29/03/2025
How to Quit a Gaming Addiction
If you or your teen is ready to address a gaming problem, the five steps below may help them learn how to quit a gaming addiction.
1. Set a strict time limit for daily play.
Experts on children’s health agree that school-aged children should not spend more than two hours each day in front of any screen. Between television, cell phones, homework, and gaming, time can add up quickly. If you’re worried about how much time you or your child spends gaming, start by limiting play to no more than 30 minutes each day.
Set the alarm or ask a friend to send you a text to remind you it’s time to do something else. Engaging in physical activities can be a great way to balance screen time and promote overall well-being. Additionally, encouraging hobbies like reading or creative arts can provide enriching alternatives to screen-based entertainment.
2. Remove Gaming Devices from Bedroom
Having gaming devices in the bedroom makes it too easy to play whenever you feel like it. In addition, playing before bedtime can result in poor-quality sleep. Keeping the bedroom screen-free will help you control your gaming time and help ensure you feel rested and energized in the morning.
This practice can also improve your overall mental and physical health by encouraging better sleep habits. Moreover, creating a dedicated gaming area outside the bedroom can enhance your gaming experience and help you maintain a balanced lifestyle.
3. Ask Friends and Family for Help
Let your friends and family in your life know you’re concerned about developing a gaming addiction and are trying to cut back. If that seems too personal, just let people know you’re interested in doing more social activities. Set up a time to hang out with friends, go for hikes or bike rides, or attend school events.
It’s important to communicate your intentions so they can support you in your efforts. Additionally, exploring new hobbies or joining clubs can provide alternative ways to spend your time and meet new people.
4. Try Other Stress-Relieving Activities
Gaming relieves stress for many people. Developing other coping strategies will make it easier to limit game time. Learn how to meditate or do yoga. Try working out or going for a challenging hike. Creative expression is also a stress buster.
Draw, paint, write, play music, or enjoy any other screen-free hobby. Engaging in these activities can provide a much-needed mental break from the digital world. Additionally, they can help build resilience and improve overall mental health.
5. Seek Gaming Addiction Treatment
If you’ve tried the above suggestions and still find it difficult to control your behavior, you may need help from trained mental health professionals. At Foothills at Red Oak Recovery®, we tailor our services to the needs of boys struggling with gaming addiction. Treatments at our center include:
Individual therapy
Family therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Equine-assisted therapy
Getting help for gaming addiction as soon as possible can prevent it from taking over your or your teen’s life. If you notice any of the warning signs in your child, don’t hesitate to seek help.
Disclaimer:
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