Video Games Addiction

WHAT IS VIDEO GAMES ADDICTION?
Video game addiction is described as an impulse control disorder.

WHAT CAN WE DO INSTEAD OF VIDEO GAMES?
•Take the entire family outside for a walk, game or picnic
•Play “old-fashioned” board games as a family
•Join a club or sports team
•Get a pet and take responsibility for its care
•Read a good book at the library
•Take a class like music, art

VIDEO GAMES ADDICTION WARNING SIGNS
Spending a lot of time gaming doesn't necessarily qualify as an addiction.
Some warning signs of game addiction:
•Most non-school hours are spent on the computer or playing video games
•Falling asleep in school
•Falling behind with assignments
•Worsening grades
•Lying about computer or video game use
•Choosing to use the computer or play video games, rather than see friends
•Dropping out of other social groups (clubs or sports)
•Being irritable when not playing a video game or being on the computer


EFFECTS OF VIDEO GAMES ADDICTION
Physical consequences of gaming addiction include carpal tunnel, migraines, sleep disturbances, backaches, eating irregularities, and poor personal hygiene.
Some of the physical consequences of video game addiction can lead to social consequences as well. For instance, an addicted gamer who loses sleep.Lack of sleep may also make him irritable and difficult to be around.
Social consequences are a very real part of gaming addiction. Addicted gamers spend so much time playing that their personal relationships get neglected and sometimes disappear altogether.

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO?
Video game addiction is a real concern for parents. With video game addiction on the rise, parents are urged to take action. They will get more information and help other people who are addicted. They will share how we can avoid this addiction.
•Limit video game playing time.
•Keep video and computer games out of bedrooms.
•Doing different outdoor activities everyday.