Every generation has new challenges and manifestations of trouble and difficulty. One new embodiment of addiction, that is now impacting a whole generation is the subtle, rarely spoken of, issue of “video game addiction”.
Video game addiction is on the rise, and with the financial implications of gaming being at 11 billion dollar/year business, don’t think that this is just a phase…video game strategies, graphics, and gaming options are here to stay.
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A few things you need to know about video game addictions:
- In a survey of over 3000 self proclaimed “gaming addicts” the average gamer spent over 20 hours/week playing games.
- When gamers weren’t actually playing most reported that they were thinking about playing.
- Gamers report they consistently “stay up later than they should” to play there game (use there drug) of choice.
- Many gamers report a lower self-esteem and report a lower level of personal happiness as a result of gaming.
Treatment
If this is you, or someone you know, you might be a perfect candidate for an outpatient program for a video game addiction. What are the benefits of an outpatient program for those who have video game addictions?
Outpatient programs are affordable, convenient for those who have busy schedules and work within most people’s normal parameters of life.- Outpatient programs provide relational support and connections with other people often facing the same difficulties/issues that you are facing.
- Outpatient programs are designed to equip individuals with tools to be able to engage with their real world but with fresh ideas, tools and beliefs.
- Outpatient programs (generally) do an amazing job of helping patients change belief systems, not just correcting behavior.
If you or someone you know might be a candidate for an outpatient program for a video game addiction seek a treatment program near you. You will find several options and what any/all outpatient treatment programs require is a sincere desire to change.
Showing up to circle, confessing your unbalanced, digitally dependent life won’t change anything.
Asking God and others to help is the way to real change. For your own sake, the sake of those around you, and the joy of being a healthy, whole human pursue the life free from the grips of video game addiction.
About the Author: Ryan received his BS in Bible and Theology and a minor in counseling from Multnomah University. He has pastored students, families and is passionate about Christ-centered recovery and healing.
He’s been married to his beautiful wife Michelle for 13 years and they enjoy raising four crazy, unique and special kids together. Ryan is the teaching pastor at Vast Church in Sisters, OR and is currently working on his Masters in Theology at Western Seminary in Portland, OR
Addiction Hope is proud to announce the initiation of a special Christian Track of blogs and articles to commemorate the blessing of our sister site, Eating Disorder Hope’s 10th year anniversary. Watch for further content noted as “Christian Track”.
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on January 30, 2016
Published on AddictionHope.com