient for treatment at Gateway, we have a detailed interview with the parent to know the type of treatment the teen needs. After working with teens with behavioral disorders for many decades, we know that addiction to gaming is a sign of other underlying issues. It’s these issues that drive the child to stay in seclusion and avoid those painful feelings.
Many people who need gaming addiction rehab are teenagers. More males suffer from behavioral disorders related to gaming. Most of these kids also have poor self-worth and social problems. These children are intelligent, but they have few friends.
At Gateway, we do an extensive check on family background and history before admitting people into therapy. A history of addiction can be a factor in gaming addiction.
Q: What are the steps I should take when I discover that my child has an obsession with gaming?
A: First, develop self-discipline with electronics — games, smartphones, TV and more. Your child will naturally follow your example. Help your child develop a different relationship with electronics and video games. Next, get personal or family counseling to help your child realize that gaming is a diversion from a situation they don’t want to confront. You may also consider taking your child to Gateway for a program that treats gaming addiction effectively.