What is Gaming Addiction? Signs, Consequences & How to Recognize It

Nowadays, gaming is no longer a simple recreational pastime. With the rapid development of technology and the internet, online gaming has become an indispensable part of life for many Vietnamese people, from children to adults. However, behind this irresistible appeal lies a hidden danger:What is gaming addictionand the unforeseeable consequences it brings.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized gaming disorder as a mental and behavioral disorder. This is not merely an excessive hobby or a bad habit, but a pathological condition that needs to be taken seriously and treated promptly. This condition is characterized by a persistent lack of control over gaming behavior, prioritizing gaming over all other activities, and continuing to game despite negative consequences.

Signs of game addiction

To determine whether someone is suffering from gaming addiction, we need to observe and recognize specific behaviors. These are clear signs that gaming has crossed the line from entertainment and become a concerning problem:

Loss of control over gaming

Game addicts will face serious difficulties in controlling the duration, intensity, and frequency of their gaming sessions. They might set a goal of "just one more hour," but then continue to sit in front of the screen for hours on end. Even when they realize that gaming is consuming too much of their time, they still cannot stop.

Prioritize gaming

Games become the center of all activities in the addict's life. Previous hobbies, social activities, and personal responsibilities (studies, work, family) are all put aside or neglected to spend time on games. For example, a student might skip important classes at a university like Hanoi University of Science and Technology to stay home and "grind ranks" in League of Legends, or an office worker might stay up all night playing online games instead of getting enough sleep to work effectively the next morning.

Continue playing games despite facing consequences

This is a key sign. Despite being clearly aware of the negative impacts that gaming has on their health, studies, work, or relationships (e.g., being scolded by parents, warned by their boss, or alienated by friends), addicts continue to maintain this habit. They may feel remorse or want to change, but are unable to break free from the gaming loop.

"Withdrawal" symptoms when not playing

When forced to stop playing games or without the opportunity to play, addicts may experience negative reactions similar to stimulant withdrawal symptoms. Manifestations include irritability, anxiety, sadness, restlessness, quick temper, or even trembling hands, difficulty sleeping. These symptoms indicate a deep dependency of the body and mind on gaming.

The unpredictable consequences of game addiction

The consequences of gaming addiction are not limited to affecting individuals but also extend to other aspects of life, impacting families and society.

Impact on physical health

Gaming addicts often lead unhealthy lifestyles. They may skip meals, eat erratically, and suffer from severe sleep deprivation (studies show that up to 60% of gaming addicts experience sleep problems). Sitting in one place for long periods not only causes spinal and vision problems (over 70% of regular gamers experience eye problems after a few years) but also leads to physical exhaustion and reduced immunity. Brain function is also affected due to lack of sleep and nutrients, resulting in poor concentration and slow reactions.

Mental health issues

Psychological impact is one of the most serious consequences. Game addiction can lead to depression, anxiety, feelings of loneliness and uselessness. Players may feel guilty for not being able to control themselves, or live in a virtual world to escape reality. In some extreme cases, spending too much time in the game world can lead to delusions, difficulty distinguishing between real and virtual, or developing aggressive, violent behavioral tendencies (especially when playing games with strong violent elements).

Impairment of social functions

When gaming dominates, natural social relationships are affected. Game addicts tend to isolate themselves from family, friends, and outside society. They may neglect their studies, leading to poor results or even dropping out. At work, performance declines, they are often late, absent, or fail to complete tasks, directly impacting their careers. According to statistics in Vietnam, there are many cases of students dropping out of school midway due toWhat is game addictionhas become a serious problem in life. Family relationships also fractured due to conflicts over gaming time and personal responsibilities.

Gaming addiction is not a hobby, it's a disease

It is important to clarify: gaming addiction is not simply a common hobby or a bad habit that can be easily abandoned. This is a complex medical condition, requiring professional intervention and treatment. Like other forms of addiction, gaming addicts need support from family, friends, and medical professionals.

In Vietnam, many hospitals and psychological centers have begun implementing support programs for gaming addicts. For example, the Central Mental Hospital 1 and private psychological clinics in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have admitted and treated hundreds of cases each year. Treatment methods often include psychotherapy (CBT - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), family counseling, and in some cases, medication to control co-occurring anxiety and depression symptoms.

Correct perception ofWhat is game addictionand its consequences is the first step to help those who are experiencing this problem. Early detection of signs and seeking timely support will help game addicts escape the vicious cycle, reintegrate into life, and avoid serious long-term consequences, especially for the younger generation, the future of the country.

For reference only. Please consult a doctor or mental health professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.