Internet and Gaming Disorder

Internet Gaming Disorder involves a pattern of persistent and recurrent engagement with online or offline video games leading to significant impairment in personal, social, occupational, or academic functioning. Symptoms include preoccupation with gaming, withdrawal symptoms when not playing, tolerance, and loss of interest in other activities. It is included in the ICD-11 and identified as a condition for further study in the DSM-5.

⚠️Symptoms

• Preoccupation with internet games
• Withdrawal symptoms when gaming is taken away
• Tolerance (need to spend increasing time gaming)
• Unsuccessful attempts to control gaming
• Loss of interest in other activities
• Continued gaming despite problems

🔍Causes

• Brain reward system activation similar to substance addiction
• Social isolation or poor social skills
• Co-occurring depression or anxiety
• Easy access to gaming platforms

💊Treatment Options

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Family therapy
• Digital wellness education
• Building alternative activities and social connections