Gaming addiction is an experience that is often scoffed at by younger people and thrown around quite casually by older demographics. However, we at Clinic Les Alpes understand that video game addiction is a significant disorder, and recognise the devastating impact of this addiction. Through compassionate and expert care, we offer treatment for video game addiction to support those looking to recover and find new ways to live a meaningful and health-promoting life. Learn more below about gaming addiction, its symptoms, and its treatment. It is never too late or too early to start on the road to recovery.
The journey to recovery from internet gaming disorder begins with recognising the need for change, a task made all the more challenging by the pervasive presence of technology in our lives. From our workplaces and social environments to the comfort of our own homes, the digital world is ever-present, making it difficult to escape the grasp of compulsive video gaming. It's essential to find a sanctuary away from these everyday triggers to truly start the healing process. An inpatient facility like Clinic Les Alpes offers that much-needed refuge, providing a secure environment where you can focus on building resilience against your compulsive behaviours.
Clinic Les Alpes stands out not just for its protective environment but also as a place for genuine transformation. Here, amidst the tranquillity of Switzerland's natural beauty, we offer a comprehensive treatment program tailored to combat gaming addiction. Through a blend of individual therapy, group sessions, and a variety of therapeutic activities including cognitive-behavioral therapy, our clients gain insights into the triggers of their addiction and develop sustainable strategies for managing emotional and psychological challenges.
With luxury amenities and a setting that includes views of the peaceful meadows and Lake Geneva, our clinic offers a serene backdrop for self-discovery and recovery, supported by a team dedicated to providing care, compassion, and expert guidance in addiction treatment.
Gaming addiction is a term commonly used by mental health and addiction professionals to describe an overwhelming urge to play video games, either on- or off-line, leading to distress and impairment in various areas of life. Individuals addicted to video games often experience intense emotional highs and lows during gaming, leading to an addictive cycle of neurochemical reward-seeking, which reinforces the urge and 'need' to engage in game play despite negative consequences in your 'real' life.
It is important to acknowledge that some international diagnostic manuals, such as the DSM-5 do not currently have diagnostic criteria for 'gaming addiction'. However, this does not mean that such an addiction is invalid or any less severe than other behavioural addictions, and other diagnostic manuals such as the ICD-11 are more advanced in recognising gaming addiction as internet gaming disorder.
The International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision (ICD-11), defines Gaming Disorder as a pattern of gaming behaviour ("digital gaming" or "video-gaming") characterised by impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite the occurrence of negative consequences.
For 'gaming disorder' to be diagnosed, the behaviour pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The pattern of gaming behaviour may be continuous or episodic and recurrent. The diagnostic guidelines recommend that the behaviour should be evident for at least 12 months for a diagnosis to be assigned, although the required duration may be shortened if all diagnostic requirements are met and symptoms are severe.
The main symptoms of video game addiction include:
Gaming addiction particularly affects the adolescent population, where video games may serve as an escape from social pressures or academic stress. Gamers in this age group may show specific signs and symptoms such as:
An assessment period enables the professional care team around you to learn more about you and what your needs and goals are for your treatment stay. This typically lasts 5-10 days, and you will be able to address all your health needs with a multidisciplinary team. During this phase, we also evaluate any co-occurring issues such as substance use disorders. By being open and honest with the team, they will be able to create a personalised treatment for video game addiction unique to you and your addiction.
During your treatment period, which is most often 28 days, you will undergo a variety of therapeutic interventions. This will include a range of more traditional talking therapies such as:
It will also include complementary therapies in order to provide a somatic sense of recovery including massage, acupuncture, meditation, sound bowls, ayurvedic medicine, and more. Alternative therapies may also be proposed such as art therapy, music and dance therapy, or equine therapy.
It is important to remember that not only does individual therapy help with recovery, but that research has consistently demonstrated the 'power of the group' when it comes to group therapeutic experiences. Not only does this provide you with the opportunity to build new connections with people experiencing similar problems, but it also enables peers to hold each other accountable during their recovery.
Prior to graduating from treatment, your therapist will support you in putting together both a relapse prevention plan and an aftercare plan. These two plans will connect you with experienced professionals that can help you use your new skills to prevent lapses and cope adequately with triggers. You will be able to feel secure and strong in your newfound recovery.
Yes, video game addiction is frequently intertwined with mental health issues. Many individuals may turn to excessive gaming as a way to escape or manage their emotions, suggesting the presence of underlying mental health challenges. Conversely, the compulsive engagement in gaming can lead to significant mental health problems due to its negative effects on various aspects of a person's life.
Tackling gaming addiction without addressing these concurrent mental health concerns is often an incomplete approach. Commonly associated issues include:
A holistic treatment strategy, encompassing therapy, counseling, and positive lifestyle adjustments, is crucial for not only overcoming the addiction but also improving the overall mental and emotional wellbeing of the individual.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with gaming addiction, don't wait to seek help. Our specialized gaming addiction treatment program at Clinic Les Alpes provides comprehensive care tailored to your unique needs. With evidence-based therapies, luxury accommodations, and a dedicated team of professionals, we're here to support your journey to recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about our treatment for video game addiction and take the first step towards reclaiming your life from gaming addiction.
