Much of the focus on American addiction is placed on opioids. While opioids are certainly an epidemic, another addiction crisis is gripping the United States.
In fact, roughly 80 percent of American adults game on a yearly basis. Up to 5 percent of these gamers have an addiction problem.
Specifically, game addiction is affecting the nation’s youth. Approximately 750,000 young Americans, aged 14 to 21, have an addiction issue.
The online gaming industry is making matters worse. Online game presents vulnerable Americans with a $46 billion industry at their fingertips.
Read on to learn how to deal with a game addiction. Explore 5 tips to get help for yourself or a loved one.
- Recognizing the Game Problem
The first and most important step is recognizing the existence of addiction. You cannot seek help and recover without first acknowledging it.
There are a number of signs that game is an issue. Borrowing money to fund game or massive debts are two obvious signs. You can also spot an addiction when a person is constantly talking about game.
- Understand What Triggers Game
Like alcohol and drugs, there are certain life triggers that lead to game. Some use it as an outlet to escape life’s problems.
For example, perhaps you choose to visit the game after a long and stressful day at work. Others choose to gamee when dealing with relationship problems.
- Mitigate These Triggers
Now that you have identified the triggers, it is time to redirect your actions. There are better ways to handle stress or relationship issues than turning to game.
Many people are able to alleviate these emotions by working out at the gym. Others go for a long run or listen to music. The bottom line is to turn away from bad behavior and instead redirect your actions toward healthy activity.
- Tell Others About Your Game Problem
Studies show that telling others about your addiction issues is therapeutic and effective. For this reason, game support groups have formed throughout the United States.
The most famous support group is Game Anonymous (GA). There are over 1700 locations around the country.
GA provides you with a safe space to discuss your issues. They also may assign you a sponsor to directly address your triggers and behaviors.
- Enlist Professional Help
When all else fails, it is time to seek out professional help. There are treatment centers that are outfitted with doctors and specialists.
A treatment center has the ability to try more advanced techniques and prescribe medicine. If you feel a game issue has spiraled out of control, it is time to get more information on treatment centers.
How to Deal with a Game Addiction
Game addictions are a serious ailment and has the ability to derail your life. Many great people blow tens of thousands of dollars on their addiction.
The good news is that a game addiction can be defeated by taking the right steps. If you enjoyed this article about how to deal with a game addiction, check out our blog for more great content.
