Gaming disorder came about in the 1980s and has since increased as gaming industries have gained more ground.

Gaming disorder is the persistent gaming behavior one develops in which one loses control of their gaming patterns, prioritizing gaming over other aspects of their lives.

Studies show that throughout the years, there has been a great increase in diagnosis of those struggling with gaming disorders and these peaks have been increasing constantly.

However, when the pandemic hit, quarantine itself and its side consequences such as loneliness, poor mental health, stress, less parental support, and more has led to one’s great dependency on gaming.

In fact, those diagnosed with gaming disorder have spiked all around the world.

Gaming is one of many process addictions, which are behaviors that activate the brain’s reward center. Therefore, this constant feeding behavior of gaming has led to the increase in the level of dopamine released in the brain, allowing gamers to obtain a reinforced pleasure that one is likely to come back for in the future.

Considering this, there have been further downsides to gaming addictions that are problematic when having to return back to pre pandemic life. Some of these issues are a disruption of existing relationships, mood swings, lack of productivity, and generally lower competence which can lead to anxiety, and many other psychological problems. All of these issues would have developed as a result of a gaming addiction.

There are various ways to help limit one’s gaming needs. One way to start is to set and stick to the set time limits scheduled. Moreover, these time limits can be set like a reward system where one is treating themselves with time for games after including something necessary to complete into one’s schedule.

When time off the game becomes difficult, one can also keep gaming gadgets out of sight or even trap apps and other extensions to prevent access to the games.

During times off games, one can also replace gaming time with healthy activities including exercise to distract oneself from their desired thoughts for gaming.

This can not only help get one off gaming but this can also improve health. If all does not fully resolve one’s struggling with gaming, they can get professional help such as receiving medications to reduce cravings, cognitive behavioral therapy (which helps alter unwanted behavior patterns), and much more.

Michelle Yoo

Northwood High School 11th Grade

<Michelle Yoo / Northwood High School 11th Grade>