Thriveworks video game addiction counseling in Grand Rapids Charter Township, MI helps people who have an obsession with playing video games as well as with internet gaming disorder. People may have mild, moderate, or severe internet gaming disorder if they struggle to control how often or how long they game. The symptoms of internet gaming disorder may include deceiving loved ones about when and how often they play, thinking constantly about gaming, and using video games as a distraction from real-world problems.
Thriveworks video game addiction counseling in Grand Rapids Charter Township helps those who suffer by assisting them in regaining control over video gaming. In addition, it can help them cope with the negative effects of video game addiction counseling from anxiety to depression, insomnia, and more.
Video Game Addiction in Grand Rapids, MI—Counseling and Therapy
Based upon the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous, several 12-step groups have formed that address gaming such as Online Gamers Anonymous and Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous. People are also turning to therapy to regain control of their gaming.
Thriveworks Grand Rapids video game addiction counselors have worked with many clients who need help regulating their video game play. We have worked with children, teens, and adults, and we love seeing them find freedom and balance. If you or your child could benefit, reach out to Thriveworks Grand Rapids to schedule an appointment.
What Exactly Is Video Game Addiction?
What people normally talk about as a video game addiction, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) formally labels internet gaming disorder and includes in the section, “Conditions for Further Study.” While the DSM-5 acknowledges that mental health professionals need more information on internet gaming disorder, it also acknowledges that much is known. The following are symptoms of internet gaming disorder:
- Lying to friends, family, and accountability partners about gaming habits.
- Obsessively thinking about games.
- Developing a tolerance to gaming—playing for more and more time to feel satiated.
- Alleviating difficult emotions such as anxiety, loneliness, boredom, guilt, sadness, shame, grief, or fear by playing video games.
- When trying to stop gaming or when unable to play, experiencing withdrawal—moodiness, irritability, restlessness, or depression.
- Playing video games to avoid solving real-life problems and challenges.
- Trying to stop without success.
- Choosing to game over pursuing time with loved ones or professional/educational opportunities.
In addition, parents should pay particular attention if their children or teens display the following:
- Falling grades.
- Drowsiness at school.
- Unfinished homework.
- Giving up activities they normally enjoy.
- Playing video games by themselves.
The underlying theme of these symptoms is control: Do people have control over their video game habits or have video games taken control of their lives? Depending upon how many symptoms people present, they may have severe, moderate, or mile internet gaming disorder.
Scheduling Video Game Addiction Counseling at Thriveworks Grand Rapids
If you recognize the symptoms and the effects of internet gaming disorder, it may be time to reach out for professional help. If you are ready, so is Thriveworks Grand Rapids.
When you call our office, a scheduling specialist will answer. If you call today, you likely will see a therapist as soon as this week. We offer weekend and evening sessions. We also accept many insurance plans.
Let’s get started. Call Thriveworks today.
