Gaming addiction
गेमिंग की लत
Gaming disorder means loss of control over gaming, giving it priority over other activities and continuing despite harm, usually for 12 months or more.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Gaming for many hours daily, late nights
- Skipping school, college or work
- Aggression when asked to stop
- Spending money on in-game purchases
- Social withdrawal
Causes
- Game design rewards, peer competition
- ADHD, social anxiety, loneliness
Risk factors
- Online multiplayer games with rewards and in-game purchases
- ADHD, social anxiety, depression or bullying
Dependence, 'withdrawal' and relapse
- Gaming dependence means gaming has taken priority over sleep, studies, food and family, and control is lost.
- On stopping, anger, restlessness, sadness and sleep problems are common for a few weeks; sudden bans make these worse.
- Relapse often follows exams, holidays or new game releases — agree on a relapse-prevention plan in advance.
How it is diagnosed
- Impaired control, gaming taking priority over other activities, continuing despite harm — usually for 12 months
Classification: ICD-11 6C51Gaming disorder is recognised in ICD-11 (not in ICD-10).
Treatment options
- 1CBT and motivational interviewing
- 2Family-based plan with agreed limits
- 3Treating ADHD/anxiety/depression if present
- 4Restoring sleep, study and physical activity
Psychotherapy and counselling
- CBT and family-based plans with gradual limits
Guidance for family
- Avoid sudden total bans or snatching phones — they often cause aggression
- Replace gaming time with sport, hobbies or family activity
When to see a psychiatrist
- Gaming causes violence or stealing
- School refusal or failing exams
- Sleep reversed (awake all night)
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
Is every gamer addicted?
No. It is a problem only when control is lost and life is harmed.
How long does treatment take?
Usually a few months of regular sessions with family involvement.
The person refuses treatment. Can the family consult first?
Yes. Families can consult to learn how to motivate the person without fights (CRAFT approach) and how to handle withdrawal safely.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.