“Leveling Up: Understanding Gaming Addiction Among Students”

This page discusses definitions related to gaming disorder, video game dependency, and internet gaming disorder, alongside the support and resources accessible to you.

What is gaming disorder?

Gaming disorder, video game dependency, and internet gaming disorder all describe the compulsive engagement in video games and the inability to regulate gaming behavior. Various forms of gaming, including video games, console games, or online gaming, can contribute to this condition.

Gaming disorder is an addictive behavior characterized by persistent overindulgence in games for lengthy periods. Engaging in gaming to a degree that disrupts your daily life and interpersonal relationships, yet feeling incapable of ceasing, suggests the presence of gaming disorder.

Excessive gaming over an extended period can inflict harm on both your mental and physical wellbeing. The risks associated with gaming disorder, both short-term and long-term, encompass but are not restricted to:

• Psychological reliance on gaming.
• Decline in academic or professional performance.
• Disruptions in sleep or insomnia.
• Anxiety and agitation.
• Dopamine dependency.
• Poor mental wellbeing.
• Pain in joints including wrists, elbows, and neck.
• Elevated chances of obesity.

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Aid and resources

If you are facing challenges related to gaming, or if you know someone who is, please remember that you are not isolated. As a registered student, you can access confidential and free support at UCL. Our compassionate team is available to help you identify the most suitable treatment options for your requirements.

Additionally, numerous services and websites can assist you in better comprehending and managing gaming disorders and dependencies.

Gaming Addicts Anonymous

Gaming Addicts Anonymous is a fellowship led by peers. The organization hosts regular community meetings to aid recovery from eating disorders.

You can participate in a GAA online meeting or an in-person local support group via the search tool.

For assistance, you can contact the organization via email at helpline@gaais.org.

Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous

Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous is another peer-led fellowship. This organization organizes regular group meetings in local areas to assist recovery from internet addiction disorder, social media dependency, gaming addiction, pornography addiction, and compulsive online shopping.

Participate in an ITAA online meeting or an in-person local support group using the provided search tool.

For inquiries, you can reach the organization at helpline@gaais.org.

NHS National Centre for Gaming Disorders

The National Centre for Gaming Disorders is a multidisciplinary NHS clinic that provides treatment for individuals in England facing challenges with their gaming habits or aiding a loved one.

The centre offers assistance to individuals aged 13 and older. CBT therapy sessions are carried out by consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, and family therapists. The team facilitates individual treatment, group therapy, workshops for parents, peer support groups, and family counseling.

You can discover more about the services and learn how to make a referral on their website.

Explore the NHS National Centre for Gaming Disorders website.

YoungMinds

The YoungMinds charity provides a webpage addressing gaming and mental health issues. This webpage offers extensive guidance on healthy gaming practices and how to seek support if necessary.

Visit the YoungMinds Gaming and Mental Health webpage.