Post 4 : Solutions to video game addiction

Reacting as soon as possible is essential to limit the impact of this addiction. The game addict can hardly limit himself, on the other hand, in the time spent playing can be controlled by a parent or a close relative.

In a child or a teenager

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A video game can be positive if it is perfectly adapted to the age of the child or teenager, and if the time spent on it is reasonable. It should not interfere with family life, schooling, sleep and leisure time. It can also be an activity to be shared with the family. When kids are playing alone, it's a good idea to keep the video game area in the family area of the house. This way, the young person is not isolated in front of the screen and it is easier to limit the time spent on this activity.

Parents who are at a loss when their child becomes addicted to video games can turn to their doctor. The young person can then be taken in charge by a psychologist specialized in addictological practices.

To remember: - Control your child's screen time - Check what they are doing and whether they are respecting the time limit - Take care to note changes in the child's behavior or school results - Do not hesitate to ask for professional help - Prohibiting access to video games is not necessarily a solution, it should only be limited and monitored

In an adult

The problem with an adult who is addicted to video games is that he or she generally refuses to discuss the issue, or even denies the problem. It is therefore often the people around the gamer who will consult a professional rather than the gamer himself, at least at the beginning of the procedure. This is because the family or friends often do not know what to do and are faced with a withdrawal of the person, who may even become violent if they try to stop him or her from gambling.

It is important for the person's family and friends to be aware of the changes in the gambler's behaviour and to support him or her through each ordeal, so that the gambler does not become lonely and sad, withdrawing into himself or herself, which could lead to even greater psychological damage.

In the end, the treatment of this type of disorder is done through individual or family consultations. It may also be necessary to hospitalize the patient for a short period of time in order to take stock of the situation and to encourage the gambler and his or her family to take a step back and reflect on the situation.

Group approaches can also be considered, and they generally give good results.

However, in order to be effective, this treatment must be spread out over time. This is the only way to ensure the development of relational capacities and the reconstitution of sufficient narcissistic foundations.

A multidisciplinary approach is often recommended, which may involve a doctor, a psychologist, an addictologist, a social worker, an educator, etc.

Little advices: - Banning access to video games is not a solution, an addicted gamer will always find a way to continue playing, at friends' houses in cybercafés, etc., and it will then be even more difficult to keep an eye on him. - The best thing to do is to take a real interest in the game by trying to learn about it and talk to the player about it, so that you can understand the interest in the game. - Try to set up time limits for games. - Insist on keeping meals together, talking, and spending time with them. - Set conditions for gaming, e.g., only after completing schoolwork, only in the common room, etc.

Note: Sometimes an addiction to video games actually hides underlying problems that need to be addressed with a professional.