Last Updated:

May 16th, 2025

Gaming Addiction | Symptoms, Effects and Causes

Computer games frequently get flak for everything from laziness in teenagers to violence in playgrounds. While many criticisms of gaming are unfair and often baseless, concerns about gaming addiction are very much justified. In the UK alone, it is believed that between 700,000 and 1,000,000 individuals are struggling with gaming addiction. While it may be a newly recognised issue, gaming addiction has already destroyed many lives, but knowing the signs, causes, and consequences can help protect you.

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What is gaming addiction?

The most straightforward gaming addiction definition is when you can’t stop playing no matter what is happening as a result. Gaming addiction is a compulsion which consumes your whole life, often at the cost of health, relationships, responsibilities and even basic survival needs.

Many people (including 93% of British children) play computer games, which can be a great way to relax and socialise. It is, therefore, very important to differentiate between addiction and “normal” gaming. Even if you play computer games more than you should, it doesn’t mean that you are necessarily addicted. It is only when gaming begins to harm some aspect of your life that you still can’t stop that gaming addiction has taken hold.

How does gaming addiction develop?

The compulsive need to game can be just as overpowering as the urge to consume drugs or alcohol. This is because a behavioural addiction essentially hijacks the same reward circuits in the brain as a substance addiction. In fact, the similarity between gaming and drug addictions  was described by one expert like this:

“Computer games are like heroin. Once you are hooked, it’s hard to get unhooked.”

Playing video games can make you feel great for a little while, helping you forget about problems and enjoy yourself. Much like with substance addiction, however, you can build a tolerance to gaming. This means you might need to play games for longer or dive into more immersive games to satisfy the craving.

You can then become totally dependent on gaming, and if you can’t play, you may start experiencing discomfort, which is eerily similar to substance cravings or withdrawal symptoms. On top of this, you can become completely emotionally and psychologically trapped, relying on computer games entirely to feel happy, calm or just at ease. At this point, quitting may seem difficult and undesirable, so you keep playing, denying that there is an issue despite mounting problems.

Spotting the warning signs of a gaming addiction

Gaming addiction often flies under the radar initially, as many gamers and their peers see extensive gaming as a normal part of life. It can be easy to dismiss concerns when you compare yourself to others who seem to be gaming just as much or even far more than you are.

To help see through the confusion, here are some telltale gaming addiction signs and symptoms to look out for:

  • Needing to play longer sessions to feel satisfied.
  • Constantly thinking about gaming during your free time.
  • Trying to cut down but failing or going back to your old habits quickly.
  • Feeling restless or moody when you attempt to cut down on gaming time.
  • Playing computer games to escape from your personal issues or feel better when struggling with stress, loneliness or mental health issues.
  • Lying to your friends or family about the extent of your gaming.
  • Your gaming habits jeopardising your studies, career or important relationships.

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Gaming addiction can have serious consequences, so if you recognise these issues, it is time to seek professional gaming addiction help.

What causes a gaming addiction?

Computer games are designed to be fun and keep you playing again and again. However, an estimated 93% of British children play computer games, and the vast majority of them will never become addicted. Gaming addiction is a complex condition, and there are lots of factors that can contribute, including:

Mental health struggles
Many who struggle with gaming addiction are also grappling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety or ADHD. Gaming becomes a temporary refuge, offering an escape from daily struggles. However, this short-term solution can spiral into addiction which often intensifies the root problems over time.
Escapism
Computer games provide a retreat where you can temporarily forget about real-world problems and immerse yourself in a new exciting life of fantasy. This is especially appealing to people who are feeling lonely, dissatisfied or who struggle with real-world relationships. Eventually, the reliance on computer games for fulfilment or socialising can develop into a full-blown gaming addiction.
Inherently habit-forming games
Video games are engineered to be addictive, with game developers using various techniques that keep players engaged. They craft compelling storylines that keep you hooked, like the plot of your favourite film, challenges that are just tough enough to keep players engaged and reward systems that offer constant incentives like new gear or improved character abilities. All of this makes it hard to stop playing, even as problems in your life become obvious.
24/7 online gaming
Online gaming has also had a major impact on the addictive potential of computer games. Players can now find themselves engrossed in a world of tens of millions of other players across the globe, creating a relentless drive to compete and conquer without ever reaching a finality. This perpetual loop ensures there is always another achievement just around the corner, keeping players hooked for hours on end.

The mental and physical dangers of a gaming addiction

Gaming addiction can pose serious risks to both your physical and mental health. Addicted gamers may face obesity from long hours of inactivity, strained eyes from staring at the screen, and repetitive wrist and back stress injuries. Sleep patterns are also frequently disrupted, leading to significant sleep loss and all its associated health risks.

In extreme cases, gaming addiction can even be fatal such as the heartbreaking 2010 incident in South Korea where a three-month-old baby starved to death as her parents were so engrossed in an online game.

Chronic gaming can also lead to serious mental health challenges, exacerbating conditions like depression and anxiety and leading to feelings of isolation and even suicidal thoughts. Efforts to cut back on gaming can induce withdrawal symptoms that include emotional instability, irritability and restlessness, all of which can make daily life a struggle and lead to a relapse.

How to stop gaming when you’re addicted

Overcoming gaming addiction starts with a digital detox, where you stop playing computer games to break your dependence on them. This can be very hard and you may even experience withdrawal symptoms similar to drugs. This is why you should undergo treatment through a professional behavioural addiction rehab programme.

There are some NHS services for gaming addiction, but as it is only a newly recognised condition, these are not widely available. There are, however, a number of private rehab centres across the country which can help you break your gaming addiction and help you build a future life without it.

How to help someone with a gaming addiction

It is time to reclaim your life from gaming with a plan that works for you. If you don’t know where to start, Addiction Helper can help you find the most effective treatment programme and recovery centre for you. Reach out to us and start your journey to recovery with our expert team by your side.

Reclaim Your Life Today

Our compassionate team are ready and available to take your call, and guide you towards lasting the lasting addiction recovery you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are online multiplayer games more addictive?
While not every multiplayer online game is automatically more addictive, they can be for some people. These games often have no clear end, which means you can keep playing for hours, increasing the risk of addiction. They are also inherently designed to be very engaging, with missions, rewards and the chance to team up or compete with others, which can make you want to play more and more. If you compete or crave social interaction, online multiplayer games may pose an increased risk for you.
Can gaming addiction cause physical health problems?
Yes, spending too much time gaming can definitely lead to various physical health issues. For starters, sitting in one spot for long hours can cause back and neck pain, which is also very tough on your eyes. Poor posture and lack of movement can also lead to more serious issues like carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects your hands and wrists, or even deep vein thrombosis from not moving your legs enough. Gaming addiction can also mess with your sleep, and this can have a big impact on both mental and physical health.
Can someone be addicted to only one type of game?
Yes, it is possible to be addicted to just one type of game. This might happen because the game meets your specific needs, like the challenge of beating levels, connecting with friends or escaping from stress for a while. When a single game starts to take up a lot of your time and attention, start looking out for gaming addiction signs and symptoms.

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