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Gaming Disorder And Addiction

The World Health Organization (WHO) has decided to classify and recognise non stop gaming as a real disorder for prevention, and treatment.

A gaming disorder is similar to Internet Gaming Disorder which is a diagnosed condition by The International Classification of Diseases (ICD).

The person with the disorder has trouble breaking from the habit, putting gaming first above activities and may even develop negative behaviours.

 

If you have the disorder, what symptoms should you look out for?

 

Signs and symptoms

According to WHO, in order for the person to be diagnosed they must show the following:

• Lack of interest in personal, family, social

• Very limited interest in educational, occupational or other important areas

• Increasing the priority given to gaming over other activities

• A negative change in behaviour that leads to damaging consequences

• Lack of interest in daily activities

 

 

Should you be concerned?

Studies state that not everyone who games should be concerned.

The WHO has suggested that people who partake in gaming should keep track of the amount of time they spend on the activity. Only a small proportion of people who engage in the activity will develop the disorder in their lifetime.

To be sure, monitor the time spent gaming, as well as any changes in physical or psychological health. Any social functioning or any disruptions to daily schedules should be enough to raise an alarm.

 

For more information on gaming disorder, read here: http://www.who.int/features/qa/gaming-disorder/en/

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