Maybe it’s the bout of Fortnite turned into a whole day marathon that convinced you. What was once an enjoyable hobby has become a raging obsession. Perhaps you have heard from your parents or spouse as well, complaining about the state of things.
You cannot deny that games can have a positive influence. Studies show that they can help improve memory capacity. They can help stimulate brain activity. But too much of a good thing can be a bad thing.
The symptoms of video game addiction include social isolation for gameplay, secretly playing at odd hours, and anxiety when not playing games. Despite not being recognized by the American Medical Association, it can cause real-life problems. Loss of sleep cycles, migraines, and carpal tunnel syndrome are some early signs of this.
If you have been exhibiting any of the above signs, you may have a gaming obsession. But it is never too late for a change. Here’s what you can do
1. Getting Advice from Experts
Sometimes, when somebody has an obsession with gaming, there are often other factors in play. They may be running away from the realities of a stressful job or escaping from a personal loss. Some may even be using it to mask depression.
In such cases, it is vital to address the situation and seek professional help. This method is beneficial for the parents of minors suffering from this problem. A large amount of the recovery relies on how they broach the subject of therapy to their kids. Doctors can help guide them through behavioral therapy and mental health counseling.
2. Limiting Gaming Time
It is near impossible to quit an addiction in one go. Try cutting down on your game time bit by bit. Meanwhile, make an effort to engage with your friends and family. Go out for a walk or try exercising. Just do things that will keep gaming off your mind.
Stop the usage of any electronic device two hours before your bedtime. Blue light helps melatonin in the brain and can lead to you being alert late into the night. Keeping your phones and gaming consoles away from your bedroom would be more beneficial.
Cutting down one by one on your game titles and systems has also been known to help. Try limiting your gameplay to just one system.
3. Prioritizing Relationships over Gaming
Social seclusion is one of the symptoms of this condition. Such a thing happens when a person abandons responsibilities to indulge in gaming. People have shared experiences of calling in sick for work, ignoring calls from friends and family. Data and gaming equipment are at high prices, so financial difficulties are also common for gaming addictions.
As difficult as it is, try to reconnect with family. Try making amends with friends you have ignored as a result of your gaming. You can also get yourself a new hobby. Choose gardening or yoga, something that will help you relax instead of getting your adrenaline pumping.