What is Internet Gaming Disorder and How Can You Recognize It?

Are you someone who spends hours upon hours playing video games? Do you find it difficult to stop playing even when you know you should? If so, you may be at risk for developing Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). IGD is a newly recognized mental health condition characterized by a persistent and compulsive urge to play video games, leading to significant impairment or distress in personal, social, or professional areas of functioning.

What is IGD?
IGD is a pattern of persistent and recurrent gaming behavior that becomes excessive and leads to significant impairment or distress. Individuals with IGD often continue to play despite negative consequences such as decreased academic or work performance, strained relationships, and neglect of personal hygiene. The individual may also experience increased irritability, anxiety, and depression when attempting to reduce or stop gaming.

How to recognize IGD?
Recognizing IGD can be challenging as it often goes unnoticed by those around the individual. However, there are some common signs to look out for. These include spending excessive amounts of time playing video games, preoccupation with gaming, and withdrawal symptoms when not able to play. Other signs include lying about gaming, neglecting personal hygiene, and a decline in academic or work performance.

In conclusion, IGD is a serious mental health condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s personal, social, and professional life. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of IGD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. With proper treatment, individuals with IGD can lead fulfilling and balanced lives.

What is Internet Gaming Disorder?

Definition

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a condition characterized by excessive or compulsive online gaming behavior that leads to negative consequences in a person’s life. It is often described as a type of impulse control disorder and is recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as a condition warranting further study.

Symptoms

Individuals who suffer from IGD may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:

• Preoccupation with online gaming: A person with IGD may spend excessive amounts of time playing online games, often prioritizing gaming over other important activities such as work, school, or socializing.
• Withdrawal symptoms when unable to play: When a person with IGD is unable to play games, they may experience symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, or depression.
• Continuation of gaming despite negative consequences: Despite experiencing negative consequences as a result of their gaming behavior, such as financial problems, relationship issues, or health problems, a person with IGD may continue to play games compulsively.
• Loss of interest in other activities: As a result of their preoccupation with online gaming, a person with IGD may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with friends and family.

It is important to note that not all individuals who spend a lot of time playing online games will develop IGD, and that the condition is not fully understood by mental health professionals. However, for those who do suffer from IGD, it can have serious negative consequences for their mental and physical health, as well as their personal and professional relationships.

How to Recognize Internet Gaming Disorder

Self-Assessment

• Ask yourself questions about your gaming habits: Are you spending more time playing online games than you intended? Do you feel guilty or ashamed about the amount of time you spend gaming? Have you tried to cut back on gaming but found it difficult to do so?
• Determine if your gaming behavior is causing problems in your life: Are you neglecting your work or school responsibilities because of gaming? Are you isolating yourself from friends and family to spend more time gaming? Are you experiencing financial problems because of your gaming habits?

Signs of Disorder

• Spending excessive amounts of time playing online games: Do you spend more than three hours a day playing online games? Do you find it difficult to stop playing even after several hours?
• Preoccupation with gaming, even when it interferes with daily life: Do you think about gaming even when you are not playing? Do you choose gaming over other activities that you used to enjoy?
• Continuing to play despite negative consequences: Have you experienced health problems, financial problems, or relationship problems because of your gaming habits? Do you continue to play despite these negative consequences?
• Withdrawal symptoms when unable to play: Do you feel irritable, anxious, or depressed when you are unable to play online games? Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop playing?
• Loss of interest in other activities: Have you lost interest in hobbies or activities that you used to enjoy? Do you find it difficult to engage in other activities that are not related to gaming?

Causes of Internet Gaming Disorder

Biological Factors

• Genetics: Research has shown that individuals who have a family history of addiction are more likely to develop Internet Gaming Disorder. Specific genes have not been identified, but studies suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the development of the disorder.
• Brain chemistry: Internet Gaming Disorder has been linked to changes in the brain’s reward system, which is responsible for processing feelings of pleasure and satisfaction. Individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder may have alterations in the brain’s dopamine system, which can lead to compulsive gaming behavior.

Environmental Factors

• Availability of online games: The widespread availability of online games and the ease of access to them can contribute to the development of Internet Gaming Disorder. The increasing sophistication and realism of online games can make them highly addictive, and the ease of playing them on multiple devices can make it difficult for individuals to quit.
• Social factors, such as peer pressure: The social environment in which an individual plays online games can also contribute to the development of Internet Gaming Disorder. Peer pressure to keep playing or to compete with other players can be a powerful motivator, and the sense of community and social connection that can be found in online gaming can make it difficult for individuals to quit. Additionally, the lack of social stigma associated with online gaming can make it easier for individuals to become addicted.

Treatment for Internet Gaming Disorder

Therapy

Therapy is a crucial component of treating Internet Gaming Disorder. It can help individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction and develop coping strategies to manage their urges. Two common types of therapy used to treat Internet Gaming Disorder are cognitive-behavioral therapy and family therapy.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the context of Internet Gaming Disorder, CBT can help individuals recognize and challenge their irrational beliefs about gaming and develop more balanced and healthy attitudes towards gaming. It can also help individuals learn how to manage their time and set limits on their gaming habits.

