Video Gaming Disorder: Recognizing the Video Game Addiction Symptoms and Signs

Recently, the popularity of video games has grown wildly. Many of us like to use video games after a stressful day at work, and that’s totally okay. But when video game addiction starts consuming excessive time, disrupting work, relationships, and self-care, it could be a sign of video game addiction. Game addiction is a real and growing concern, recognized by health experts worldwide.

If you or someone you know enjoys game playing but isn’t sure whether it’s a healthy habit or an addiction, read on to spot the common video game addiction symptoms and learn how to address video gaming habits.

What is video game addiction?

Video game addiction, also known as gaming disorder or internet gaming disorder, is a behavioral condition characterized by compulsive and excessive time spent playing video games that disrupts an individual’s daily life. Similar to drug addiction or gambling disorder, it involves impaired control over gaming, where individuals continue playing games excessively even when it interferes with their personal, social, or professional lives.

It is recognized by the World Health Organization in the ICD-11 and is under further study by the American Psychiatric Association. While video games can help with relaxation and cognitive stimulation, they become harmful when used as an escape from reality.

When gaming becomes an addiction

Not everyone who plays video games develops an addiction. However, when gaming takes precedence over other life activities to the extent that it causes distress, it may signal a problem. Excessive video game use becomes an addiction when a person prioritizes gaming over responsibilities, relationships, and self-care.

Who does video game addiction affect?

Video game addiction can hit individuals of any age, but is most prevalent among adolescents and young adults. The study says that internet gaming disorder among children and adolescents is extremely problematic due to their developing brains and susceptibility to behavior addictions. But the adults associated with video game addiction often struggle with work, family, and gaming habits.

How common is video game addiction?

While estimates vary, studies show that around 12% of teens are at risk for gaming disorder, with boys (16%) more likely to be affected than girls (7%). On top of that, 34% of adolescents play video games daily, and 22% log at least four hours of gaming on those days. [1] Boniel-Nissim, M., Marino, C., Galeotti, T., Blinka, L., Ozoliņa, K., Craig, W., Lahti, H., Wong, S. L., Brown, J., Wilson, M., Inchley, J., & Regina, V. D. E. (2024, September 25). A focus on adolescent social media use and gaming in Europe, central Asia and Canada: Health Behaviour in School-aged Children international report from the 2021/2022 survey. https://iris.who.int/handle/10665/378982

Most people dealing with internet gaming addiction are around 24 years old, but it can affect adults of any age. The majority of cases, 75% to 90%, are men. In the USA, 35% of gamers fall between 18 and 34, and many of them find it hard to juggle gaming with work and family life. [2] Video game Addiction Statistics & Facts. (n.d.). https://www.recoveryhomepa.com/blog/video-game-addiction-statistics-facts

Mental health impact

Video game addiction also accompanies other mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). [3] Torres-Rodríguez, A., Griffiths, M. D., & Carbonell, X. (2018). The Treatment of Internet Gaming Disorder: a Brief Overview of the PIPATIC Program. International journal of mental health and addiction, 16(4), 1000–1015. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-017-9825-0 Some people may be using gaming as a coping mechanism, but it turns into a cycle of escapism, worsening the condition. Studies also suggest that excessive gaming can amplify feelings of loneliness and social isolation. [4] Gao, B., Cai, Y., Zhao, C., Qian, Y., Zheng, R., & Liu, C. (2024). Longitudinal associations between loneliness and online game addiction among undergraduates: A moderated mediation model. Acta Psychologica, 243, 104134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actpsy.2024.104134

How does video game addiction affect your physical health?

Long gaming sessions can take a toll on your physical health, leading to issues like:

• Poor cardiovascular fitness – Sitting for hours means less movement, which isn’t great for your heart.
• Visual problems & headaches – Staring at a screen for too long can mess with your vision.
• Sleep problems – Late-night gaming can throw off your sleep schedule.
• Repetitive stress injuries – Things like carpal tunnel syndrome from constant clicking or typing.

Signs and symptoms of video game addiction

Recognizing the symptoms of internet gaming disorder (IGD) is essential for early intervention. The criteria for internet gaming disorder include:

Gaming obsession

Individuals constantly think about gaming, even when not playing, and may plan their next session obsessively.

Loss of interest in daily life

Hobbies, social events, and responsibilities take a backseat as video games may become the primary focus.

Escaping through games

Many individuals with video game addiction use gaming to avoid real-life problems, stress, or emotional pain.

Increased gaming tolerance

Over time, people addicted to video games may need to spend more time playing video games to achieve the same level of satisfaction.

