| In contrast to the early years of interactive | | | | least familiar with the culture of online gaming and is |
| electronic entertainment, video games today are a | | | | open to the idea that video games can be addictive. |
| multi-billion dollar industry with revenues that regularly | | | | 2. Family therapy |
| exceed box office receipts at the movies. | | | | Although this is less common with adult gamers, |
| People play computer, handheld, and console games | | | | family therapy is often a great option for children or |
| to relax, to socialize with others, and to reduce | | | | teens who are addicted to computer games. The |
| stress. When used in these ways they can be a | | | | psychologist examines the entire family system and |
| relatively harmless and enjoyable activity. In fact, | | | | develops interventions involving all members of the |
| most people (children, teens, and adults) can and do | | | | family. |
| play computer games in moderation and without | | | | 3. In-patient treatment services |
| harmful consequences. | | | | These facilities specialize in helping individuals |
| However, for some people gaming can morph from a | | | | overcome video game addiction and often involve |
| simple hobby into a destructive addiction. Although | | | | extended stays on site - perhaps 30 days or more. |
| the research on exactly how many gamers become | | | | Fees are typically very high (tens of thousands of |
| addicted is still developing, it is commonly estimated | | | | dollars) making it prohibitively expensive for most. |
| to be in the 5 - 10% range. | | | | 4. Wilderness therapy |
| Given that millions of people play video games, even | | | | This method can also be very expensive and involves |
| this low estimate translates into thousands and | | | | removing the addict from his or her home and living |
| thousands of individuals who may be suffering from | | | | in an outdoor group setting for 15 to 30 days. During |
| addiction. | | | | this time the addict has very limited access to |
| What options are available for those who play online | | | | technology and focuses on developing |
| computer games far too much? | | | | self-confidence, setting life goals, and connecting with |
| 1. Individual therapy with a psychologist or counsellor | | | | others in a meaningful way. |
| In general, cognitive-behavioral therapy is the | | | | 5. Video game addiction books |
| recommended treatment modality for addressing | | | | Perhaps the most affordable option, self-help books |
| obsessive gaming habits. It is best to select a | | | | on video game addiction attempt to motivate the |
| psychologist who has experience treating video game | | | | reader to change his or her gaming habits and |
| or internet addiction if this is an option. If a specialist | | | | provide worksheets, tips, and strategies for gaming in |
| is not available, try to choose a therapist who is at | | | | moderation. |