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This page covers the definitions of gaming disorder, video game addiction and internet gaming disorder as well as the support and resources available to you.
What is a gaming disorder?
Gaming disorder, video game addiction and internet gaming disorder all refer to the compulsive use of video games and lack of control over gaming. This disorder can be caused by different types of gaming, such as video games, console games or internet gaming online.
Gaming disorder is an addictive behaviour and characterised by regular overuse of games for hours at a time. Playing games to a level that is affecting your everyday life and relationships, but feeling unable to stop, indicates a gaming disorder.
Unhealthy gaming over an extensive period of time can cause damage to both your mental and physical health. The short-term and long-term risks of gaming disorder include, but are not limited to:
- Psychological dependency on gaming.
- Poor academic or work performance.
- Sleep disorders or insomnia.
- Anxiety and irritability.
- Dopamine addiction.
- Poor mental health.
- Joint pain in wrists, elbows and neck.
- Increased risk of obesity.
Resources and support
If you are experiencing problems relating to gaming, or know someone who is, please remember that you are not alone. You can access free and confidential support at UCL as a registered student. Our empathetic team can support you to find the best treatment method for your needs.
There are also a number of services and websites that can help you better understand and cope with gaming disorders and addiction.
- Gaming Addicts Anonymous
Gaming Addicts Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support recovery from eating disorders.
You can join a GAA online meeting or an in-person local support group using the search tool.
You can email the organisation at helpline@gaais.org.
- Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous
Internet and Technology Addicts Anonymous is a peer-led fellowship. The organisation host regular group meetings in local communities to support recovery from internet addiction disorder, social media addiction, gaming addiction, pornography addiction and online shopping addiction.
You can join an ITAA online meeting or an in-person local support group using the search tool.
You can email the organisation at helpline@gaais.org.
- NHS National Centre for Gaming Disorders
The National Centre for Gaming Disorders is a multidisciplinary NHS clinic offering treatment for people in England who are struggling with their use of gaming or seeking to support a loved one.
The centre offers support to people aged 13 years. CBT therapy sessions are led by consultant psychiatrists, psychologists, and family therapists. The team facilitates individual treatment, group treatment, parent workshops, peer support groups and family therapy.
You can learn more about the service and how to make a referral on their website.
- YoungMinds
The YoungMinds charity offers a webpage on gaming and mental health. The webpage provide comprehensive advice on healthy gaming and how to access support if you need help.
- Gaming blocking software - Cold Turkey
Cold Turkey blocks websites, games and applications to boost your productivity and reclaim your free time.
- Gaming blocking software - Digital Wellbeing Android
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Android website to find out more.
- Gaming blocking software - Digital Wellbeing iPhone
Use your phone’s digital wellbeing controls to block certain apps, or put them on a timer.
Visit the Apple website to find out more.