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How to deal with video gaming addiction

Published  February 9, 2018 9:04pm MST
Marc Martinez's Reports
FOX 10 Phoenix

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Video gaming is more popular than ever before. In fact, so many people are now spending so much time playing video games, the World Health Organization now says it can become a mental health disorder.

So, how would someone know when it goes from a fun way to pass the time to a serious addiction?

People who suffer from Gaming Disorder exhibit the same issues as those with a substance abuse addiction, and a recent study shows 8.5% of kids from 8 to 18 exhibited pathological video game use.

When it comes to how much kids and adults should spend using their consoles. experts say as with most things, moderation is key.

"Throughout high school, like done with homework, didn't have too many responsibilities and I would play for the rest of the day until I had to go to sleep," said Alex Garza, an ASU student and member of the university's E-Sports club for gamers.

Garza says he's learned to balance the amount of time he spends playing with the other responsibilities he has, as a busy college student.

"Honestly, it's getting a lot harder to just stay and play for, like, four or five hours a day straight," said Garza.

Last month, the World Health Organization added "Gaming Disorder" to it's annual list of "International Classification of Diseases". Gaming Disorder is described as a pattern of persistent gaming that takes precedence over other life interests and daily activities, just like a substance abuse addiction.

Dr. Jack Shier, a psychiatrist in Scottsdale, says says the key thing for parents is to make sure their children's gaming is regulated early on, in order to keep it from becoming an addiction.

Michael Carlton, President of ASU's E-Sports Association agrees, saying while the members of the club all have gaming in common, they also do outside activities as well.

Carlton says he doesn't think gaming addiction is a concern for the group members.

"I think it's because one, when you get older, you realize there's a lot of things wrong if you keep playing, because fatigue exists in gaming. You mentally get exhausted after playing so many games," said Carlton. "I think just moderation is probably the big thing. Just understanding kids will probably play the game regardless, just like how you regulate when they play it, is my first thought."