Video Game Addiction – How to Avoid it and How to Overcome It?

Games have always been a great passion for many people, whether it be casino games that we like to play or board games or video games. Not only are they fun, but they have also become a profession for many people over the years who like to stream their gaming skills on the internet. When it comes to video games, there is nothing wrong with playing in moderation – they provide a fun escape from our lives into an incredible world where anything is possible. However, when you take gaming too far, it might become an addiction. Gaming addiction is becoming more and more common among younger generations who are used to spending long hours on the internet. It manifests in spending way too much time playing video games, neglecting work and other responsibilities, ignoring people and avoiding social contact, and even in some health problems. But just like with any other addiction, you can find ways to avoid it, or, if you already feel like you have a problem, there are ways you can overcome it. 

How much time do you spend playing video games?

The first question you have to ask yourself is how much time you dedicate to this particular activity. You can do this by tracking your daily activities for one week and seeing how many hours it adds up to. You should also pay attention to how much time you spend watching videos about games on the internet and how often you talk to your friends about them. If it turns out that you play video games more than 25 hours a week, you are technically considered as addicted to video games. If you play them for more than 30 or 40 hours a week, you have a serious gaming addiction. But don’t worry – there are things you can do to overcome it. And if you are on the verge of becoming addicted and want to avoid it, all of these tips can apply to you too. 

Set limits

One of the first things you can do to combat gaming addiction is to set limits for yourself. It is not wise to quit cold turkey, and it also is not necessary – games are not bad for you but playing them too much is. Therefore, you only need to limit the time you spend playing games, not abandon them completely. There are several ways you can limit your game time. For example, you can implement a rule that allows you to play video games only if you finish work and all other responsibilities first. You can also set specific times in a day when it is completely fine to play – for example, one to two hours in the evening or a couple of hours but only on weekends. That way, you can still play your games and enjoy your favorite pastime activity, but you won’t be overdoing it and neglecting life. 

Find other things you love to do

A great thing you can do is find other things that you love and substitute games with them. This is not only beneficial but also very fun – who knows what activities you might be passionate about and not even know about it! This is the perfect time to explore and try different sports, playing instruments, reading, even starting a new business.

The possibilities are endless and you are bound to find something you love just as much you love playing video games. 

Seek help

If you think that it is too difficult to avoid or overcome a gaming addiction on your own, seek help from the people around you. You can ask your family members to take your video games and give them back only when you are allowed to play according to your limits. You can also ask your friends or family to spend time with you doing some other fun activities, such as playing sports, so that you can all have game-free time and enjoy the fresh air. If you feel like the addiction is too serious, you can also seek professional help.

Adele

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