Now officially recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Video game addiction is compulsive or uncontrolled use of video games, in a way that causes problems in other areas of the person's life. Often considered a form of computer addiction or internet addiction.
When someone “needs” to play video games to be happy and feels miserable when they’re not playing, they may have a disorder which is just as real as alcoholism or dependence on prescription drugs.
A person might have an addiction to a video game if they can’t stop playing it even though they know they should. They’re aware that the video game is causing them to neglect their family, friends, work, and education, but they keep playing anyway because they feel best behind the screen.
Video games affect the brain in the same way as addictive drugs: they trigger the release of dopamine, a chemical which reinforces behaviours. For this reason, playing video games can be an addictive stimulus.
