Case Studies and Personal Experiences

One of the strongest arguments in favor of classifying video game addiction as a mental illness comes from case studies and personal experiences. Many individuals have reported feeling compelled to play video games for hours on end, often at the expense of other important aspects of their lives. For example, a study conducted by the University of Cambridge found that 6% of survey respondents reported experiencing “problematic gaming,” which was defined as causing significant distress or impairment in daily life.

Another study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that individuals who met the criteria for problematic gaming were more likely to experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. In addition, some people have reported feeling physically addicted to video games, experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping when they are unable to play.

Expert Opinions and Research

There is also a growing body of research and expert opinions that support the idea that video game addiction should be classified as a mental illness. In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) added “Internet gaming disorder” to its list of recognized mental disorders. This move was based on evidence that excessive video game play can lead to a range of negative consequences, including social isolation, decreased productivity, and even physical health problems.

Similarly, in 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) added “Gaming disorder” to its list of recognized mental disorders. The WHO defined gaming disorder as a persistent or recurrent pattern of excessive video game use that leads to negative consequences in various areas of life.

Comparisons with Other Addictions

One of the key arguments in favor of classifying video game addiction as a mental illness is that it shares many similarities with other addictions, such as substance abuse and gambling. Like these other addictions, video game addiction can lead to compulsive behavior, loss of control over usage, and negative consequences in other areas of life.

For example, a study published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine found that individuals who met the criteria for problematic gaming were more likely to also meet the criteria for substance abuse and gambling disorder. In addition, some people have reported feeling physically addicted to video games, experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping when they are unable to play.

FAQs

Is video game addiction a real thing? Yes, excessive video game play can lead to a range of negative consequences, including decreased productivity, social isolation, and even physical health problems. While there is still debate about whether or not video game addiction should be classified as a formal mental illness, many experts believe that it shares many similarities with other addictions.

Can video game addiction cause depression and anxiety? Yes, individuals who meet the criteria for problematic gaming are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. In addition, some people have reported feeling physically addicted to video games, experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and difficulty sleeping when they are unable to play.

What can be done if someone is struggling with video game addiction? There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals who are struggling with video game addiction, including therapy, support groups, and medication.