Gaming disorder

Though playing games give the thrill of winning, it can lead to a disorder that can cause serious physical, mental, behavioural and psychological health issues which are difficult to cure, says Anna Chandy

Gaming addiction is increasingly becoming a problem faced by many today. The World Health Organisation recently added gaming disorder to its International Classification of Diseases. What starts as a simple form of recreation can often become an addiction over time. Video and computer games are all about rewards and recognition at each level. This anticipation of rewards starts a neurological reaction by releasing dopamine into the body.

Once the gamer obtains this reward, the brain records it as a pleasurable feeling, making him want to re-experience the feeling so they play again and again.

Research has found that this is the same reaction as associated with a gambling addiction. Some people also find gaming to be an effective means of social engagement. They develop a sense of comfort with fellow-gamers whom they meet only virtually.

Addiction to games usually begins as a desire to play more and more over time. The person may become irritable, anxious, or miserable when they are unable to play the game. Some other signs and symptoms to watch out for include weight loss or gain, sleep disruptions, mood changes, social isolation and poor work performance. In addition to this, there could be physical symptoms such as fatigue, pain, burning and tingling, and weakness.

What makes it addictive?

Game designers focus on mechanisms that draw players in and cash in on the rewards and recognition experience. For instance, a leaderboard that lets you compare your scores with others who are playing. These games also have purchasable in-game content which can help enhance the character or the gaming experience altogether.

Each level in a game provides the player with some reward, points or rare items that makes it more exciting. Research also indicates that games have a ‘high social component’ where players share tips and strategies with others, which can further make them addictive. Above everything, it is the feeling of success and precedence over others that can give gamers a sense of pride and achievement.

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that is disrupting all sectors today. While it has many benefits, its usage in the world of gaming has sometimes proven to be detrimental. A classic example of this is PokemonGo which made way for things that could be perceived through the game but were not present in the real world. So deep was the impact that people even walked into traffic, got fired or mugged, and abandoned real work to chase Pokemons.

Another disadvantage is the effects of playing an avatar on screen which has traits that the person may not possess otherwise — height, weight, attractiveness and age. This may overlap with real life beyond a point and cause problems.

The effect

Many studies have documented the physical and mental health issues that gaming addiction can cause. People who are habituated playing computer or video games can show signs of impaired social functioning, sleeplessness, and anxiety. Given that such games provide the thrill of winning and achieving, they stimulate a plethora of emotions in players. Some can even experience anger and frustration or become aggressive. Risk behaviours include getting into debt, ignoring responsibility or depriving oneself of sleep.

Most computer games are played alone and interacting with only machines can lead to a sense of isolation. Sitting in one position for a prolonged period can affect posture and the musculoskeletal system, thereby causing aches and pains. People also tend to neglect normal diet and hygiene. Playing games constantly stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and increases the heart and respiration rates. Constant stimulation of the human fight/ flight response can also prove detrimental to health.

Managing the addiction

Fixing an addiction to video games, like all other addictions, can be a difficult process but is not impossible. First, it is important to recognise and understand that one is addicted to gaming. Some tips to de-addict oneself are as follows

• Do not stop suddenly. Start slowly and aim for realistic results. Set a specific number of hours (or minutes) aside for gaming.
• Eliminate the number of devices you own. Play only on one system. Owning too many of them can be a deterrent to reducing the number of hours you spend on gaming every day. Avoid multi-player games as well.
• Take a break and go out.  Once in a while, stand up, walk around, and stretch your body for a few minutes. Choose games with physical activity such as those that require you to stand and move your body. This will ensure that you do not sit in the front of the screen for a long time.
• Include your family. Play together as this will limit the time you spend in a game. This will also teach moderation to your children.
• Understand the underlying cause. Many people become addicted to gaming due to some underlying issue. Determine what this may be and seek help.
• Find other hobbies. Find something else to keep you busy such as a hobby you may have wanted to pursue for a long time.

The writer is chairperson of The Live Love Laugh Foundation’s Board of Trustees