The first signs of gaming addiction
Introduction
The early stage of gaming addiction goes unnoticed, but timely recognition of the first symptoms avoids serious consequences. Here, key signs - from lifestyle shifts to emotional and financial cues - that indicate a need to take action are collected.
1. Behavioral changes
1. Increased game time
Gradual increase in the duration of sessions and the number of visits to the platform.
The habit of "going for a couple of minutes" turns into hours of continuous play.
2. Neglect of duty
Being late for work, skipping school or meetings for the sake of bets.
Abandoned hobbies, reduced activity in the family and among friends.
3. Secrecy and deception
Concealing the costs of the game, lying explanations about "where the whole evening was."
Temporary accounts or using other people's cards to hide transactions.
2. Emotional cues
1. Feeling anxious and irritable
Intolerance to interruptions during the game, irritation with low Internet speed or calls.
Increased anxiety in the absence of access to the platform.
2. Obsession with 'taking revenge' on losing
Constant thoughts about a new bet, phrases like "another round - and I'll get it back."
Inability to switch to other topics, even when talking with loved ones.
3. Euphoria just from winning
The mood changes dramatically from winning - then there is a decline, provoking a new session.
3. Financial indicators
1. Unforeseen expenses and budget overruns
Using credit cards, microloans or advances for bets.
Multiple replenishment of the balance immediately after zeroing funds.
2. Hidden transactions
Delete browser history, hide SMS notifications from the bank.
Transfers to "gift cards" or prepaid vouchers to top up your account.
3. Failure to stop when losing
Attempts to "catch up" with previous losses through increased rates, which exacerbates the financial burden.
4. Social implications
1. Isolation and reduction of social circle
Refusal of meetings, walks and communication in favor of virtual leisure.
Conflicts with loved ones due to unwillingness to discuss the problem.
2. Deteriorating family relationships
Loss of trust, scandals on the basis of debts and hidden expenses.
Growing claims of a partner or parents about failure to fulfill family duties.
5. Introspective features
1. Guilt and shame
The constant feeling of "I'm already multifaceted," but the continuation of the game for fear of abandoning.
2. Reduced self-esteem
Belief in the inability to control rates and the feeling of the futility of trying to stop.
6. First Steps When Detecting Characteristics
1. Journaling: Record dates, times, bet amounts and your feelings before and after the session.
2. Limits on the platform: immediately set strict deposit and time limits.
3. Open conversation: share observations with a loved one or contact the support service - Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858).
4. Self-exclusion: use the "Self-Exclusion" function for 1-6 months.
5. Professional help: with repeated signals, make an appointment for a consultation with a psychologist or in the Gamblers Anonymous group.
Conclusion
The first signs of gaming addiction are manifested in changes in behavior, emotions and financial condition. Timely fixation of symptoms and the introduction of simple control measures make it possible to stop the development of pathology at an early stage and preserve health, relationships and stability.
The early stage of gaming addiction goes unnoticed, but timely recognition of the first symptoms avoids serious consequences. Here, key signs - from lifestyle shifts to emotional and financial cues - that indicate a need to take action are collected.
1. Behavioral changes
1. Increased game time
Gradual increase in the duration of sessions and the number of visits to the platform.
The habit of "going for a couple of minutes" turns into hours of continuous play.
2. Neglect of duty
Being late for work, skipping school or meetings for the sake of bets.
Abandoned hobbies, reduced activity in the family and among friends.
3. Secrecy and deception
Concealing the costs of the game, lying explanations about "where the whole evening was."
Temporary accounts or using other people's cards to hide transactions.
2. Emotional cues
1. Feeling anxious and irritable
Intolerance to interruptions during the game, irritation with low Internet speed or calls.
Increased anxiety in the absence of access to the platform.
2. Obsession with 'taking revenge' on losing
Constant thoughts about a new bet, phrases like "another round - and I'll get it back."
Inability to switch to other topics, even when talking with loved ones.
3. Euphoria just from winning
The mood changes dramatically from winning - then there is a decline, provoking a new session.
3. Financial indicators
1. Unforeseen expenses and budget overruns
Using credit cards, microloans or advances for bets.
Multiple replenishment of the balance immediately after zeroing funds.
2. Hidden transactions
Delete browser history, hide SMS notifications from the bank.
Transfers to "gift cards" or prepaid vouchers to top up your account.
3. Failure to stop when losing
Attempts to "catch up" with previous losses through increased rates, which exacerbates the financial burden.
4. Social implications
1. Isolation and reduction of social circle
Refusal of meetings, walks and communication in favor of virtual leisure.
Conflicts with loved ones due to unwillingness to discuss the problem.
2. Deteriorating family relationships
Loss of trust, scandals on the basis of debts and hidden expenses.
Growing claims of a partner or parents about failure to fulfill family duties.
5. Introspective features
1. Guilt and shame
The constant feeling of "I'm already multifaceted," but the continuation of the game for fear of abandoning.
2. Reduced self-esteem
Belief in the inability to control rates and the feeling of the futility of trying to stop.
6. First Steps When Detecting Characteristics
1. Journaling: Record dates, times, bet amounts and your feelings before and after the session.
2. Limits on the platform: immediately set strict deposit and time limits.
3. Open conversation: share observations with a loved one or contact the support service - Gambling Help Online (1800 858 858).
4. Self-exclusion: use the "Self-Exclusion" function for 1-6 months.
5. Professional help: with repeated signals, make an appointment for a consultation with a psychologist or in the Gamblers Anonymous group.
Conclusion
The first signs of gaming addiction are manifested in changes in behavior, emotions and financial condition. Timely fixation of symptoms and the introduction of simple control measures make it possible to stop the development of pathology at an early stage and preserve health, relationships and stability.
