According to the most recent International Classification of Diseases report by the World Health Organization, video game addiction is considered as a mental health disorder. The addiction is classified under "disorders due to addictive behaviors."
WHO has yet to release the full report of ICD-11 that includes 6D11 Gaming Disorder. According to the beta draft, "Gaming disorder is characterized by a pattern of persistent or recurrent gaming behavior." The problem covers both online and offline video gaming platforms.
The report also indicates that gaming disorder is present if the individual continues to engage in the activity despite experiencing negative consequences that hinder his or her health and lifestyle.
According to a 2017 survey conducted by Big Fish Games, the average video game player spends 6.5 hours a week playing video games. However, the WHO report indicates that people who are addicted to video games spend many hours per day and that it affects other essential life interests.
"The gaming behavior and other features are normally evident over a period of at least 12 months in order for a diagnosis to be assigned, although the required duration may be shortened if all diagnostic requirements are met and symptoms are severe," the report reads.
According to Psychguides, video game addiction has two sets of symptoms: emotional and physical. The emotional bracket includes isolation from the outside world, dishonesty about how long an individual spent video gaming, and the feeling of irritability when one cannot engage in the activity. Physical symptoms include fatigue, eye strains, migraines, carpal tunnel syndrome, and poor personal hygiene.
Many medical experts and social advocates are urging parents and guardians to look after their young ones when diving into the activity of video gaming regardless of what electronic medium or console they use.
Video game addiction is not the only issue the industry is currently facing. A few video games are being criticized for their loot boxes function that is being considered as gambling by authorities.
