Strategies for Preventing Gaming Addiction in Youth

Over the years, reports have proven that gaming networks have some structural positives to offer youth, like problem-solving skills and critical thinking. On the other hand, players have revealed its relevance in improving their concentration, memory, and ability to prioritize teamwork. However, the negatives sometimes far outweigh these advantages, especially when addiction starts to set in. Even game providers and casino sites like Spin City  preach against the problems of gaming and gambling addiction. With growing awareness of these vices, let’s discuss some preventive measures to help.

Understanding Behavioral Addiction in Gaming

Gaming compulsion falls under a category of obsessive habits called behavioral addiction. Generally, behavioral addiction occurs when certain behaviors trigger the brain’s reward system, making it hard to stop. The system by which these mobile games operate makes it convenient because the rewards fuel participation. One of the primary reasons people play games is for stress relief, but it goes beyond this, extending to other reasons like getting a sense of accomplishment and escaping from reality. Consistent interaction with this system pushes players to participate consistently without much regard for adverse consequences that might follow. So how do you cub it? Before getting to that, knowing how to spot the signs early is integral. Some warning signs that addiction is on the rise include:

• Neglecting friends and family;
• Terrible personal hygiene;
• Going beyond time limits every time you play a game;
• Becoming angry, anxious, and irritable when unable to play games;
• Emotional outbursts from the inability to play.

How to Prevent Gaming Addiction

If you’ve found yourself exhibiting any of the attitudes listed above, below are some easy steps that can help:

Setting a Time Limit

Typically, game addicts spend about 8-10 hours  of their day playing video games. If your usual time on this hobby exceeds or remains within that range, now is the time to cut it short. In addition to some of the apparent vices we’ve listed in this article, spending so much time sitting also has adverse health effects, like obesity. Studies have linked being overweight, obese, type 2 diabetes, and other health challenges to a sedentary lifestyle. The ideal screen time for entertainment is capped at a maximum of  4 hours daily. Setting a daily limit of 4-5  hours and sticking to it is the first step towards cubbing your obsession. Set an alarm and reminder to help yourself stick to the time. Consider other physical activities that can help you improve your overall well-being, like running or joining a gym.

Keep Devices from Your Bedroom

Having a gaming console sitting opposite your bed is never going to ease your obsession. So, consider introducing some structural changes, like ridding your bedroom of any gaming devices. Aside from the apparent fact that you would be able to avoid temptation, you would also get better sleep hours and improve your overall mental health. At the same time, a designated gaming room is a better approach for enhancing your experience.

Explore Other Interests and Hobbies

Spending hours and hours on other habits and relationships helps because every positive social interaction you make reduces dependency on gaming for socialization. Spend quality time with friends and family offline to foster healthy relationships outside gaming. Nature activities like whitewater rafting and hiking can help. Art, dancing, or any other interest of your choice can help take your mind off the compulsion to play. The aim is to find an activity worthwhile and exciting enough for you to forget about video games occasionally.

Seek Professional Help

Professional help for addiction can be essential because gaming addiction shares characteristics with other — behavioral ones. We’ve already established that these habits can significantly impact mental health, relationships, academic or career performance, and overall well-being. A professional can help you understand the underlying causes of your unchecked needs and build healthy coping strategies. Also, you might get the chance to meet people in a similar situation and connect with them as a support system while working out your challenges.

Embracing Healthy Habits

It’s an unhealthy misconception to assume that you have to spend hours of unchecked time playing games to enjoy them. Playing responsibly is a better approach, especially if you are looking to keep better mental health and maintain your experiences as a source of stress relief rather than an obsession. The tips listed above can act as preventive or countermeasures, depending on where you are at with your habits. Take whatever point works with you, and make conscious efforts to check yourself occasionally.