Video game addition will soon be recognized as a mental health disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO). By 2018, those who find themselves playing too many electronic games could be diagnosed as suffering from "gaming disorder."
According to a beta draft of the 11th International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11), which is a diagnostic tool maintained by WHO, gaming disorder will become an official condition classified under disorders due to addictive behaviors.
The new disorder is characterized as having a tendency to engage in "persistent or recurrent gaming behavior" — whether over the internet or offline — which leads to impaired control over gaming. Those who will be diagnosed with gaming disorder must meet certain criterions, such as prioritizing playing video games over other interests and daily activities.
Those with this condition will find themselves continuing to play video games even if these behaviors already result in negative consequences. These include significant impairments in one's personal, family, social, educational and occupational areas of functioning.
In order for the condition to be diagnosed, these symptoms should be evident for a period of at least 12 months. However, the duration may be shorted if all diagnostic requirements are met and symptoms presented are severe.
The addition of gaming disorder to the ICD-11 seemingly reflects the increasing influence of technology and the significant impact — whether positive or negative — it has on people's daily lives, especially for those living in more advanced nations.
"In a number of countries, the problem has become a significant public health concern," WHO spokesperson Tarik Jašarević told USA Today.
As gaming disorder becomes an officially mental health condition, doctors, health care workers, treatment centers and even insurance companies will be able to use this diagnosis.
The ICD-11 draft has yet to specify preventative measures and treatment options for gaming disorder. WHO's updated diagnostic tool for diseases is expected to be implemented sometime next year.
