Understanding and Dealing with Media Addiction and Video Game Addiction

Addiction Recovery Journey

What is Media Addiction and Video Game Addiction and How to Recognize It?

In today’s digitally connected world, media and video game addiction have become increasingly prevalent issues. You might be wondering, what exactly constitutes addiction to media or video games? How do you know if you or someone you care about is addicted? And most importantly, what can you do about it? This blog post aims to address these crucial questions and more, offering deep insights into the statistics, effects, and treatment options available for media and video game addiction.

Parents and guardians often ask, “How much screen time is too much for my child?” Meanwhile, teenagers may question, “Does spending hours on video games make me an addict?” Understanding the signs, impacts, and available treatments for media and video game addiction can equip you with the tools needed to take appropriate action.

For a human touch, reach out and see how we can assist you or your loved one today – give our professional staff team a call at 604-525-9771.

Statistics on Media and Video Game Addiction

• As of April 2020, 59% of the global population were active internet users, exposing a large portion of society to potential addiction risks.
• Internet addiction, which encompasses game addiction and social media addiction, affects an estimated 1.5 to 8.2 percent of people in North America.
• Video gaming addiction can result in an array of negative outcomes such as poor academic performance, social isolation, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
• Addiction to social media has its own set of challenges including reduced attention span, low self-esteem, and impaired social skills.
• Other forms of internet addiction, like online gambling and pornography, can lead to severe consequences including financial troubles and loss of intimacy.

Percentage of Canadians Aged 15-64 Experiencing Negative Effects of Social Media Use

The Impact of Media and Video Game Addiction

The detrimental effects of media and video game addiction are not restricted to excessive time spent online but extend to mental, physical, and social domains. The following sections highlight the multifaceted impacts these addictions can have.

Social Media Impacts:

• Overuse of social media can result in reduced attention span, increased levels of anxiety, and a distorted self-image, driven by the constant comparison to others.
• It can disrupt sleep patterns, lead to cyberbullying, and negatively affect real-world relationships.
• Furthermore, a longitudinal study suggests that individuals with moderate to severe risk of Internet addiction are 2.5 times more likely to develop depressive symptoms compared to their addiction-free counterparts.
• Internet addiction has been shown to increase the risk of poor academic performance, harmful personality effects, and further anxiety and depression.

Video Game Impacts:

• Video game addiction can be particularly detrimental to young individuals, hampering their social skills development, academic achievement, and physical health.
• The immersive nature of modern video games can engender a detachment from reality, exacerbating existing mental health conditions.

General Media Overuse:

• Compulsive consumption of digital media, whether it’s streaming services, music, or other online content, can foster social isolation, sleep disturbances, and a lack of physical activity.
• The repetitive cycle of media consumption can serve as an escapist mechanism, hindering individuals from facing real-world challenges and developing coping strategies.

Treatment Options for Media and Video Game Addiction

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for internet and video gaming addiction.
• Medications may be used to treat underlying mental health conditions contributing to addiction.
• Self-help groups and peer support can be invaluable in the addiction recovery journey.
• Specialist treatment centers now offer digital detox programs to help individuals disconnect from digital media.
• Individual and group therapy are common treatments that can provide significant support in controlling technology use.
• Interpersonal psychotherapy techniques are also employed to address underlying psychosocial issues often co-existing with this addiction.
• Family therapy offers a holistic approach to understanding and combating addiction.
• Parent workshops can be instrumental in equipping parents with the tools to regulate their child’s media usage.
• For severe cases, residential treatment services offer an intensive environment that can include specialized group and individual counseling sessions focused on addiction recovery.

Is Residential Treatment Right for You or Your Loved One?

Deciding on residential treatment is a significant step towards recovery for individuals struggling with media and video game addiction. Last Door Recovery Society’s bed-based addiction treatment services provide a structured and supportive environment conducive to overcoming the challenges associated with these modern-day addictions. Here are some factors and scenarios to consider when evaluating whether residential treatment is the right choice for you or a loved one:

Indicators:

• Persisting Addiction: If the addiction continues unabated despite attempts at outpatient treatments.
• Impact on Daily Life: When addiction interferes with responsibilities, work, or education, causing a noticeable decline in quality of life.
• Physical or Mental Health Consequences: Experiencing severe physical or mental health issues as a result of unmanaged addiction.
• Disrupted Family Dynamics: If the addiction has led to strained relationships or a disrupted family environment.