Family therapy

Family therapy is a type of therapy that involves the entire family in the treatment process. It can be helpful for individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder who have strained relationships with their family members due to their addiction. Family therapy can help family members understand the impact of the addiction on the individual and learn how to support them in their recovery. It can also help the individual understand how their addiction affects their family and learn how to repair relationships.

Self-Help Strategies

In addition to therapy, there are several self-help strategies that can be helpful for individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder. These include setting limits on gaming time, finding alternative activities to replace gaming, and seeking support from friends and family.

Setting limits on gaming time

Setting limits on gaming time can be a helpful strategy for individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder. This can involve setting a specific amount of time each day or week that can be spent on gaming, and sticking to that limit. It can also involve gradually reducing the amount of time spent on gaming over time.

Finding alternative activities to replace gaming

Finding alternative activities to replace gaming can be a helpful strategy for individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder. This can involve finding new hobbies or activities that are enjoyable and fulfilling, such as sports, reading, or hiking. It can also involve spending time with friends and family, pursuing new interests, or engaging in creative activities.

Seeking support from friends and family

Seeking support from friends and family can be a helpful strategy for individuals with Internet Gaming Disorder. This can involve confiding in trusted friends or family members about the addiction, seeking support from a support group, or participating in family therapy. Having a support system can help individuals feel less isolated and provide accountability and encouragement in their recovery.

Prevention of Internet Gaming Disorder

Education

Education is a crucial aspect of preventing Internet Gaming Disorder. It is important for individuals to learn about the risks associated with excessive gaming and understand the warning signs of disorder. This can be achieved through various means such as workshops, seminars, and online resources. It is also important to educate parents and guardians about the potential dangers of excessive gaming and how to identify signs of disorder in their children.

Parental Controls

Parental controls play a significant role in preventing Internet Gaming Disorder. Parents can set limits on screen time to ensure that their children are not spending excessive amounts of time playing video games. Monitoring online activity can also help parents identify potential problems and take action before they escalate. Additionally, encouraging healthy habits and interests outside of gaming can help children develop a well-rounded lifestyle and reduce the risk of developing Internet Gaming Disorder.

Self-Regulation

Self-regulation is an important aspect of preventing Internet Gaming Disorder. Individuals should be aware of their own gaming habits and set limits for themselves. This can include setting a specific time limit for gaming, taking breaks, and engaging in other activities outside of gaming. Self-awareness and self-control can help individuals avoid developing Internet Gaming Disorder and prevent it from worsening if they already have symptoms.

Seeking Help

If individuals suspect that they or someone they know may have Internet Gaming Disorder, it is important to seek help. This can include speaking with a mental health professional, who can provide an assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options. Early intervention is crucial in preventing Internet Gaming Disorder from worsening and causing long-term harm.

In conclusion, prevention of Internet Gaming Disorder involves education, parental controls, self-regulation, and seeking help when necessary. By taking proactive measures, individuals can reduce the risk of developing Internet Gaming Disorder and prevent it from worsening if they already have symptoms.

FAQs

1. What is Internet Gaming Disorder?

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a condition where an individual experiences negative consequences due to their excessive and compulsive gaming behavior. This can include a preoccupation with gaming, withdrawal symptoms when not gaming, and continuing to game despite negative consequences.

2. How is IGD different from normal gaming?

Normal gaming is a hobby that people enjoy in moderation, while IGD is characterized by excessive and compulsive gaming behavior that interferes with daily life. People with IGD may spend hours playing games, neglecting work, school, or personal relationships, and experience significant distress or impairment in their daily lives.

3. What are the symptoms of IGD?

The symptoms of IGD can vary, but commonly include a preoccupation with gaming, withdrawal symptoms when not gaming, and continuing to game despite negative consequences. Other symptoms may include decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities, irritability, and mood changes.

4. Who is at risk for developing IGD?

Anyone who plays video games can develop IGD, but some factors may increase the risk. These include spending excessive amounts of time playing games, playing games as a way to cope with stress or emotional problems, and having a history of addictive behaviors.

5. How is IGD diagnosed?

IGD is diagnosed by a mental health professional based on a combination of clinical assessment and criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The criteria include impaired control over gaming, continuation of gaming despite negative consequences, and significant impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning.

6. How is IGD treated?

Treatment for IGD typically involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help individuals identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors related to gaming. Medication may be used to treat underlying mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, that may contribute to IGD. Lifestyle changes, such as setting limits on gaming time and engaging in alternative activities, can also be helpful.

7. Can IGD be prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent IGD, but some strategies may help reduce the risk. These include setting limits on gaming time, engaging in a variety of activities, and seeking help if there are concerns about excessive gaming behavior. Encouraging open communication about gaming habits and seeking support from friends and family can also be helpful.

This is Internet Gaming Disorder!