What to Look for in Video Game Addiction Treatment Centers

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Video game addiction has caused deadly consequences around the world in the past ten years and yet, many treatment professionals are still unwilling to accept that there is a true addiction to blame. According a study by Iowa State University, an estimated 1 in 10 youth gamers have video game addiction. When video game addiction interferes with routines and behaviors, video game addiction treatment may be the most viable and safe solution.

Types of Treatment

Before you can choose appropriate treatment for a video game addiction you must consider the methods of treatment that are available. Most of the time, one of the following techniques is used to provide therapeutic care for those suffering from an addiction to video games:

CBT works to change the behaviors of the individual in response to thought processes. Trust building can help those who are socially uncomfortable to develop new relationships that can reduce the solace found in video games. Support groups offer peer support that aids in continued abstinence and can include social involvement that helps to reduce video game use. Wilderness retreats off removal from technology so that video game addicts can learn how to have fun without the game.

What You Should Know

When choosing treatment for yourself or someone you love, it’s important to seek help that is going to be most conducive to their needs. If you have a teen who is addicted to video games, consider seeking a treatment program that provides individual treatment to teens specifically. This can ensure that the child receives targeted care that is geared toward the unique needs and values of a teenager (remember, these may be very much different from those experienced by an adult).

Focus on programs that will enhance skills such as:

  • Problem solving
  • Social development
  • Anger management
  • Anxiety control

Talk with the treatment provider about the services that are offered and ask questions that will assist you in choosing the program that’s right for your loved one. You may want to ask:

  • What types of treatment are offered?
  • How is treatment and therapy provided?
  • What is the staff to patient ratio?
  • Has the staff ever treated video game addiction before?
  • How long is the treatment program?
  • What types of support are offered?

These questions should help you to determine a basis of understanding as to what each facility will provide and how they can help you or your loved one overcome this burden. While video game addiction can be difficult to overcome, with the right treatment there is sincere hope for a full recovery.