Excessive Video Gaming

Video games can be a fun and engaging hobby, but sometimes the line between enjoyment and excessive use can blur.

Recognizing the Signs of Problematic Gaming:

  • Daily Life Disruption: Does gaming significantly cut into the time spent on studies, work, chores, or socializing? Has overall mood or well-being suffered due to the amount of time spent playing?
  • Dominating Thoughts and Actions: Do you find yourself constantly thinking about video games, even when not playing? Do you prioritize gaming over other activities, or spend most of your free time playing or planning your next gaming session?
  • Secrecy and Withdrawal: Are you secretive about the amount of time you spend gaming? Do you experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability or depression when you can't play?
  • Coping Mechanism: Do you rely on video games to escape from stress, negative emotions, or difficult situations?
  • Loss of Control: Have you tried and failed to cut back on gaming or set time limits? Do you struggle to stop playing even when you know it's negatively impacting your life?

Relatable? Let’s chat!

Make a Game Plan, Therapy Can Help!

As a therapist for kids and teens in NYC, I've seen firsthand how video games can become an overwhelming presence. I help young people develop healthy gaming habits and find alternative ways to manage stress, connect with others, and cope with difficult emotions. Whether they're struggling to prioritize other activities, feeling isolated due to excessive gaming, or experiencing withdrawal symptoms, I offer evidence-based strategies to empower them to reclaim control and build a more balanced life.
  • Develop Healthy Habits: The idea is moderation — focusing on developing positive habits around gaming, promoting self-regulation and responsible use, not a complete elimination of the activity. As such, we will work towards learning strategies for balanced screen time, allowing space for the to pursuit of other interests and responsibilities.
  • (Re)prioritize Real-World Connections: Therapy fosters the development of social skills and strengthens real-world relationships
  • Manage Urges: Explore the reasons behind excessive gaming and develop healthy coping mechanisms to manage urges.
  • Improve Focus and Concentration: Therapy techniques can enhance focus and concentration, leading to better performance in school and daily activities.
  • Explore Underlying Issues: Sometimes, excessive gaming can be a symptom of deeper emotional concerns. Therapy can help identify and address these underlying issues.