Video Game Addiction Treatment
Video games have become more than just a form of entertainment; for many, especially young people, they are a central part of daily life. While millions in the UK enjoy video games recreationally, an increasing number are developing serious, life-altering behavioural addictions.
At Asana Lodge, we understand that video game addiction is not simply “too much screen time.” It is a complex psychological condition that can deeply affect a person’s mental health, relationships, academic or professional performance, and overall well-being.
Video game addiction, also known as Internet Gaming Disorder, is characterised by a loss of control over gaming habits, prioritising gaming over essential life responsibilities, and continuing to play despite clear negative consequences. It’s not just an issue for children, teenagers, university students, and adults alike can fall into patterns of compulsive gaming.
Why Internet Gaming Disorder Deserves Serious Attention
At a glance, video gaming may appear harmless, even educational or social. But for a growing number of people, especially adolescents and young adults, the immersive nature of gaming becomes an escape from real-world challenges. Over time, this can interfere with normal emotional development and critical life milestones.
For teenagers, the stakes are especially high. Excessive gaming can interfere with schoolwork, disrupt sleep, and lead to isolation from friends and family. Long-term impacts may include poor academic performance, lack of social development, and reduced job readiness, all of which can limit future opportunities.
Left untreated, video game addiction can mirror other behavioural disorders, such as gambling addiction, with players chasing a “high” from progress or wins. Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, and depression, can occur when access to games is restricted, reinforcing the cycle of dependence.
Gaming and Gambling Dual Diagnosis
Many video games now include add-ons or loot boxes, purchasable items that offer in-game advantages or rewards. While these features can enhance gameplay, they also carry a risk: some players become addicted to buying loot boxes, chasing rare items or stronger characters. This behaviour closely mirrors gambling, only instead of winning money, players are rewarded with in-game content.
The thrill of chance, the hope of a big “win,” and the use of real money all contribute to a cycle that can lead to problematic or addictive behaviour. One survey suggest that a huge 82% of adults who regularly play games have purchased add-ons on what are known as free-to-play games, such as Fortnite or mobile games.
How FIFA and Similar Games Blur the Line:Loot Boxes and Packs = Gambling-Like Mechanics
In FIFA, players can buy “Ultimate Team Packs” with real money or in-game currency. These packs contain random virtual players/items, and you don’t know what you’re getting, a mechanic almost identical to slot machines.
Monetisation Models (Microtransactions)
FIFA allows players to spend real money on points to buy more packs.
Variable Reward Schedules
You don’t always get what you want, which keeps people hooked. This is the same psychological principle that makes gambling so addictive.
Social and Competitive Pressure
In FIFA, having a stronger team gives you a competitive edge.
Treatment for Video Game Addiction at Asana Lodge
At Asana Lodge, we offer specialised residential treatment programmes for video game addiction, grounded in the latest psychological research and therapeutic practices. We recognise that no two individuals experience addiction the same way. For this reason, our treatment plans are highly personalised based on comprehensive clinical assessments.
Our treatment pathway includes:
Pre-Admission Psychological Assessment
We begin with a detailed evaluation of the individual’s gaming habits, mental health history, and the impact of gaming on their life. This allows us to determine the severity of the addiction and design a bespoke treatment plan.
In-Depth Clinical Admission
Upon arrival, our medical and therapeutic team conduct a further assessment to finalise the treatment strategy, ensuring a holistic understanding of both the addiction and any co-occurring mental health conditions.
Evidence-Based Therapies
Treatment typically includes:
Can I Ever Play Again? Understanding Relapse in Gaming Addiction
A common question from those in recovery, and their families, is whether playing video games again constitutes a relapse. The answer isn’t black and white.
Relapse is defined by a return to compulsive and harmful patterns of gaming, not merely playing a game again. For some, moderate gaming in a controlled, time-limited manner may eventually be possible, particularly if their addiction was situational or stress-induced. For others, especially those who used gaming to avoid difficult emotions, abstinence might be necessary to maintain long-term stability.
Our therapists work closely with you to define recovery goals. If reintroducing gaming is considered, it is approached cautiously, often as part of a relapse prevention plan with clearly set boundaries and support systems in place.
Long-Term Recovery: Aftercare and Relapse Prevention
Recovery doesn’t end at discharge. That’s why every client at Asana Lodge benefits from 12 months of free aftercare, including access to ongoing therapy sessions and relapse prevention support.
Our aftercare includes:
These services are vital, especially in the first year post-treatment, when the risk of returning to harmful behaviours is highest.
Secure Video Game Addiction Treatment With Asana Lodge
If you have become addicted to video gaming, and now require video game addiction treatment, at Asana Lodge, we can provide you with just that.
We would advise you to contact us sooner rather than later to ensure that you can commence treatment for your video game addiction as soon as possible.
Although the thought of attending rehab may be disheartening, we guarantee that with our help, you will overcome your addiction once and for all.
If you would like to contact us to find out more about our video game addiction treatment or refer yourself for treatment, please call us on 01908 489 421.
