Online schools aside, digital exposure can be toxic to your child
HIGHLIGHTS
- Video games have become a popular form of recreational activity.
- However, unhealthy gambling behaviors can lead to addiction.
- Gambling addiction is as real as any other form of addiction.
New Delhi: Advances in technology and the emergence of the digital age have certainly been a boon to the world. However, these developments have also come with some shortcomings the seriousness of which people have not yet understood.
Video games have become a popular form of recreational activity. From cell phones to
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Video game signs
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Here are some warning signs of video game addiction to watch out for:
- Significant decrease in social skills: People with gambling addiction may show symptoms of social withdrawal. This can include inability to hold conversations, clumsiness, anxiety or lack of confidence in social settings, not making efforts to follow up and participate in relationships, etc.
- Sudden loss of concentration: A gambling addiction can be reflected in people’s daily lifestyle. Individuals may suffer from loss of concentration, drop in grades, forgetfulness, inability to memorize details, etc.
- Inability to find interests outside of video games: When the urge to play video games takes over the mind, other interests and hobbies can often get overshadowed or sidelined.
- Withdrawal symptoms: When unable to play video games, people with gaming addiction may experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, stress, irritability, frustration, etc.
- Using deception as a tool: People with a gambling addiction can often use deception as a tool to engage in gambling-related activities. This can involve lying about whereabouts, stealing money to spend on games, etc.
Gambling addiction and the body
Gambling addiction is as real as any other form of addiction. Video games are developed to provide gamers with an immersive experience that makes it easy for some people to become addicted to a game. However, an unhealthy amount of immersion leads to addiction. A major causative factor behind this includes the pursuit of the video game-induced “high”.
In addition to the unhealthy consequences on
- Unhealthy weight gain or obesity
- Hallucinations
- Sleep problems
- Aches
- Seizures
Fighting video game addiction
The first step towards tackling gambling addiction is identifying its symptoms. Therefore, it is recommended to stay alert and watch for warning signs in your children or people around you. Here are some ways to help children and people with gambling addictions:
- Consult a therapist or professional to develop an appropriate plan such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, etc. to overcome addiction.
- The person suffering from addiction must be treated with care. Make sure they don’t feel isolated.
- Emphasis should also be placed on other underlying health conditions that may impede addiction treatment. This is essential to ensure overall health.
- The person of interest should be encouraged to engage in multiple activities such as gardening, nature retreats, meditation, etc. that do not involve the use of digital devices.
- A healthy diet and a regular exercise routine are suggested to maximize the benefits of the treatment. In addition, it is always recommended to communicate and express yourself.
If you are someone or know someone who suffers from any kind of addiction, seek help immediately. Remember that with united efforts we can overcome this obstacle and there is no shame in asking for help.
Disclaimer: The tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.