Failed time control

Despite wanting to cut back, individuals struggle to reduce their gaming hours.

Neglected duties

Work, school, and household duties are ignored in favor of gaming.

Strained relationships

Conflicts with loved ones about the disorder often arise due to neglect and excessive gaming.

Withdrawal symptoms

People who play video games may experience irritability, restlessness, or sadness, similar to withdrawal from alcohol addiction, when they are unable to play.

Causes of video game addiction

Several factors contribute to the development of gaming addiction:

Social interaction needs

Online multiplayer games provide a sense of community, making it difficult for some to disengage.

Reward systems

The brain’s reward system is activated by in-game achievements, reinforcing compulsive gaming behavior.

Psychological factors

Underlying conditions like depression, anxiety, or ADHD can increase vulnerability to addiction.

Genetic influence

Some individuals may have a higher risk of developing behavioral addictions due to genetic factors.

What are the effects of video game addiction?

The consequences of video game addiction extend beyond screen time.

Poor cardiovascular fitness

Sitting for hours while gaming can take a toll on your heart and raise the risk of weight gain. Not moving enough can also lead to stiff muscles and poor circulation.

Visual problems

Too much screen time can cause dry eyes, blurry vision, and headaches. Over time, this cause of video game addiction might even contribute to more serious problems like nearsightedness.

Mental health issues

Gaming addiction can spike stress, anxiety, and mood swings. For some, it becomes a way to escape reality, making existing mental health challenges worse.

Family problems

When gaming takes over, it can lead to arguments, neglected responsibilities, and emotional disconnect. Loved ones may feel ignored or frustrated, damaging relationships.

How is video game addiction diagnosed?

For a gaming disorder to be diagnosed, a mental health professional can diagnose video game addiction based on behavioral patterns. The key indicators include impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative outcomes.

Video game addiction treatment

An effective treatment option for video game addiction often involves a combination of therapies:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals diagnosed with video game addiction recognize and change unhealthy gaming habits.

Group therapy

Treatment for video game addiction, such as support groups, provides a space to share experiences and coping strategies.

Family or marriage counseling

Since video game addiction can affect loved ones, family therapy can help repair relationships.

What are the risk factors for developing video game addiction?

Risk factors include:

• Pre-existing mental health conditions ( for example, ADHD, depression).
• Lack of social support.
• Easy access to video games.
• High-stress environments.

Do all gamers face the risk of addiction?

Not everyone who plays games develops an addiction. However, those who notice addiction to video games, such as neglecting responsibilities or experiencing withdrawal symptoms, should seek help.

Preventing a Gaming Problem

To avoid excessive video game use:

• Set time limits for gaming.
• Engage in offline hobbies.
• Maintain a healthy balance between gaming and real-life activities.

Is there a video game addiction test?

While no single test can definitively diagnose gaming disorder, self-assessment tools based on the symptoms of IGD can help identify problematic behaviors.

How Calmerry Can Help with Gaming Addiction?

Calmerry offers convenient access to treatment for video gaming addiction from the comfort of online therapy. Through individual sessions with state-licensed therapists, clients explore the roots of their behaviors and gain enhanced coping strategies. Flexible scheduling opportunities and a safe, non-judgmental setting offer Calmerry’s help at every step towards equilibrium and recovery.

FAQ 

Is video game addiction a disability?

In severe cases, gaming disorder can impair daily functioning, but it is not classified as a disability.

Why is gaming addiction so common in teens?

Adolescents are more susceptible due to developing brains, social pressures, and increased screen time.

Is video game addiction a choice?

Initially, gaming is voluntary, but addiction involves a loss of control, making it a compulsive behavior.

How many hours of gaming is considered an addiction?

There’s no set number, but when gaming interferes with life, it may be problematic.

Is gaming addiction a mental illness?

Yes, the WHO classifies gaming disorder as a mental health condition.

What are the most common addiction symptoms?

Preoccupation with gaming, withdrawal symptoms, and neglecting responsibilities are key indicators. In such cases, a video game addiction treatment is needed

How does video game addiction impact relationships and social life?

Video game addiction can strain relationships as excessive gaming leads to neglect of family, friends, and social obligations, often causing isolation and conflict. Over time, the lack of real-world interactions may weaken social skills and reduce emotional connections with loved ones.

Are certain types of games more addictive than others?

Yes, multiplayer online games (like MMORPGs and battle royales) and games with loot boxes or reward systems tend to be more addictive due to their social and psychological reinforcement mechanisms. Single-player games with open-ended progression or competitive rankings can also encourage compulsive play.