Gaming disorder or just loves games? The signs that matter

Plenty of children would play games all day if they could. That doesn't mean something is wrong. But for a small number, gaming becomes a problem that seriously affects their life. Here's how to tell the difference.

What gaming disorder is

The World Health Organization includes gaming disorder in its International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11). It describes a pattern of gaming with:

1. Impaired control over gaming: when, how often, how long
2. Increasing priority given to gaming over other interests and daily activities
3. Continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative consequences

For a diagnosis, the pattern usually lasts at least 12 months and causes significant problems in personal, family, social, educational or other important areas of life.

It's relatively uncommon. Most children who game a lot are simply enthusiastic gamers.

Healthy enthusiasm looks like

• Lots of gaming, but they still sleep, go to school, see friends and do other things
• They can stop, even if they complain
• Gaming is social and fun
• Grades and mood are broadly stable

Warning signs

• Gaming late into the night, regularly, and tired at school
• Skipping school, meals or hygiene to play
• Falling grades
• Losing interest in friends, activities and family
• Extreme anger or distress when they can't play
• Lying about how much they play
• Spending money they don't have on games
• Continuing even after serious consequences

Look underneath

Heavy gaming is sometimes a way to cope with something else: anxiety, depression, ADHD, bullying, loneliness or problems at home. Gaming may feel like the one place they're good at something or have friends. Ask about the rest of their life, not just the gaming.

What helps

1. Talk without judgement. "I've noticed you're playing late every night and you seem exhausted. How are things?"
2. Protect sleep first. Devices out of the bedroom at night. See phones and sleep.
3. Agree on limits together, especially "no new match after..." for online games.
4. Use device and console controls to support agreements. See console parental controls.
5. Add things they'll enjoy: sports, clubs, time with friends offline.
6. Show interest in their games. Understanding why they love it helps you negotiate.

When to get help

See a doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist if:

• Problems continue despite your efforts
• School performance or attendance is seriously affected
• Your child seems depressed, anxious or withdrawn
• Conflict about gaming is severe, including aggression

If your child is in crisis, call the NCMH crisis hotline 1553. See also signs of problematic screen use.