Some people may not believe that addictions exist beyond alcohol and substances. The truth is that not only can you be addicted to just about anything, but video game addiction, in particular, is one of the most common impulsive addictions out there.
You may ask yourself, “what’s the big deal? Why can’t I enjoy a little harmless gaming? I’m not hiring anyone?” However, too much gaming can cause serious problems in your life, from social struggles to physical harm.
One of the reasons why video games have become even more addictive recently is because of the increase in popularity of online multiplayer games. These are especially addicted because they have no end. The thrill of playing is never quenched because there is no big boss to kill at the end. There is no end in sight, but rather an alternate reality outside of their day to day life. Gamers can start to build relationships with other players online, resulting in preferring their digital reality over their real lives.
Are you starting to wonder whether you might be a video game addict yourself? Take a look at some of the telltale signs that you may be just a little too attached to your console.
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Sore Body Parts
If you spend more than several hours a day gaming, then it’s going to start to take a toll on your body. You may develop wrist injuries from repetitive overuse of the controller. Your neck may begin to get stiff from remaining in the same position.
You may even develop sore eyes from straining them for too long. If your health is starting to be adversely affected as a result of your “innocent” video games, then it may be time to reconsider how innocent your games really are.
Poor Personal Hygiene
When you’re addicted to video games, you start to prioritize your games over anything else. One of the first things that addicts start to neglect is their personal hygiene. If they have a job to go to in the morning, they prioritize getting in some gaming time before they go rather than taking a shower or brushing their teeth.
They likely stay up late gaming and wake up too late to have the time to shower. When you start choosing video games over showers, you’ve definitely got a problem.
Isolation
People who are addicted to something, whether its alcohol or video games, isolate themselves in order to spend more time with their addiction of choice.
They may lie to their friends and family about where they are and what they’re doing.
If you recognize any of these behaviors in yourself, then you should consider talking to a professional about treatment. It’s never too late to turn things around.
