Finding Gaming Addiction Treatment in Kona

For anyone who has ever played a video game, they know they can be both great fun, as well as a great distraction. Video games have been a part of our culture for over half a decade, ranging from simplistic single player concepts, to the most complex online multi player worlds. And, as with anything engaging and rewarding, a video game hobby can become addicting.

In this blog, we’ll talk about video game addiction and accessing gaming addiction treatment in Kona, Hawaii.

What is video game addiction?

Video game addiction (VGA) is the prolonged repetitive and compulsive playing of video games. If, for instance, you play video games every night, that’s not necessarily an addiction. Or perhaps you spent around 8 hours on a new game because it was novel to you; that is also not addiction. Being engaged in video gaming becomes a problem when you find it hard to stop or reduce your gaming time despite the negative consequences that are starting to arise from your play. It is officially diagnosed as an addiction if your gaming behavior has begun affecting other aspects of your life.

As mentioned earlier, not everyone who plays video games for long periods of time has an addiction. Some people might spend a day off playing video games, and not return to it for some time afterward. Others, however, may find it nearly impossible to either step away from their games, or if they do, find themselves thinking about and missing the games so much that it is preventing them from being present in their real life.

The first step in any recovery process is always around seeing and recognizing that a problem exists. When it comes to determining if someone potentially has a video gaming addiction, they can start by being aware of the time spent gaming. Having an awareness around this particular type of screen time can potentially help prevent gaming behavior from cutting into one’s responsibilities. Additionally, a person can cultivate mindfulness around whether their gaming seems to be having an effect on other areas of their life, such as their health or their ability to socially interact with others. A willingness to be aware of these things can help determine if they need professional help or if they only need to cut back on their gaming.

Signs and symptoms

People who suffer from video game addiction tend to put gaming above other aspects of their life. That means they are playing video games instead of going to work or school, or even spending time with their family. Others may neglect to take care of their personal hygiene, preferring instead to spend every free moment in their games.

Video game addiction has the same symptoms as other behavioral addictions. Unfortunately, this also means that video game addiction can worsen their physical, emotional, and psychological state.

Symptoms

• Finds it hard to stop thinking about gaming

• Compulsive urge to play video games for longer periods

• Finding it difficult to prevent or control the act of playing video games

• Feeling irritable, restless, or depressed when trying to stop

• Poor performance at work or school

• Ignoring or neglecting relationships

• Lying to others about their gaming activities

• Uses gaming to escape problems or negative feelings

• Giving up other interests over gaming

• Forgetting or failing to eat or sleep

• Weight gain/loss

• Back or neck pain

• Headaches

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Do you notice these signs or symptoms in yourself or someone you know? It’s best to get help before it worsens and affects other important aspects of your life.

Treatment for gaming addiction

Behavioral conditions are usually treated with therapies and mutual support groups. The same goes for video game addiction. And for children and teens suffering from it, professionals recommend family therapy as well.

Cognitive behavioral therapy will change negative thoughts and behaviors that influence video game addiction. Another form of therapy is wilderness therapy. This involves having the patient go outdoors and escape technology. Doing so will boost their confidence and help them connect with others. Group and 12-step therapies, meanwhile, help with connecting to people who go through similar situations. It also helps with building meaningful relationships after overcoming the addiction.

Where to get gaming addiction treatment in Kona

The therapies mentioned above can either be inpatient or outpatient. This would depend on the patient’s treatment plan and their needs. However, we recommend inpatient treatment to help them establish a new routine away from temptation and risk.

If you’re looking for gaming addiction treatment in Kona, Honu House Hawaii is waiting. We provide a safe, fun, immersive haven for life changing experiences. Staffed with professional, compassionate people and a community who is growing in their journey alongside you, ensures that you feel supported as you start your transformation. With our holistic approach to healing, freedom, joy, and self fulfillment await you! Talk to us today.