Internet or gaming addiction
Overview
Internet or gaming addiction is a behavioral condition characterized by excessive, compulsive use of online activities or video games that interferes with daily life and responsibilities. This addiction involves loss of control over internet or gaming habits, leading to significant impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
Common Causes
Excessive internet or gaming use can disrupt your brain's natural reward system, leading to compulsive behaviors similar to other addictions. Poor sleep habits from late-night screen time, social isolation, and neglecting physical activities can worsen these patterns. Stress, anxiety, or depression often drive people to seek escape through digital activities, creating a cycle where online engagement becomes the primary coping mechanism. Lack of structured daily routines and limited face-to-face social connections can make virtual worlds feel more appealing than real-life responsibilities.
Severity Levels
Mild: You may notice yourself spending more time online or gaming than planned, occasionally missing social activities or responsibilities. Sleep patterns might be slightly disrupted, but you can still maintain most daily routines and relationships.
Moderate: Internet or gaming use significantly interferes with work, school, or family time on a regular basis. You experience noticeable distress when unable to access games or the internet, and important responsibilities are frequently neglected.
Severe: Online activities or gaming completely dominate your daily life, causing serious problems in relationships, work, or school. You feel unable to control your usage despite major negative consequences, and may experience physical symptoms like sleep deprivation or poor hygiene.
Medical Attention
Seek professional help if your internet or gaming habits are causing problems with work, school, or relationships that you can't control on your own. Consider getting support if family members express serious concerns about your online behavior, or if you experience physical health issues like sleep problems, headaches, or neglecting basic needs. It's time to reach out to a healthcare provider or counselor if you've tried to reduce your usage multiple times without success, or if you feel anxious or distressed when unable to access the internet or games.
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