Thriveworks video game addiction counseling in Peachtree City, GA helps people who have an obsession with playing video games as well as with the more severe internet gaming disorder. People may have mild, moderate, or severe internet gaming disorder if they struggle to control how often or how long they game. The symptoms of internet gaming disorder may include deceiving loved ones about when and how often they play, thinking constantly about gaming, and using video games as a distraction from real-world problems.
Thriveworks video game addiction counseling in Peachtree City helps those who suffer by assisting them in regaining control over video gaming. In addition, it can help them cope with the negative effects of video game addiction counseling from anxiety to depression, insomnia, and more.
The length of video game addiction counseling depends on the individual's needs as well as the extent and severity of their problem and those that might stem from it. That said, people can make meaningful progress in the first weeks to months of therapy.
If you or your child is having difficulty with when and how long they game, interventions are available. Many people are turning to mental health professionals at Thriveworks Peachtree City for guidance.
Thriveworks Peachtree City provides counseling for video game addiction: So that people can regain control of their video game use. To book a session, simply call us or go online to book a session today.
Video Game Addiction: Recognizing the Signs
The DSM-5 gives the following diagnostics for internet gaming disorder. Many overlap with signs for other addictions:
- Tolerance: Playing video games more often and for longer periods of time in order to feel the same amount of satisfaction.
- Obsession: Being preoccupied with gaming, even when not playing.
- Avoidance: Using video games as an escape from real difficulties and challenges.
- Withdrawal: Experiencing irritability, moodiness, depression, or restlessness when trying to quit gaming.
- Skewed priorities: Choosing videos games over time with family and friends, or over career and educational opportunities.
- Deceit: Lying to loved ones about gaming.
- Escape: Alleviating challenging emotions (guilt, shame, sadness, loneliness, anxiety, boredom, depression, et cetera) by playing video games.
Compulsive Gaming’s Potential Negative Effects
Any impulse control disorder or addiction has the potential for devastating effects within a person’s life, and internet gaming disorder is no different. Those who struggle with video game addiction may experience negative relational, physical, and emotional effects.
- Relational: As people form attachments to video games, their real-world relationships may suffer. In particular, lying about video game use can wound loved ones, as can irresponsible spending on equipment and monthly fees.
- Physical: Indirectly, obsession with gaming often leads to neglect of one’s body, resulting in poor eating habits, lost sleep, and neglected hygiene. Directly, too much gaming can cause Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, dry eyes, headaches, and back pain.
- Emotional: Using video games to avoid emotional problems often means those issues grow.
Therapy for Internet Gaming Disorder at Thriveworks Peachtree City
If you or your child is struggling with compulsive video game use, you are not alone—but many people are also turning to therapy to help re-establish control.
If you are ready to reach out for help, know that Thriveworks Peachtree City has worked with children, teens, and adults who struggle with their gaming habits. Call or book online with Thriveworks Peachtree City today.