Video games are a normal part of many teenagers’ lives. But how do you know if you have a hobby or an addiction?

What is video game addiction?

Video game addiction is very real, and the consequences are similar to drug or alcohol addiction. Everyone starts by casually playing video games; then, eventually, people neglect everything else around them and focus the majority of their time playing on their video games. Although the American Medical Association (AMA) doesn’t recognize it as an official disorder; however they have announced the warning signs, the results of internet overuse, and more information.

Phones aren’t excluded

This doesn’t only occur on gaming consoles or computers. The American Addiction Center (AAC) proved that gaming addiction can occur on a handheld device, and smartphones are just another way to get addicted. Anyone can get addicted to any game, on any device. This isn’t just small issue affecting a few. People of all ages, from all over the world, are suffering from the effects of addiction every day.

A very serious issue

This addiction can be compared to other addictions. Peter Gray Ph.D. compared video game addiction to gambling addiction. The only difference is gambling may result in losing more money; the fact that there is a chance you could win or improve your current state, triggers the addiction. Some consider video game addiction as an impulse-control disorder (ICD), the failure to resist an urge or impulse; so it’s similar to a drug or alcohol addiction.

Warning signs and symptoms

According to the AMA, some factors that increase the chances of video game addiction are low self-esteem, poor social skills, staying home doing nothing, no parental supervision when home, and no responsibility. Some gaming addicts drop out of school just for the extra gaming time. Additional symptoms include:

• Declining grades
• Making video games a priority
• Anxiety
• Lying
• Depression
• Weight Gain
• Insomnia (sleep deprivation)

How video games can help

Video games aren’t always negative. In moderation, they can actually reduce stress and depression symptoms. Some people even make money by recording their gameplay and uploading on websites like Youtube or Twitch. Some studies even prove that video games can help overcome dyslexia. But everyone should understand the difference between a hobby and an out of hand addiction.

How to avoid gaming disaster

It’s important to do more research more about this if you are concerned. To avoid video gaming addiction you can: set a timer on how long you’re gaming, leave the house more often, find other activities you enjoy that don’t include technology, and seek help from family or a doctor if you are concerned about your gaming habits. Don’t ignore your symptoms; repressing the facts won’t help anyone. According to a Oxford University article, an average teenager should spend no more than 60-90 minutes per day playing video games, including games on smartphones, computers, consoles, and any other gaming device out there.

Don’t make video games your life. Enjoy life before you become an adult and realized you’ve dedicated your high school life to pixels.