Common Considerations:

• Financial Feasibility: Evaluate the financial aspect of residential treatment, including insurance coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
• Work or School Impact: Consider the implications on work or educational commitments and discuss with employers or educational institutions if necessary.
• Medical Needs: Assess any specialized medical attention that might be required during the treatment period.
• Commitment: Recognize the commitment involved in an extended stay away from home and regular activities, and prepare for the transformative journey towards recovery.

If you are a parent considering residential treatment for your child, we want you to understand the comprehensive support and structured environment that Last Door Recovery Society provides. Here’s how residential treatment can be instrumental:

Structured Environment: A regulated, distraction-free setting that promotes healthy routines and coping mechanisms.
Professional Support: Access to experienced therapists and counselors specializing in media and video game addiction.
Peer Community: Opportunities for your child to interact with peers facing similar challenges, fostering a sense of understanding and communal support.
Family Involvement: Family therapy and parental workshops to equip you with the knowledge and tools to support your child’s recovery journey.

If you need additional support with a loved one, please reach out to us at 604-525-9771 and our professional staff team would be happy to discuss how we can help. Read more about our media addiction and video game addiction services.

For Parents

Parents may find themselves baffled, concerned, or even frustrated with their child’s obsession with video games or social media. Understanding that this could be a genuine problem like any other addiction is the first step towards intervention and support.

Identifying Signs of Addiction

Here are some signs parents should be aware of:

• Excessive time spent on gaming or social media.
• Neglect of schoolwork, family time, and other responsibilities.
• Defensive or aggressive behavior when confronted about screen time.
• Withdrawal from outdoor activities and social engagements.

Steps to Take

• Open Dialogue: Approach your child for an open and non-judgmental conversation about their online activities.
• Consult Professionals: If the behavior continues, consider involving a mental health specialist proficient in the field of addiction treatment.
• Be Involved: Take time to understand the games or social media platforms your child uses. This provides invaluable insight into why they find it so engaging.
• Set Boundaries: Create a balanced schedule for your child that includes ample time for studies, physical activities, and limited screen time.
• Monitor Activity: Make use of parental control software to monitor and regulate your child’s online actions.

For Teens and Youth

If you’re a teen struggling with game addiction or social media addiction, know that you’re not alone and help is available.

Identifying Signs of Addiction

You might be addicted if you experience the following:

• Feeling restless or irritable when not able to play video games or check social media.
• Constantly thinking about the next time you can play or engage online.
• Neglecting schoolwork, social commitments, or even personal hygiene for the sake of staying online.

Steps to Take

• Self-Assessment: Ask yourself, ‘Is my online activity affecting other areas of my life adversely?’
• Talk About It: If you find it hard to control your activity, don’t shy away from seeking help. Talk to a trusted adult or counselor.
• Set Goals: Create achievable goals to gradually reduce your screen time.
• Engage Elsewhere: Take up physical activities or hobbies to divert your attention.

For more information and resources, you can visit the following sources:

• Canadians’ assessments of social media in their lives
• Canadian Internet Use Survey, 2020
• Canadian statistics on media, video game, or internet addiction
• Gaming penetration in Canada
• Video game addiction: Does it exist?
• Video Game Addiction: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment
• Video Game Addiction: How to Stop
• Gaming Disorder and Its Treatment
• Therapy for Internet Addiction
• NHS treats hundreds with gaming disorders
• Pornography Addiction

For personalized treatment options for media addiction, video game addiction, or media overuse disorder, reach out to Last Door Recovery Society at 604-525-9771.

 

Disclaimer: While we have used a best effort approach in ensuring completeness and correctness, this blog post is informational and should not substitute for professional medical advice.