Problem Internet & Gaming in Adults: Understanding and Finding Help
Problem internet and gaming use, while not formally classified as a disorder, can create significant challenges in a person’s life. For some individuals, the excessive use of the internet or gaming becomes a pattern of dependency that interferes with daily responsibilities, relationships, and overall well-being. Just like other types of addiction, when gaming or internet use takes precedence over everything else, it can lead to negative consequences in your personal and professional life.
Symptoms & Signs of Problem Internet/Gaming Use
If you find that your online activities are taking over your life, there are key signs that may indicate the need for support. These include:
- Inability to Control Time Online: You may struggle to limit your time spent online, whether it's through gaming, browsing, chatting, or engaging in other internet-based activities.
- Loss of Time Awareness: Losing track of time online, leading to neglected responsibilities at work, at home, or in personal relationships.
- Comfort with Online Peers: You may feel more comfortable interacting with online friends than with people in your real life.
- Excessive Gaming: Spending long hours gaming, often to the detriment of other aspects of your life.
- Lack of Balance: Struggling to find balance between time spent online and offline, leading to a sense of disconnection from real-world activities.
- Loss of Prioritization: Online activities become your priority, overshadowing responsibilities or productive tasks.
When is it Time to Seek Help?
If you begin to feel isolated or distanced from real-life friends and family, or if your online interactions feel more meaningful than those with people in your immediate circle, it may be time to consider professional support. Additionally, if you find yourself hiding the time you spend online or becoming defensive when questioned about your internet or gaming habits, seeking help could be a crucial first step towards regaining control.
Treatment Methods for Problem Internet/Gaming Use
There are several evidence-based therapeutic approaches that can help individuals struggling with internet or gaming dependency. These treatments aim to address underlying behavioral patterns and provide tools for healthier coping mechanisms:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on helping individuals understand how their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs influence their behavior. It works to change negative thought patterns and helps clients develop healthier habits.
- Behavioral Therapy: This approach examines how sociocultural factors and environmental influences shape a person’s behavior. It emphasizes practical behavior changes over exploring unconscious processes, aiming to address present-day issues.
- Existential Therapy: Existential therapy helps individuals explore their choices, values, and the meaning behind their actions. This therapy encourages self-awareness and personal responsibility, empowering individuals to recognize their ability to shape their future.
What to Expect from Treatment
If problem internet or gaming use is affecting your life, rest assured that you are not alone. At Wholesome Psychology, our compassionate team of certified therapists understands the impact that excessive internet or gaming use can have on your mental health and overall life satisfaction. Through a personalized approach, our therapists use a range of treatment strategies designed to help you regain balance, break unhealthy patterns, and reconnect with the things that matter most.
Whether you’re seeking individual therapy or support for your child or adolescent, our team is here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can work toward lasting change. We are committed to helping you discover healthy coping strategies, regain control, and build fulfilling relationships both online and offline.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing, contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our approach to treatment.