Resources
Educational Resources and Articles
Meds
• Online gaming addiction: Classification, prediction and associated risk factors
• Internet Gaming Addiction in Adolescence: Risk Factors and Maladjustment Correlates
• Relationship between Internet Addiction, Gaming Addiction and School Engagement among Adolescents
• Exploring the effects of psychological ownership, gaming motivations, and primary/secondary control on online game addiction
• The Effects of Smartphone and Internet Gaming Addiction on Eating Attitudes Among University Students
• Newest findings on gaming addiction treatment
• Internet gaming addiction. Reasons, diagnosis, prevention and treatment
• Efficacy of Short-term Treatment of Internet and Computer Game Addiction A Randomized Clinical Trial
• A Qualitative Analysis of Online Gaming Addicts in Treatment
Science
• Bidirectional Association between Physical Activity and Dopamine Across Adulthood—A Systematic Review
• The effects of dopamine receptor genes on the trajectories of sport participation from adolescence through young adulthood
• Does the difference between physically active and couch potato lie in the dopamine system?
• The effects of a virtual reality treatment program for online gaming addiction
• Understanding Online Gaming Addiction and Treatment Issues for Adolescents
• Gaming addiction and perceived stress among Saudi adolescents
Motivation and different options
• 9 Fast, Easy Ways to Boost Dopamine (the Doing/Motivation Hormone)
• Using a Dopamine Menu to Stimulate Your ADHD Brain
• Sport physiology, dopamine and nitric oxide – Some speculations and hypothesis generation
• The role of social motivation and sociability of gamers in online game addiction.
• The role of psychological motivations in online gaming addiction among adolescents
• Online game addiction among adolescents: motivation and prevention factors
• The relationship of online gaming addiction with motivations to play and craving
• The role of social motivation and sociability of gamers in online game addiction
Hobbies for Dopamine Rewards
• Sports
• Team sports (e.g., basketball)
• Martial arts
• Running or cycling
• Creative Arts
• Drawing or painting
• Music production
• Writing
• Games
• Board games (e.g., chess)
• Card games (e.g., Magic: The Gathering, Pokemon)
• Escape rooms
• Skill Development
• Coding
• Cooking
• Photography
• Social Activities
• Volunteering
• Joining clubs
• Attending events
• Mindfulness
• Yoga or meditation
• Gardening
• Nature walks
• Hiking
Why should you stop playing video games?
People who are addicted to video games should consider stopping or reducing their gaming because it can negatively affect their health, relationships, productivity, and finances. Excessive gaming can lead to physical and mental health issues, strain relationships with family and friends, and decrease focus on school or work. It can also lead to financial problems if too much money is spent on in-game purchases. Over time, gaming addiction can cause an imbalance in life, making it difficult to enjoy other activities or pursue personal growth. By cutting back on gaming, individuals can regain control, improve their well-being, and lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Coaching we offer
7 Steps to Overcome Gaming Addiction
Acknowledge the addiction
Recognize and admit that you have a problem with video game addiction. This self-awareness is crucial as it forms the foundation for change.
Set goals
Establish clear and achievable goals for reducing your gaming time or abstaining from gaming altogether. Start with small, manageable steps to build momentum.
Create a Schedule
Develop a daily or weekly schedule that allocates specific times for productive activities, exercise, socializing, and hobbies outside of gaming. This helps fill the void left by gaming and reduces the temptation to play excessively.
Limit Access
Physically or digitally restrict access to gaming platforms or devices. This might involve uninstalling games, using parental controls, or keeping gaming devices out of sight and out of easy reach.
Find alternative activities
: Identify and engage in alternative activities that you enjoy and that are fulfilling. This could include sports, reading, art, volunteering, or learning a new skill. These activities provide healthy outlets and help occupy your time.
Seek Support
Reach out to friends, family members, or a support group who can provide encouragement, accountability, and understanding. Consider joining online or in-person support groups specifically for individuals dealing with gaming addiction.
Professional help if needed
If your addiction is severe or if you’re struggling to make progress on your own, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor specializing in addiction. They can provide personalized strategies and support to help you overcome your addiction.
Library of Video Game and Digital Addiction
● Video Game Addiction: What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment (Cleveland Clinic)
● Video Game Addiction – Signs, Health Risks & How to Help (Addiction Resource)
● Video Game Addiction (Psychology Today)
● Video Game Addiction: Definition, Symptoms, Effects, Treatment, and Coping (Verywell Mind)
● Where to Find Help if You’re Addicted to Gaming (HealthyPlace)