With the rise of online gaming, smartphones, and social media, children and teens from all over the world have become increasingly infatuated with technology. Unfortunately, unfettered and unmonitored usage of technology—including games—can sometimes lead to addictive behavior and harm to one’s mental health.
In some cases, children and teens alike are being diagnosed with IUD and IGD, or Internet Usage Disorder as well as Internet Gaming Disorder. A video game disorder is serious and can affect social, mental, emotional, and even physical aspects of a gamer’s real life, which is why it must be addressed and remedied as quickly as possible.
What Is Gaming Disorder?
Gaming disorder is classified as a pattern of behavior that is typically uncontrollable over a period of time. Those affected by any gaming disorder may find it increasingly difficult to remain focused and in control of their emotions, especially when away from a computer or gaming console.
Gaming disorder is also classified as a disorder that disrupts daily life, routines, social standing, as well as emotional and physical elements of life for the individual afflicted. For players who are impacted by gaming disorder, seeking treatment and counseling is one way to help them get back on track.
What Are Some Signs of Gaming Disorder in Children and Teens?
Spotting the warning signs of gaming disorder in children and teens is not difficult, especially if you spend most of your time at home with your family. Some of the most tell-tale signs that a child or teen may have gaming use disorder include:
- Preoccupation: If children or teenagers are preoccupied with playing video games or have become obsessed with playing a game for several hours at a time
- Increased irritability: An increase in irritability, as well as anxiety (especially when away from the game) is an indicator of a compulsive gaming disorder.
- Mood swings: When children develop a serious compulsion for technology and/or gaming, they are much more likely to exhibit extreme and unexpected mood swings without warning.
- Loss of interest in hobbies and socialization: You may notice that your children become less interested in alternative hobbies as well as socializing with friends and peers as their gaming disorder strengthens.
How Can Gaming Disorder Affect a Child or Teenager’s Quality of Life, Including School Performance?
Children or teenagers who compulsively game are less likely to maintain their social relationships as well as long-term relationships with family members and friends. Withdrawal symptoms They may find it increasingly difficult to focus and pay attention in school as they are preoccupied with gaming. This, ultimately, can cause their grades to suffer.
Benefits of Receiving Quality Counseling for Gaming Disorder
Seeking out and receiving quality counseling for gaming disorder can help your child or teen to focus on a variety of areas of life outside of their digital worlds. With counseling, children can relearn how to focus, remain calm, and manage their emotions as well as their responses to stressful or negative situations. With the right counseling solution, show your child and teen that there is more to life than simply focusing on gaming and technology at all times in a comforting and welcoming environment.
Gaming disorder as well as IUD, or Internet Usage Disorder, are no laughing matters, especially with the rise in overall internet and technology usage worldwide. Once you understand gaming disorder and how it may impact your child or teen’s life, contact our team at Get Centered to explore our game disorder treatment or discuss a counseling program that is right for your family.